Senator Bill Weber recognized with honorary FFA degree for agricultural work, advocacy

Senator Bill Weber (R-Luverne) was a recipient of an Honorary Minnesota FFA Degree this week at the 2018 Minnesota FFA Association state convention in Minneapolis. The honorary degree recognizes Senator Weber’s rich history of involvement with FFA, as well as his legislative and public contributions toward agricultural education in Minnesota. Each year, the Minnesota FFA Association recognizes the contributions of individuals who have made a significant impact towards the success of the membership and the organization.

L-R: Senator Bill Weber (R-Luverne), MAELC Community Program Assistant Kari Schwab, and MAELC board member Jeremy Daberkow

“I’m tremendously honored to have received this honorary degree from an organization that has benefited thousands of Minnesota students throughout the years—including myself,” said Senator Weber. “My involvement with FFA was the first opportunity I had to become aware of the world off the farm and away from home. The principles of leadership and responsibility have always been a hallmark of the FFA program and remain a valuable part of the program today.”

Senator Bill Weber and Kari Schwab
Senator Bill Weber (R-Luverne) poses with Kari Schwab, his former legislative assistant and current MAELC staff. Both received awards.

As a former FFA member who served as chapter president at Luverne High School, Senator Weber won the FFA creed speaking contest in 1971 and public speaking contest in 1974. During his legislative tenure, Senator Weber has been a strong advocate for agricultural education, serving on various agricultural-related legislative committees as well as a co-chair of the Minnesota Agricultural Education Leadership Council.

“I come from an agricultural background – as do many of my constituents. I know firsthand the importance of agriculture to Minnesota’s wellbeing and it’s an incredible honor to be recognized for that work,” continued Senator Weber. “No organization has a more storied history of encouraging personal growth, career success, and leadership than Minnesota FFA. I’m proud to be associated with such a group.”

Senator Bill Weber is in his second term representing District 22, which includes communities in Cottonwood, Jackson, Lincoln, Lyon, Nobles, Pipestone, Redwood, and Rock counties. He chairs the Senate Agriculture, Rural Development, and Housing Policy Committee.