“Kansas FFA has provided me with essential skills, connections, and opportunities to be able to advocate for the agriculture industry. By providing me with an outlet for my passion and leadership, this organization has set me up for my success. I want to serve this organization to give back and encourage members to see their potential in FFA.”
– Clara Gfeller
Clara Gfeller
2026-2027 State President
HOMETOWN: Chapman, Kansas
PARENTS: Heath and Stephanie Gfeller
CHAPTER: Chapman FFA
SUPERVISED AGRICULTURAL EXPERIENCE (SAE): Diversified Grain Production
COLLEGE & YEAR: Kansas State University, Freshman
MAJOR(S): Agriculture Education
HIGH SCHOOL & OR COLLEGE ACTIVITIES:
Tennis, Morning Announcements, Student Athlete Leadership Team, 4-H, National Honor Society
CAREER GOAL: Agriculture Educator and FFA Advisor
“Kansas FFA and the individuals who support it have allowed me to step outside of my comfort zone, allowing me to become the person I am today. This year, I plan to grow into the individual who can help others see what they don’t see in themselves. I hope to have the very same impact that was able to get me involved and engaged in this wonderful organization.”
– Riley Sturgis
Riley Sturgis
2026-2027 State Vice President
HOMETOWN: Joplin, Missouri
PARENTS: Todd Sturgis
CHAPTER: Riverton FFA
SUPERVISED AGRICULTURAL EXPERIENCE (SAE): Beef Production
COLLEGE & YEAR: Kansas State University, Freshman
MAJOR(S): Food Science
HIGH SCHOOL & OR COLLEGE ACTIVITIES:
Science Club, National Honor Society, Math League
CAREER GOAL: Research and Development Food Scientist
“My father served as an advisor for 31 years, and I grew up watching him help students succeed in the classroom, their SAE programs, and FFA. Inspired by him and other FFA member role models, I began my own FFA journey and gained valuable experience in leadership, competitions, academics, and SAE development. During my year of service, I hope to give back by supporting Kansas FFA members, teachers, and alumni as they work toward their own success.”
– Lizzy Vajnar
Lizzy Vajnar
2026-2027 State Secretary
HOMETOWN: Hays, Kansas
PARENTS: Curt and Mary Ella Vajnar
CHAPTER: Hays FFA
SUPERVISED AGRICULTURAL EXPERIENCE (SAE): Turf Maintenance Placement & Diversified Livestock Production Placement
COLLEGE & YEAR: Kansas State University, Freshman
MAJOR(S): Agricultural & Natural Resources Communications, Minor in Agriculture Sales
HIGH SCHOOL & OR COLLEGE ACTIVITIES:
Yearbook, Quill and Scroll Honor Society, Ellis County 4-H, Hays Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) Leadership Team, DECA, and Chamber Singers
CAREER GOAL: PR Media Manager or Journalist in the agriculture industry
“I joined FFA because I wanted to try something new, and I got hooked. I was inspired to run for state office by previous state officers, and that’s my goal: to be that person for others. I strive to show all members and advisors they each have a place within this incredible organization, and that each person has a voice that matters.”
– Braeden Stutzman
Braeden Stutzman
2026-2027 State Treasurer
HOMETOWN: Inman, Kansas
PARENTS: Hilary Britting, Chad and Amanda Stutzman
CHAPTER: Inman FFA
SUPERVISED AGRICULTURAL EXPERIENCE (SAE): Dairy Production, Turf and Grass Management
COLLEGE & YEAR: Kansas State University, Freshman
MAJOR(S): Agricultural & Natural Resources Communications
HIGH SCHOOL & OR COLLEGE ACTIVITIES:
Football, Golf, Scholars Bowl, Student Council, and Barbecue Club
CAREER GOAL: Lobbyist for any commodity group in Topeka or D.C.
“Kansas FFA has allowed me to put my passion, work, and experience into a FFA journey that has created memories that will last a lifetime. My agriculture foundation with my family and with the FFA is the reason I will strive to be a mentor and an igniter for the younger FFA members throughout this year of service.”
– Ethan Petersilie
Ethan Petersilie
2026-2027 State Reporter
HOMETOWN: Rush Center, Kansas
PARENTS: Jared and Erin Petersilie
CHAPTER: La Crosse FFA
SUPERVISED AGRICULTURAL EXPERIENCE (SAE): Diversified Livestock Production
COLLEGE & YEAR: Hutchinson Community College, Freshman
MAJOR(S): Farm and Ranch Management
HIGH SCHOOL & OR COLLEGE ACTIVITIES:
National Honor Society, Scholars Bowl, STUCCO, Band, Trap
CAREER GOAL: Start my own Spray Drone Business
“I ran for Kansas FFA State Office because my family’s mission statement – To know, love, serve, and obey God, and to love and serve others. This quote inspired me to serve something bigger than myself and make a positive impact on Kansas FFA members.”
– Ella Neher
Ella Neher
2026-2027 State Sentinel
HOMETOWN: Pfeifer, Kansas
PARENTS: Jeff and Jessica Neher
CHAPTER: Hays FFA
SUPERVISED AGRICULTURAL EXPERIENCE (SAE): Goat Production
COLLEGE & YEAR: Hutchinson Community College, Freshman
MAJOR(S): Agriculture Business
HIGH SCHOOL & OR COLLEGE ACTIVITIES:
4-H, Church Youth Group
CAREER GOAL: Work for a Livestock Breed Association