Hey! My name is Jenna Knake. I am a junior at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln majoring in ag education and minoring in Engler Entrepreneurship. I grew up on a small farm outside of Syracuse, Nebraska. The statement about “not being born in a barn but getting there as fast as I could'' definitely applies to me. Growing up showing cattle and horses, I quickly grew a love for the ag industry. In turn, I threw myself into many different roles that allowed me to advocate. FFA, 4-H, and High School Rodeo were some of my favorites throughout high school. Still, the most interesting experience was holding the title of “Nebraska Teen Miss United States Agriculture.” I also enjoyed attending NAYI in both my junior and senior years. These activities allowed me to share my love for agriculture and develop many valuable skills. In Lincoln, I am part of the Sigma Alpha Sorority, Engler Program, Ag Education Club, Rodeo Club, the Ag Sack Lunch Program and of course, NAYC. Outside of being busy with academics and extracurriculars, I love hanging out with friends, playing fetch with my dog Bear, and going to Husker football games. I am so honored to be able to continue advocating for Nebraska agriculture by serving as one of the NAYC Head Counselors for the 2024-2025 year. Feel free to reach out to me with any questions at JennaMKnake@gmail.com.

Hey y'all! I'm Laura Albro, a junior at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln majoring in agronomy with minors in Engler Entrepreneurship and specialty crop production. I'm from Bayard, a small town in western Nebraska. I grew up on a 'storybook' farm where we have sheep, chickens, and a big garden. Although I was super involved on the farm growing up and showed sheep and rabbits at our local county fair, it wasn't until high school that I started to develop a passion for agriculture. I joined FFA and immediately fell in love with it. Through all the competitions, trips, and leadership opportunities, I came to realize how important agriculture is in our world and how much I wanted to be a part of this industry for the rest of my life. This passion grew even more when I attended NAYI and has only grown since serving on NAYC! On campus, I'm involved in the Engler program, the UNL Newman Center, CASNR Coffee Club, the Ag Sack Lunch program as an Ambassador and I’m currently a teaching assistant for an agronomy lab. Some of my other hobbies are reading, baking, and doing anything outdoorsy (skiing, hiking, camping, and hunting)! I'm honored for the opportunity to serve as one of the Head Counselors this year and can't wait to see what we accomplish! Feel free to reach out to me with any questions or concerns you might have at laura.albro12@gmail.com.

Hi there! I’m Kendall Prior, a junior at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. I am currently pursuing a degree in business management with a minor in the Engler Entrepreneurship Program and marketing. I am originally from Imperial, Nebraska. My life growing up has been built around the agriculture industry, as my family owns and operates a family farm and small feedlot. As I have grown up in agriculture, my heart lies within the industry. I showed livestock, specifically sheep and goats, for over a decade, and I wouldn’t trade my experience all those years for anything. Throughout school, I was extremely involved in extracurriculars and sports, but showing livestock and agriculture had a constant tug at my heart. Agriculture, and all of those involved in it, have arguably had the biggest impact on my life thus far and that is why I am here. NAYI was where I discovered my true passion for advocating for agriculture as it gave me a way to show how truly passionate about it, I was myself while being surrounded by individuals of the same mindset. While being on NAYC, I hope to bring the same passion and fire to others who are navigating their path in agriculture. While at the University, I am also an active member of the Engler Entrepreneurship Program as well as the Hope Venture Club. In between activities and school, you can find me hanging out with my favorite people, diving into a good book, or simply existing in this crazy busy college life I live. I am honored to be a part of the Nebraska Agriculture Youth Council! The agriculture industry is my home, so let’s talk about it! Please feel free to reach me at kendallprior1@gmail.com.

Hi everyone! I’m Seth Wert, and I am a junior at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. I am majoring in agricultural education with a minor in agribusiness. I get to call Hordville, Nebraska, my hometown. While I was raised in a small town, I probably spent most of my childhood out on the farm. From a very young age, I would go out to the farm to see the livestock and work. My siblings and I started to show some cattle at a very young age, and a few years after that, we were approached with the idea of showing sheep. We now have our herd of around 50 ewes. Showing livestock started my passion for the agricultural industry but has grown even more through FFA. During my years in FFA, I had the opportunity to hold many different leadership positions which has helped shape me into the person I am today. It is because of the amazing agricultural education teachers, that I have chosen to make agricultural education my major. They had such a huge impact on my life, and I hope that I can do the same for other generations of students. Outside of NAYC, I am involved with FFA Alumni Club, ALEC Teacher Prep Club, NHRI Leadership, and Alpha Gamma Sigma Fraternity. I am so grateful and can’t wait for this amazing opportunity on Council! I love sharing my passion for the ag industry so please feel free to reach me at sethwert1102@gmail.com.

Hi there! My name is Carleigh Tietz, and I am a sophomore at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. I am majoring in agribusiness with a minor in agricultural and environmental sciences communication. I grew up in Norfolk, Nebraska, around many of my closest friends and family and was involved in every sport and activity there was to offer at a young age. In high school, I grew to love the time I spent in FFA and 4-H as they encompassed my passions for agriculture and leadership. I love to spend time with my family and friends, ride my horse, play with my dogs, read, and get coffee at any time of day! I have found a deeper love for agriculture through the world of communications and have recently started my own photography business. I cannot wait to spend another year with the other amazing members of the NAYC as we share our passion and drive for agriculture! Please reach out with any questions. My email is carleigh.tietz16@gmail.com.

Hello! My name is Alex Boudreau, and I am currently a sophomore at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln pursuing a bachelor's degree in applied science and a minor in Engler Entrepreneurship. I was raised on a family farm thirty minutes south of Minden, Nebraska, where we raise cattle and farm corn and soybeans. Living on a farm I was taught the values of teamwork, work ethic, and discipline. I attended Minden high school, where I was involved heavily in FFA, National Honor Society, cross country, basketball, and many other activities. My freshman year at UNL I served as the 2023-2034 State FFA Secretary and had many great experiences and made connections across the state. On campus, this year, I am involved in NAYC, Alpha Gamma Sigma Fraternity, Engler Entrepreneurial Program, the Young Nebraska Cattlemen Association, Men’s Initiative, and CASNR Coffee Club. In my free time, I enjoy working on the farm and running an outdoor media page. I truly enjoyed my experience attending NAYI put on by NAYC, and I can’t wait to create that same opportunity for others! If you have any questions, feel free to email me at aboudrea2023@gmail.com.

Hello! My name is Alexa Carter. I am a sophomore studying agricultural communication with minors in the Engler Agribusiness Entrepreneurship Program and animal science. I grew up outside of Rising City, Nebraska, on my family's row-crop and cow-calf operation. Through middle school and high school, I participated in 4-H and FFA. I showed cattle and swine and even started my own Simmental herd through my Supervised Agriculture Experience for FFA. I loved getting the opportunity through FFA to compete in ag demo and livestock judging at the state level. Here on campus, I am involved in CASNR Change Makers, Block & Bridle club, the Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow club, SALT, the UNL Newman Center, I am on the Recruitment team for the Engler Program, and most recently, NAYC. Along with those, I also own my own business, Rising Rolls Baking Company, LLC, where I sell cinnamon rolls and chili filled cinnamon rolls. I attended NAYI once in high school and I learned so much about the importance of advocating for our agriculture industries. I am beyond grateful to serve on NAYC this year and if you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me at carterjalexa@gmail.com.

Hey there! I am Libby Macklin, a freshman at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Currently, I am majoring in agricultural and environmental sciences communication and minoring in the Engler Entrepreneurship Program. This path beautifully combines my passion for agriculture and my love for creative freedom! My passion for agriculture lies deep in the roots of my small hometown: Blue Hill, Nebraska. I grew up as the oldest of five daughters on an acreage by my grandparents' farm. Throughout my youth, I was heavily involved in 4-H and FFA, showing horses, rabbits, dogs, and poultry. I served as the 2024 Webster Country Rodeo Queen and love promoting the sport of rodeo! Beekeeping is another passion of mine that has developed into a business over the past couple of years. Starting as an entrepreneurship Supervised Agricultural Experience in FFA, my business (LiBee’s Honey) has expanded to four productive hives of honeybees. I love learning about unique niches of agriculture, like beekeeping, as well as sharing these ideas with others through engaging conversations. I’ve come to love agriculture with all my heart and truly believe there is a place for everyone in this field! Now that I am in college, I am a member of the Sigma Alpha sorority, involved in the UNL Honors Program, active in the University Lutheran Chapel, and so excited to serve on the Nebraska Agricultural Youth Council! If you have any questions for me, please feel free to reach out; I would love to chat! My email is libbymacklin12@gmail.com.

Hello! My name is Brie Bruns, I am currently a sophomore at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln studying agribusiness. I grew up in Pender, Nebraska. In high school I was involved in student council, volleyball, and D-league volleyball. I was also an active member in our FFA chapter attending state FFA three times and qualifying for National FFA convention in CCM. Throughout high school, I worked at our family restaurant, Popo’s, where we serve beef from our feedlots making our business farm to table. Growing up in town my exposure to agriculture came from our family farms north of town and our FFA program. I attended NAYI my junior and senior years of high school where I made import connections and ultimately decided to take my career path into agriculture. In college I am currently involved in Chi Omega Sorority, Engler Entrepreneur Program, and NAYC. I am so grateful to be on the Nebraska Agriculture Youth Council, and excited to help others find their place in agriculture the way it helped me find mine. If you have any questions, you can reach me at briebruns@gmail.com.

Hey y'all! My name is Austin Kamm, and I am a freshman at the University of Nebraska - Lincoln majoring in agronomy with a minor in Engler Entrepreneurship. I am originally from Lincoln; however, I spend a lot of my time in Wisner, Nebraska, where I help run and maintain our family’s small ranch focusing on cow/calf pairs, meat goats and hay production. I was heavily involved in 4-H, showing livestock and static exhibits, and represented Nebraska at the National 4-H Congress. I was also involved in FFA, where I served as a chapter officer. As part of my FFA SAE project, I built a greenhouse and sell flowers in the spring. I have always had a passion for agriculture since I was young, and I want to help make a difference by reaching out to those who may not understand the importance of agriculture, or just want to learn more about it. When I'm not in the classroom, I enjoy fishing, tractor restoration, working on the ranch and creating farm scene replicas. On campus, I am active in the UNL Agronomy Club, Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity, the Engler Program as well as the NAYC. I look forward to serving alongside my fellow Council members this year! Feel free to reach out to me at austindkamm@gmail.com.

Hey everyone! I am Emily Holz, a freshman at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. I am majoring in agricultural and environmental sciences communications with a minor in the Engler Agribusiness Entrepreneurship Program. I was born and raised in Syracuse, Nebraska, and was involved in every extracurricular I could get my hands on including softball, track & field, FFA, and 4-H! I grew up competing in 4-H, but in the summer following 7th grade, I was given the opportunity to raise and show pigs at a family-friend’s farm. From then on, I was involved in FFA in full force, competing in as many events as possible and serving on my chapter's officer team. There, I quickly developed my passion for advocating for agriculture and portraying its true importance to younger individuals. I attended NAYI following my junior year of high school and quickly discovered my future career path in agricultural communications. On campus, I am involved with the Nebraska Agricultural Youth Council, the Engler Entrepreneurial Program, and the UNL Newman Center. I love to spend time with my family, friends, and dog, staying active (lifting, running, and being outdoors), and try all the cute local coffee shops. I am grateful to be a part of the Nebraska Agricultural Youth Council and ecstatic to share the importance of agriculture with future industry leaders. Feel free to reach out to me with any questions at holzemily05@gmail.com.

Hey there! My name is Abigail Hodges, and I am studying agriculture education and minoring in the Engler Entrepreneurship program at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln! Originally, I am from a small farrow to finish Berkshire hog operation in Southeast Nebraska, near Nebraska City. With my father, Michael Hodges, full time on the farm, and my mother, Christy Hodges, teaching agriculture education at Johnson County Central, you could say my agriculture roots run deep! In high school, I loved everything FFA and 4-H related, from showing hogs to public speaking, and even baking! This even inspired me to start my own business, Hodges Cookies, where I make custom decorated sugar cookies. One of my favorite parts of high school was summer, because that meant it was time for NAYI! I was blessed to be able to attend this conference twice and have met many friends through NAYI. These friends are the wonderful people I get to work with in everything I’m involved in on campus, such as Engler, SALT company, Sigma Alpha, and the ALEC teacher prep club. Ultimately, I am so excited for the opportunity to serve alongside these great people on NAYC, and I’m looking forward to helping students find their place in agriculture, while finding my own! Please reach out if you need anything. I’ve never met a stranger and will probably talk your ear off! The best way to do so is through email at abby.hodges35@gmail.com.

Hello! My name is Levi Schiller, and I am currently a junior at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln pursuing a bachelor's degree in ag business with minors in Engler Entrepreneurship and agronomy. I was raised on a family farm outside of Scribner, Nebraska, where we row-crop farm corn and soybeans. Living on a farm I was taught the values of hard work, self-discipline, and respect for others. I grew up participating in 4-H and FFA showing livestock and exhibiting numerous other static exhibits. On campus I am involved in the Commodity marketing club, Agronomy club, Mechanized system club, and Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity. I also served as NAYC Head Counselor for 2023-2024. I greatly enjoyed my experience attending the NAYI and I look forward to creating that same opportunity for so many more! If you have any questions, feel free to email me at lschiller2022@gmail.com.

Hi! I’m Evan Svanda, a junior at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. I am an agricultural systems technology major also pursuing minors in agribusiness and agronomy. I grew up in Nehawka, Nebraska, where my family owned and operated an organic Aronia Berry farm. My passion for the agriculture industry grew throughout FFA in high school and through working for a local farmer raising corn and soybeans, as well as managing a cow-calf herd. I attended many camps and conferences that expanded my leadership skills and knowledge of the industry including NAYI. I attended NAYI as a delegate for one year and am excited to serve my third year as a Council member at NAYI this summer! I hope to spread my passion for agriculture and inspire the delegates to find a career in the agriculture industry. I am also a member of Alpha Gamma Sigma Fraternity and am involved in other campus organizations such as Collegiate Farm Bureau and Young Nebraska Cattleman’s Affiliate. In my free time, I like hunting, fishing, riding dirt bikes, and spending time with friends and family. Please feel free to contact me any time at esvanda2200@gmail.com.

Hey! I am Cora Hoffschneider, a freshman at the University of Nebraska- Lincoln. I am majoring in Agribusiness with the banking and finance option and minoring in the Engler Agribusiness Entrepreneurship Program. Growing up in rural Waco, Nebraska, on a family row-crop farm, my passion for agriculture sprouted at a very young age, leading me to attend UNL and further my knowledge in agriculture. During high school, I was active in nearly all the clubs and groups possible, but the one that has made the biggest impact on my future today is FFA. Through FFA, I was involved in many contests, served as an officer, and was very committed to my SAE where I sold live Christmas trees and wreaths. I have learned that the connections made through programs like FFA, NAYI, and other like opportunities, will stay with you for a lifetime. Currently, here at UNL, I am involved in the Chi Omega Sorority, the Engler Community, UNL Collegiate Farm Bureau, and NAYC. I am so honored to be a member of NAYC and look forward to all this year has in store. NAYI was the best part of my summer the past two years, and I can't wait to help share this experience with so many young agriculturists! If you have any questions, feel free to reach me at cghoff2006@gmail.com.

Hi! I’m Morgan Bonifas. I am currently a freshman at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln double-majoring in agriculture communications and agribusiness and minoring in the Engler Entrepreneurship Program. I was born and raised on a farm outside of Aurora, Nebraska, where I had my own sheep herd. I loved being a part of the livestock industry and have met some of the most impactful people in my life through showing. I’ve always had a deep passion for the agriculture industry, but that passion was heightened throughout high school, when I was able to write multiple different speeches through FFA. My passion for advocating for the agriculture industry began when I was able to first attend NAYI after my junior year of high school. This passion has continued to deepen and led me to majoring in agriculture communications, so I can share the story of agriculture. This is my first year serving on NAYC. On campus you can find me at the Newman Center and involved in the Engler Program. I am also the proud owner of Kountry Kids Pumpkins and Morgan’s Mums and More! Outside of school, I love to hang out with friends, spend time with my animals, and bake. I am extremely honored to have the opportunity to serve on NAYC this year and can’t wait to see all that we are able to do. Feel free to reach out to me with any questions or concerns you may have at morgan.bonifas@gmail.com.

Hi! My name is Caleb Most, and I am a sophomore at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. I'm studying agricultural education with minors in Spanish and Engler Entrepreneurship. Outside of NAYC, I'm involved in the ALEC Teacher Preparation Club, Engler Program, and University Lutheran Chapel. I'm originally from Ogallala, Nebraska, where I was raised on my family's farm and ranch. Growing up in and working on an agricultural operation instilled a passion in me for the agriculture industry. As a kid, I participated in 4-H showing livestock and entering static projects. In high school, I was an active member of the Ogallala FFA Chapter, where I served as an officer, competed in leadership and career development events, and created a honey business. These experiences further developed my appreciation for the agriculture industry and helped me to select my major in agricultural education. I had amazing experiences at NAYI, and I can't wait to help create the opportunity for more students to attend this great event! If you have any questions at all, please reach out to me at calebd.most@gmail.com.

Greetings, I am Carson Mau, a first-year student enrolled at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. I am pursuing a degree in agricultural education and a minor in Engler Entrepreneurship. Outside of my academic studies you can find me in my hometown of Sutton, Nebraska, where I’m the owner of Prime Lawn Service, a business I created as my FFA Supervised Agriculture Experience. While enrolled at UNL, I am involved in my church ministry, as well as the ALEC Teacher Prep Club. In my free time, I love to sing, and was even fortunate enough to hold two lead roles in our high school musicals. I am very excited to serve on the Nebraska Ag Youth Council this year and look forward for the opportunity to be an advocate for Nebraska's number one industry!

Hey, everyone! My name is Braydon Binger, and I am a sophomore at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. I am majoring in agronomy with minors in the Engler Entrepreneurship Program and agribusiness. I grew up in Hay Springs, Nebraska, on our family farm where we raise cattle and sheep, as well as corn, wheat, and forage crops. Growing up I always carried a great sense of pride on the farm. There was nothing I enjoyed more than the fast paced, yet fulfilling, agricultural lifestyle alongside my family. As I grew older and took on more responsibilities, I began to get very involved in FFA and other leadership opportunities. This led me to discover my two greatest passions, people and agriculture. Being able to leave an impact on those around me as well as advocate for the importance of agriculture will always be very important to me. I came to NAYI for the first time as a senior unsure of what to expect, and it turned into being one of the most memorable weeks of my summer. Here on campus, I am involved in the Alpha Gamma Sigma fraternity, Crops Judging team, Agronomy club, Engler, and I’m excited to serve as an NAYC member this year! I look forward to putting on another great NAYI this next summer and cannot wait to meet so many people along the way. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or would like to talk, my email is braydon.binger@yahoo.com.

Hi there! I am Demi Lapaseotes, and I am from Bridgeport, Nebraska (way out west). I’m currently a freshman at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln pursuing a degree in ag communications with a minor in Engler Entrepreneurship. I am active in several organizations such as Sigma Alpha Sorority, Engler Program, and NAYC. The agricultural industry has always been an influential part of my life. My family owns and operates a farming and feedlot operation. My love for agriculture ignited at a very young age when I would ride in the feed truck with my dad, and I had bottle calves. From this young age, I knew that I would be the next generation of my family business. It has always been my biggest passion to be a part of this industry. I own and operate my own cattle business - DJL Cattle Co., and I love meeting new leaders and talking to people about it. The beef industry holds a special place in my heart. Throughout high school, I was very involved in a variety of activities, but it was obvious that 4-H and FFA was where I shined. I have been extremely blessed to have many mentors who have assisted me and helped me grow through the industry. I attended NAYI during my junior and senior years of high school. I have always been an extrovert, but the experience I gained from NAYI is priceless. I learned so much about the different aspects of agriculture as well as being able to network with so many people. I am so grateful for the opportunity to serve on NAYC. Feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns at demilapaseotes@gmail.com.

Hey everyone, I am Caleb Burnside, a sophomore at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. I am majoring in agribusiness and minoring in agronomy and the Engler Agribusiness Entrepreneurship Program. I was born and raised on a family farm south of Stapleton, Nebraska, and have been surrounded by agriculture my whole life. When I was younger, I often followed my dad around the farm, riding along in the combine, and listening in on the morning coffee talks with wise local farmers. As I've grown, my responsibilities on the farm have expanded to include managing operations, selling and distributing seed, and working with everything from cows to pivots. In college, I stay active in various organizations. I participate in several organizations, including Alpha Gamma Sigma Fraternity, the Engler Entrepreneurship Program, the UNL Collegiate Farm Bureau, the SALT College Ministry, and the NHRI Leadership Mentoring Program. I look forward to growing my agricultural knowledge, building connections with others, and promoting agriculture for younger generations. I am excited to be on the NAYC this year and ready to take on some big challenges! Agriculture and people are my passions, and I would love to share that with anyone and everyone. I am always open to having conversations or answering any agricultural questions you may have. Feel free to reach out to me at Cburnside2823@gmail.com if you have any agricultural questions or want to connect!

Hello! My name is Lynsie Lancaster, and I'm currently a freshman at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln studying animal science and pre-veterinary medicine. I am from Hastings, Nebraska. I grew up involved heavily in 4-H doing anything from growing vegetables to showing horses. In high school I expanded into high school rodeo, FFA, and many other extracurriculars. I gained so much experience and developed a deeper love for agriculture through FFA, from competing in any and every event to serving on our officer team. I was thankful to have so many unique opportunities through high school rodeo like representing the sport and our state at the National High School Finals Rodeo as Miss Nebraska High School Rodeo and competing in the goat tying. As I start into my freshman year of college, I have continued to stay involved as a member of the Chi Omega Sorority, Pre-Vet club, Rodeo club, Block and Bridle, and the Elite 11 program. Alongside the rodeo club, I compete on the traveling team as a goat tyer. In what little free time I have, I enjoy a good nap, movie, or time with family and friends. I am so excited to see what these next few years at UNL and with my new NAYC family have in store for me! I am so thankful for the opportunity to surround myself with agriculturalists who share the same passion as I do and am looking forward to NAYI 2025 already! If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out. My email is lynsielancaster@gmail.com.

Hello! My name is Keiser Dixon, and I am currently a freshman at the University of Nebraska- Lincoln studying animal science with a minor in agronomy. I grew up in Pleasanton, Nebraska, where we own and operate a family farm and ranch, as well as a seed-selling business and crop-consulting business. I was very involved in my school’s FFA program in high school, where I was a part of the first two FFA officer teams in our school's history. I found my passion for agriculture the second that I stepped up on a horse, and that passion has continued to grow more and more as I assist my family in all of our operations. I am currently involved in the Agronomy Club, Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity, the Rodeo Club, CASNR Coffee Club, and NAYC. I attended NAYI my junior and senior years of high school where I made some great memories and even better connections and friends who I still talk to every day! I am very honored to be a part of the NAYC this year and look forward to putting on a great experience for everybody at NAYI this summer! Please feel free to contact me with any questions at keiser.dixon@hotmail.com.