Kansas FFA
MANHATTAN, Kansas — Hays FFA member Ella Neher was elected to serve the Kansas FFA as State Sentinel for the 2026-2027 year during the seventh session of the 98th Kansas FFA State Convention on the campus of Kansas State University in Manhattan.
Neher gave her speech as part of the event’s opening session May 27 and election results were announced May 29.
“I believe strong relationships are the foundation of a successful organization,” Neher says. “By understanding their perspectives, I can better serve as a mentor and friend. I want each member to feel valued, supported, and confident serving in their role within FFA. Through my service, I hope to leave the Kansas FFA Association stronger than I found it and make a lasting, meaningful impact on the lives of its members.”
Neher’s FFA experience includes her Supervised Agricultural Experience in Show Goats. She has served several leadership roles, most recently as Chapter President. She has competed in several Career and Leadership Development events, including parliamentary procedure.
Hays FFA member Mary “LIzzy” Vajnar was elected to serve the Kansas FFA as State Secretary for the 2026-2027 year during the seventh session of the 98th Kansas FFA State Convention on the campus of Kansas State University in Manhattan.
Vajnar gave her speech as part of the event’s opening session May 27 and election results were announced May 29.
“I want to be a member-focused leader who encourages FFA members, advisors, and school administrators to be knowledgeable of FFA activities, to reach their full potential, and to provide resources that help FFA members succeed within local schools and in their communities.”
Vajnar says she “will utilize my leadership, collaboration, and communication skills to serve as a state officer who is both proud and humble in representing the Kansas FFA Association, while actively striving to help it grow and innovate.”
Vajnar’s FFA experience includes her Turf Grass Management SAE placement. She has served in several leadership roles, including as the Northwest District President. Vajnar has also competed in several events, and is the 2026 State Star in Agricultural Placement.
Photos may be available upon request, depending on student availability. Go to flickr.com/ksffa for photos or email media@ksffa.org for assistance.
The Kansas FFA Association is a statewide organization of more than 14,300 agricultural education students who are members in 242 chapters in every corner of Kansas. It is part of the National FFA Organization, a national youth organization of 1,042,245 student members preparing for leadership and careers in the science, business, and technology of agriculture, with 9,407 chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Our mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education.
Visit www.ksffa.org for more information.