The Owatonna FFA chapter is preparing for an exciting transition as members recently elected new officers for the upcoming school year while also experiencing changes within the advisor team. Along with selecting student leaders, the chapter is saying goodbye to one advisor, welcoming another into the program, and continuing to work with a familiar face.
Members selected for the officer team will help lead the chapter through activities, events, competitions, and community involvement opportunities throughout the year. The 2025-26 officer team includes President AJ Herget, Vice President Savannah DeMars, 2nd Vice President Kayden Melby, Secretary Shelby Ross, Treasurer Olivia Kubicek, Reporter Halle Anderson, and Sentinel Logan Hebel. Now they pass the torch to the newly slated officers, who include President Olivia Kubicek, Vice President AJ Herget, Secretary Shelby Ross, Treasurer Halle Anderson, Reporter Sophia Hunt, and Sentinel Aliah Fischer. These students will take on leadership responsibilities and help guide chapter members throughout the 2026-27 school year.
FFA officers play an important role within the organization by leading meetings, organizing activities, encouraging member involvement, and representing the chapter both within the school and the community. The officer team will work closely with chapter advisors to help continue traditions while introducing new ideas and goals for the future.
As the school year comes to an end, the chapter will be saying goodbye to the graduating seniors. Many of these members have spent years participating in FFA activities, competitions, leadership opportunities, and community events. Their involvement and dedication have helped shape the chapter and set examples for younger members. The seniors saying goodbye this year include Aubree Coulter, Kayden Melby, Logan Hebel, Macie Cady, and Savannah DeMars. While they prepare to begin new chapters in their lives, their contributions and impact on the organization will continue to be remembered by both students and advisors.
In addition to student leadership changes, the FFA chapter will also see changes among the advisors. After years of dedication and service, Marvin Spindler will be retiring from the program. During his time as an advisor, he helped shape the chapter and impacted many students through agricultural education and leadership opportunities, along with his many stories.
The changes in both student and advisor leadership have brought a mix of emotions among members. While students are excited about the opportunities and ideas that new leaders may bring, many are also reflecting on the impact and memories created by Mr. Spindler.
“After more than 20 years of dedicated service to our students and agriculture program, we would like to congratulate Assistant FFA Advisor Marvin Spindler on his retirement. Marvin’s commitment, leadership, and passion for agricultural education have made a lasting impact on countless FFA members and our community,” said Mrs. Tinaglia. “We are also excited to announce that Missy Koch will be joining our program as the new Assistant FFA Advisor. Missy brings valuable experience in FFA and agriculture, and we look forward to the knowledge, enthusiasm, and leadership she will bring to our students and chapter.”
Stepping into the advisor role will be Missy Koch, who will join the program and help continue supporting students and chapter activities. Mrs.Tinaglia will also remain with the chapter, providing experience and continuity as students and staff enter a new year together.
“Starting this upcoming school year, I am thrilled to step into my role with our Owatonna FFA chapter! I am eager to continue supporting the connection between our chapter and our local agricultural partners.” Mrs. Missy Koch stated, proceeding to say, “I look forward to supporting students as they launch their SAE projects and dive into CDE competitions, helping them build skills that last a lifetime.”
As the chapter prepares for the next school year, members are looking forward to new leadership and opportunities ahead. While one chapter of FFA leadership is coming to an end, another is beginning, continuing the growth and traditions that make the organization successful.
FFA is not a club for just farmers. If you like flowers, animals like dogs, cats, birds, and all different farm animals, if you have a passion for mechanical work, or just want to give back to the community, stop in and talk to anyone on the officer team or an advisor, and FFA will have a spot for you.
