By Kate Cooper, State FFA Vice President

From immersive industry tours to meeting leaders across different regions, August had a little bit of everything!

In June, agricultural educators from across the state came together in San Luis Obispo for the CATA Summer Conference. We proudly congratulate those recognized for their hard work and dedication to their schools, students, and the agricultural education profession!

Outstanding Educators

Outstanding Teacher: Heather Thomas, Colusa HS

Outstanding Young Teacher: Jessica Campbell, Golden West HS

Outstanding Teacher Mentor: Jenny Lynn Oilar Svejda, Red Bluff HS

For decades, these educators and leaders have shaped California agricultural education and inspired generations of students.

The California Agricultural Teachers' Association (CATA) Hall of Fame honors individuals whose exceptional careers have strengthened agricultural education through classroom instruction, teacher preparation, mentorship, and leadership. Their dedication has not only impacted countless students but has also influenced fellow educators and helped build stronger FFA programs across the state.

The California FFA Foundation is pleased to announce a leadership transition within its Board of Directors, welcoming Kristann “Kr

Reflections with the Owl: A Year Like No Other With Jill Sperling

One Creed, Many Voices: California FFA Makes History

GALT, Calif. — The California FFA Foundation, in partnership with Nationwide and the California Farm Bureau, has announced Russell Zimmerman, an agricultural teacher at Nipomo High School, as California’s 2025-2026 “Ag Educator of the Year.”

Q&A with John Tamayo, FFA Alumnus and Relationship Manager at AgWest

What is your role in the agriculture industry, and what led you to this career?

By Dr. Kasey DeAtley, Chico State College of Agriculture

Over my 13-year career as a faculty member in the College of Agriculture at Chico State, I’ve seen college students change in a number of ways. Early in my career, more students came from agricultural backgrounds. Today, many come from urban areas with limited exposure to agriculture. That shift has challenged me to slow down, meet students where they are, and adapt how I teach.

Session Seven, “A New Dawn,” marked a powerful and emotional close to the 2026 California FFA State Leadership Conference.

Chaired by the entire 2025–2026 State FFA Officer Team, the session opened with ceremonies reflecting on a week of growth, connection, and unforgettable moments, while looking ahead to the future of California FFA.