Image courtesy FFA

Melissa Bertz, agricultural education teacher and FFA Advisor at Prairie View High School in the East Central FFA District, was honored with the 2025 Kansas State Golden Owl Award at the 97th Kansas FFA Convention, held May 28–30 at Kansas State University, according to a news release.

Bertz brings 40 years of teaching experience, including the past seven at Prairie View. Throughout her career, she has mentored ten students who went on to become educators, including agricultural education teachers. Her guidance has helped students earn FFA Degrees, Proficiency Awards, and leadership roles at both state and national levels, along with national chapter award recognition.

Bertz is known for her dedication to building a strong foundation of agricultural knowledge while inspiring a lifelong passion for learning and problem-solving in her students.

Established by Nationwide, the Golden Owl Award honors the hard work of agricultural educators and provides additional resources to enhance their programs. This year, the award program is recognizing exceptional ag educators in 13 states, including Kansas.

Regional winners included: Emma Lehmann, Neodesha High School – Southeast District; Elissa Mullinix, Manhattan High School – North Central District; Steve Buss, Jefferson West High School – Northeast District; Lauren VanAllen, Clearwater High School – South Central District; Kelly Sipes, Stanton County High School – Southwest District; and Janet Gottstine, Logan High School – Northwest District.