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, Tony Jensen, from the Freeman FFA chapter, prioritizes relationship development and pushing students to grow to their full potential.
Although Mr. Jensen did not come from a traditional agricultural background, he took an ag class during his freshman year of high school, and it sparked a passion for agricultural education.
He initially declared his major in horticulture when he started college, but after serving as a Nebraska FFA State Officer, he discovered his enjoyment in working with people and helping students grow. This realization led him to pursue a degree in agricultural education. After graduating from college, he accepted a position at Freeman, where he is now completing his 22nd year of teaching.
Freeman FFA members are recognized in their community for their involvement and commitment to giving back. They participate in various activities, such as their community garden and annual color run. Additionally, they are known for their competitiveness in contests and for participating in opportunities that help expand their skills and broaden their perspectives.
What motivates Mr. Jensen to continue being an ag teacher is his students.
“It’s the students that show up every day,” said Jensen. “Just being able to watch their continual growth and development.” He especially enjoys following up with students years after they graduate to see their successes and what they have accomplished.
Mr. Jensen’s favorite part of being an ag teacher and FFA advisor is all the interactions with students during informal moments.
“The opportunities that you get with them outside of school are some of the times when you get to know them the best,” said Jensen. He also loves watching groups of students set goals, work hard, and achieve them. This positive attitude and mindset doesn’t go unnoticed by students.
“His dedication to his students, his passion for agriculture, and the way he makes every lesson connect to real life have shaped not only my experience, but the experiences of so many others,” shared one nominator. “FFA has become the highlight of my high school career, and that is largely because of him.”
Mr. Jensen’s advice for future agricultural teachers is to collaborate.
“Lean on people that are near to you, and don’t be afraid to reach out because I think everyone in the ag education community is willing to help in some capacity,” said Jensen. He also encourages new teachers to have reasonable expectations and not to feel like they must live up to anyone else’s standards.
Outside the classroom, Mr. Jensen enjoys spending time with his family, attending his children’s activities, gardening, running, and the outdoors. Mr. Jensen would like to extend a special thank you to his students, their parents, Freeman community members, the Nebraska FFA Foundation, and Nationwide.
“While agriculture education instructors do not seek recognition, it is certainly appreciated and another reason to be grateful for the support and partnerships for agricultural education locally, in Nebraska, and throughout the country,” shared Jensen.
The Nebraska Golden Owl Award is sponsored by the Nebraska Agriculture Educators Association, the Nebraska FFA Foundation, and Nationwide.
