Versailles, IN — The Indiana FFA Association and the Indiana State Department of Agriculture, in partnership with Nationwide Insurance and Farm Credit Mid-America, have selected eight Indiana FFA agriculture educators as nominees for a Golden Owl Award. Nationwide established the Golden Owl Award to honor teachers and support them with additional resources to assist their continued educational efforts in preparing the next generation for successful agricultural careers. One advisor comes from South Ripley High School, Erin Padgett.
The nominee described Mrs. Padgett as being, “the single-handedly most selfless person they have ever met. She provides guidance, inspiration, and support continuously”.
The eight finalists were awarded $500 and a plaque in recognition of this honor. The selected winner of the Golden Owl award will be announced in June at this year’s Indiana FFA State Convention and will receive $3,000.
Out of 81 nominees the other nominees chosen to move into the finals are :
• Amy Beer, North Wood High School
• Mike Jones, Adams Central High School
• Gabe Nobbe, Connersville High School
• Travis Scherer, Tri-County High School
• Haley Verhaeghe, Tri-County High School
• Tori McCreary, Mooresville High School
• Dale Griffin, Rossville High School
