Peterson named semifinalist for FFA Golden Owl Award

Educators devote limitless time, and often their own resources, to helping students pursue their passions.
To recognize the contributions of Missouri’s leading agricultural teachers, Nationwide, FCS Financial, and the Missouri FFA Foundation are honoring exceptional teachers through the Golden Owl Award® program.
From Sep. 22-Dec. 31, 2025 nominations were collected for the state’s top agricultural teachers from local students, parents, fellow teachers and community members across Missouri. More than 500 nominations were received!
Sarah Peterson an ag education instructor at Mansfield R-IV Schools was selected as one of the semi-finalists for this prestigious program.
Sarah Peterson earned this recognition because of her outstanding dedication to students, commitment to agriculture education, and positive impact on both the community and the agriculture industry.
As a semi-finalist, Sarah Peterson received a $250 prize and Golden Owl swag.
During the next round of the state competition, seven finalists will be chosen.
Each will receive a plaque and a $500 prize. One finalist will be named as Missouri’s Ag Educator of the Year at the Missouri FFA State Convention, earning a $3,000 prize and the coveted Golden Owl Award trophy. 
“Agriculture is one of Missouri’s top industries. Our ag teachers are exceptional at preparing students for that industry”, said Heather Dimitt-Fletcher, executive director of the Missouri FFA Foundation.
“Missouri agricultural education is consistently recognized as one of the country’s top programs. Our teachers are a primary reason for that distinction. One objective of the Missouri FFA Foundation is supporting and honoring our teachers. The Golden Owl Award program helps achieve that objective.”
In 2015, Nationwide established the Golden Owl Award to recognize the contributions of agriculture teachers. “As the need grows for more ag educators across the nation, we are proud to thank and honor these hardworking agricultural teachers for their dedication,” said Brad Liggett, president of Agribusiness at Nationwide. “These educators play a crucial role in preparing students for successful careers in the industry.”
“The future of Missouri agriculture depends on the quality of education our students receive today,” said Rob Guinn, CEO of FCS Financial. “We are honored to support the Golden Owl Award because it recognizes those teachers who go above and beyond to mentor our next generation of rural leaders. Their passion for ag education ensures a strong, sustainable future for our farming communities.”