Congratulations to Mr. Knutson for being a finalist for the 2024-2025 Golden Owl Award.
Presented by Nationwide, South Dakota FFA, and the South Dakota FFA Foundation, this annual award recognizes South Dakota ag educators for their tremendous contributions in preparing the next generation of young people for successful careers in ag.
From October to December, we worked together to ask students, faculty and community members to nominate a deserving teacher.
We are proud to say the award generated 217 nominations for 42 South Dakota Ag teachers.
Following the nomination period, a committee was tasked with selecting the Golden Owl Award finalists, including today’s honoree.
A few of the comments made about Mr. Knutson in the nominations received:
He plays a key role in organizing community service projects, both through our chapter and in his classes and is always open to new ideas and willing to give them a chance, fostering an environment of growth and creativity.
Recognizing the need for additional resources to enhance his students' opportunities, he collaborated with the dairy to create a hands-on project: covering silage piles. Not only did he rally his students to participate, teaching them the value of hard work and collaboration, but he also led by example, working side by side with them from start to finish. With his “boots on the ground” approach, he ensured the project was both a learning experience and a success.
His impact on today’s youth extends far beyond the classroom. By fostering leadership, teamwork, and practical skills, he is preparing students not just for agricultural careers but for lifelong success. He has created an inclusive, inspiring environment where every student feels valued and empowered to contribute to the future of agriculture. This teacher’s tireless dedication to his students and the field of agriculture exemplifies excellence and makes him a deserving recipient of the Golden Owl Award.
Mr. Knutson received a $500 check and an engraved plaque for his outstanding commitment to ag education and is now in the running for the Golden Owl Award grand prize.
One honoree from each of the 13 participating states will be chosen as their state’s grand prize winner based on additional review by each state’s selection committee.
The winner will receive the Golden Owl Award trophy and $3,000 award designed to support continued education efforts.
The South Dakota winner will be announced at the fourth session of the SD State FFA Convention on Saturday, April 5th beginning at 8:00am at the Dacotah Bank Center in Brookings.
Caroline Hansen, the Leadership & Program Manager for the South Dakota FFA Association was here to present Mr. Knutson with the award.
