LINCOLN, NEB. – Hundreds of FFA members and advisors from all over Nebraska gathered in Lincoln this week for the 2026 Nebraska State FFA Convention. During the event, the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation recognized two advisors whose work stands out in their schools and communities with its annual FFA Advisor of the Year award.
This year’s honors went to Jessica Evans of Osmond Community Schools and Jacob Goldfuss of Summerland Public Schools. They were recognized during Thursday’s ceremony, each receiving a plaque and a $1,000 award to benefit their local FFA programs.
Nominated by their students, these teachers were elected for their involvement in the school and community, the way they develop leadership in the classroom, and how they keep students engaged in agriculture.
“The Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation is proud to congratulate Evans and Goldfuss on this well-deserved honor,” said Megahn Schafer, executive director of the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation. “Through their leadership, they’re helping prepare the next generation in agriculture while strengthening their local communities.”
Evans is the FFA Advisor for the Osmond FFA Chapter. Her students gain hands-on experience in production agriculture through a growing school farm made possible by local partnerships, along with access to equipment, industry expertise, and personalized support in the classroom. Over the past 11 years, she has worked tirelessly to build these opportunities, helping students develop skills and confidence that will carry them beyond high school.
“I’m incredibly honored to be recognized, especially alongside so many dedicated advisors across the state,” said Evans. “This really reflects the support of our community and the hard work our students put in every day.”
Goldfuss is the FFA Advisor for the Summerland FFA Chapter. He invests countless hours mentoring students, helping them prepare for competitions, State Degrees, and proficiency applications, while fostering a supportive, team-focused environment. His approachable style and dedication encourage students to challenge themselves, grow together, and succeed both in the classroom and through FFA experiences.
“I’m thankful to be recognized with this award, but it really belongs to our students,” said Goldfuss. “Their hard work, teamwork, and growth every day make our FFA chapter what it is.”
The mission of the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation is to engage youth, educators, and the general public to promote an understanding of the vital importance of agriculture in the lives of all Nebraskans. The Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. For more information about the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation, visit www.nefbfoundation.org.
