Submitted photo The Minnesota FFA Association recently named Sleepy Eye Public School Ag Teacher/FFA Advisor Mary Hoffmann as its new executive director.

SLEEPY EYE — The Minnesota FFA Association recently named Sleepy Eye Public School ag teacher/FFA Advisor Mary Hoffmann as its executive director.

Hoffmann has taught ag education in Sleepy Eye for 19 years, has 30 years ag education experience and has held a number of national, state, regional and local leadership positions

She will assume the FFA Association job Aug. 18.

“We are excited about the future of Minnesota FFA under her guidance. Hoffmann brings immense passion and leadership to our organization,” said Minnesota FFA Association Adult Board Chairwoman Abbie Savage. “As the new executive director, Hoffmann is eager to guide and grow Minnesota FFA and support our state’s FFA advisors. Her vision and passion will be invaluable as we continue to empower the next generation of leaders in agriculture.”

Hoffmann said she will remain in Sleepy Eye, work remotely an attend all meetings and events across Minnesota and the nation.

“I’ll move into an FFA alumni and supporters role to help continue the great work of the Sleepy Eye Ag program including the FFA chapter,” she said. “Having been an FFA advisor for the past 30 years, I’ve seen countless FFA members grow as people, gain career skills, develop into leaders and serve their communities. I really look forward to working with FFA chapters and members across the state to bring life-changing opportunities to Minnesota FFA members.”

Hoffmann received the Minnesota Association of Agricultural Educators Outstanding Service Award at the annual Minnesota Association of Agricultural Educators Conference July 8-11 in Hinckley.

Two former students of Hoffmann, Harley Braun and Elizabeth Rupp, received awards for teaching for five and ten years respectively at St. Paul Highland Park and Tracy Area Schools.

“It is definitely an honor and amazing to have former students go into the same profession and see them excel,” said Hoffmann. McKEnzie Wagelie is also a former student of Hoffmann now teaching agriculture at Granada Huntley East Chain High School.

In April at the state FFA convention, the Sleepy Eye FFA was named the top Land of Service and Ag Literacy Challenge Chapter in Minnesota, was named Minnesota Premier Chapter Runner-up for the national chapter award.

“I am truly impressed with all the hard work Sleepy Eye FFA members show daily. Winning the award for Land of Service is probably most rewarding for our chapter as our members do much for Sleepy Eye and surrounding communities to make the world a better place,” said Hoffmann.