Deborah Boone is a dedicated educator who believes in helping others understand the value of agricultural education.
That’s why Boone, an associate professor of agricultural and extension education in the West Virginia University Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design, was selected to receive a special VIP citation from the National FFA Organization for making significant contributions to agricultural education.
She was honored during a presentation Fri., Oct. 21, at the 84th National FFA Convention in Indianapolis.
“I am honored and humbled to receive this most prestigious award from the National FFA Organization,” she said. “I also appreciate the nomination by the West Virginia agriculture teachers.”
Boone began her professional career as a 4-H extension agent in Marion County, Ky., with a desire to share with youth the many opportunities available to them through 4-H and agriculture.
Her work as an extension agent led her to pursue a doctorate degree in agricultural education with an extension education focus from The Ohio State University.
She joined the Davis College faculty in 2003 and became actively involved with the West Virginia FFA Association. She has served as the manuscript judge for the Prepared Public Speaking contest at the State Convention, and has also worked closely with many of the state winners to prepare their speeches for the national competition.
Boone also coordinates the WV FFA seventh and eighth grade agriscience career development event, an event designed to promote the growth of knowledge of FFA members within various areas of agriculture.
Boone believes developing agriculture literacy is critical.
“If you eat, wear cotton, wool or silk garments, sit on a wooden chair, lay on a cotton mattress or use a down pillow, you have been touched by agriculture and should thank a farmer,” she said. “We must get all people to stop and think, where would they be without agriculture? Working with future leaders to educate the public is an awesome job and responsibility.”
The National FFA Organization, formerly known as Future Farmers of America, is a national youth organization of over 500,000 student members – all preparing for leadership and careers in the science, business and technology of agriculture. The FFA 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 http://www.ffa.org for more information.
-WVU-
law/10/26/11
CONTACT: Lindsay Willey; Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design
304.293.2394; Lindsay.Willey@mail.wvu.edu
Follow @WVUToday on Twitter.