Six outstanding agricultural educators across Delaware have been selected as finalists for the prestigious Golden Owl Award, a recognition program celebrating excellence in agricultural education.
The Delaware FFA, Delaware Farm Bureau, and Nationwide Insurance announced the finalists after collecting nominations throughout October 2025 from students, parents, fellow educators, and community members statewide.
This year’s finalists include Mark Breeding from Caesar Rodney High School, Holly Hufford from Smyrna Middle School, Lauren Ruskey from Caesar Rodney High School, Karen Breeding from Woodbridge High School, Stefane Freimuth from Smyrna Middle School, and Kellie Michaud from Smyrna High School.
Each educator received a personalized plaque during a ceremony attended by colleagues and students, along with a $500 grant to enhance their educational programs. The finalists will now advance to the final selection round, where one will be chosen as Delaware’s Agricultural Educator of the Year, earning an additional $3,000 grant from Nationwide and the Golden Owl Award trophy.
“Delaware FFA if proud to honor the educators who dedicate their time, passion, and knowledge to cultivating the next generation of agricultural leaders; creating an impact far beyond the classroom and into the communities they serve,” said Sarah Bell, State FFA Advisor.
The Golden Owl Award program was created by Nationwide to acknowledge teachers’ dedication and provide additional resources for their educational initiatives. This year’s program recognizes exceptional agricultural educators across 15 states, including California, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, and Utah.
Brad Liggett, president of Agribusiness at Nationwide, emphasized the importance of supporting agricultural education. “As the need grows for more ag educators across the nation, we are proud to thank and honor these hardworking agricultural teachers for their dedication,” Liggett stated. “These educators play a crucial role in preparing students for successful careers in the industry.”
Additionally, Nationwide is providing a $5,000 donation to the Delaware FFA to support continued professional development and growth opportunities for students, teachers, and advisors throughout the state.
The Delaware FFA Association serves as a leading youth development organization that prepares students for careers in agriculture, food systems, and natural resources through classroom instruction, supervised agricultural experiences, and practical activities.
