The Nebraska Golden Owl Award recognizes agricultural educators across Nebraska for their tremendous contributions to helping the next generation of agricultural leaders. Out of many nominations, six finalists were selected. Finalist, Christy Hodges, from the Johnson County Central FFA chapter, takes pride in preparing her students for life beyond high school.
Originally from Chappell, Nebraska, where her dad was her ag teacher, Mrs. Hodges initially wanted to be a veterinarian. However, after serving as a Nebraska FFA State Officer in 1995-96, she realized she enjoyed working with high school students and decided to pursue a career in agricultural education. She is now in her 27th year of teaching.
With an endorsement and a master’s degree in biology, Mrs. Hodges’ classes are rooted in science and its relationship to agriculture. She tries to stay up-to-date on new advances in science and how they affect the agriculture industry.
Because of this strong scientific foundation, Johnson County Central (JCC) FFA has experienced incredible success in the Agriscience Fair. This year alone, they are sending eight individuals to the National FFA Convention. Mrs. Hodges loves how many transferable skills students develop in the Agriscience Fair program.
Another focus of Mrs. Hodges and the JCC FFA chapter is entrepreneurship. There are three businesses in their chapter, including custom farm equipment detailing, freeze-drying, and a recent venture of 41 acres of farmable ground. In these businesses, students learn a wide variety of real-life skills, from marketing to insurance and more. As a result of their entrepreneurial ventures, the JCC FFA program can mostly fund itself and does not have to complete much fundraising.
Some of Mrs. Hodges' favorite memories during her time in agricultural education include trips to National Land Judging in Oklahoma City and National FFA Convention in Indianapolis. To go on those trips, JCC FFA members must qualify for a national competition.
“In our program, nothing is handed to someone,” shared Hodges. “They have to really work hard to be on that (qualifying) team.” Because of this high standard, it’s very rewarding for students to go on those trips, and Mrs. Hodges enjoys watching students experience the fruits of their labor.
“What truly sets Mrs. Hodge apart is her genuine care for her students as individuals,” shared one nominator. “She takes time to listen, mentor, and support students through challenges both academic and personal.”
Mrs. Hodges’ advice to future ag educators is to find your niche. There are so many opportunities in FFA and agricultural education, and you and your students don’t need to be good at everything. Additionally, she would advise new teachers to rely on their community and not to be afraid to ask for and receive help.
Outside the classroom, Mrs. Hodges enjoys gardening, attending the activities of her four children, and spending time with her family. She would like to extend a special thank you to her network of support, including her family, students’ parents, the UNL Engler Program, Southeast Community College, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the Nebraska Corn Board, and the Nebraska Soybean Board.
The Nebraska Golden Owl Award is sponsored by the Nebraska Agriculture Educators Association, the Nebraska FFA Foundation, and Nationwide.
