Ellen Schutt has stepped into a new role as Executive Director of the Wisconsin FFA Foundation. She grew up on her family’s farm in Darien, Wisconsin, where they still raise cattle and crops today.
“I loved FFA growing up,” Schutt said. “I was our chapter Sentinel and also competed in many different events.” After high school, she attended UW-Madison and joined the Collegiate FFA chapter.
However, her career path took a turn toward politics. For seven years, she worked as a legislative staff member, focusing on agriculture and education issues. Later, she served as a state representative for communities in Rock and Walworth Counties.
“Life changes, and I found this new role with the FFA Foundation,” Schutt shared.
Now a few months in, Schutt says the experience has been rewarding. “This agriculture and FFA community is incredibly strong,” she said. “We work together really well.” She’s been meeting with alumni, teachers, as well as team members across ag education.
“We all share the same goal—supporting FFA and today’s students,” she added. That shared mission includes fundraising, which is a core part of her new position.
Schutt knows the economy is uncertain, and that impacts giving. “Everyone’s adjusting their budgets right now,” she said. “But people still believe in the future of FFA.”
Looking ahead, Schutt invites the community to summer fundraisers like the Foundation’s golf outings. The northern event is July 14 in Eau Claire; the southern is July 21 in Middleton. “You don’t have to love golf—just come have fun and support FFA,” Schutt encouraged. There will also be auctions and chances to connect with others who care about ag education.
The biggest event of the year is also coming soon: Wisconsin FFA Convention in Madison. “Nearly 4,000 students will attend,” she said. “We’d love for you to be part of it.”
Schutt emphasized that the Foundation needs more than just checks—it needs people. “We’re always looking for volunteers,” she said. “Help us judge events or just tell your FFA story.”
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