Teagan Erbele looks forward to year of service as National FFA officer

As Teagan Erbele stepped off the plane at Hector International Airport, a wave of emotion washed over her. The familiar faces of friends and family greeted her with cheers, their support palpable. It was a moment that encapsulated her journey from a hesitant seventh grader to the newly elected central region vice president for the National FFA Organization. The excitement in the air was electric, a testament to the community that has rallied around her as she prepares for a year of service that promises to be transformative not only for her but for countless others in the FFA.

What Happened

On October 24, 2023, during the National FFA Convention & Expo, Teagan Erbele was announced as the central region vice president for the National FFA for the 2026-27 term. This marks a significant milestone not just for Erbele, a junior at North Dakota State University majoring in agriculture education, but also for North Dakota, as she becomes the first national officer from the state in 25 years. Erbele's journey began with a spark of interest in agriculture, ignited by her experiences on her family's cattle ranch in Lehr, North Dakota.

Her journey into the FFA was not without its challenges. Initially, Teagan was reluctant to join, expressing her fears of public speaking and competition. "My parents one day just told me after school I was going to go to the shop for livestock judging practice, and I didn't really know what that meant. But I remember going home that day after school, and I was just crying to them," she recalled. Despite her initial resistance, her parents encouraged her to stick with it, promising that she would develop valuable skills.

Encouragement from her high school ag advisor, Brian Schneider, played a crucial role in her development. Schneider recognized Teagan's potential and pushed her to participate in contests that she initially thought were beyond her reach. "He was my 'voice of truth,' giving me the confidence and opportunities I needed to grow," she said. This nurturing environment helped her blossom into a passionate advocate for agriculture and leadership development.

Community Reaction

The announcement of Teagan's election was met with overwhelming pride and joy from her community. North Dakota FFA has long awaited a representative at the national level, and her achievement has reignited enthusiasm for the organization. "We have more cows than people, but we have pretty awesome people, and so it's such a joy to get to represent them and all of the hard work that they've been laboring for so long," Erbele expressed, highlighting her commitment to showcasing the dedication of North Dakota's agricultural community.

As she prepares for her year of service, Teagan's story resonates deeply with many in the FFA and beyond. Her journey from uncertainty to leadership serves as an inspiration for young members across the country. "I really want to connect with members and show them that, no matter their background or skill set, they can come into FFA, and they'll learn so much and meet so many people," she said. Her enthusiasm for mentorship and personal growth is a refreshing reminder of the core values that FFA embodies.

A Year of Adventure

The upcoming year promises to be filled with adventure and learning for Teagan and her fellow officers. After wrapping up classes, she and her team will return to Indianapolis on December 1 to begin their training and preparation. The officers will take a break from their college studies during the spring 2026 and fall 2027 semesters to focus on their duties as national representatives. "The big number they throw out there is each person travels over 100,000 miles," she noted, emphasizing the extensive outreach they will undertake.

As part of their journey, the team will also have the unique opportunity to visit Japan at the end of January, where they will experience Japanese agriculture and engage with the Future Farmers of Japan (FFJ). This international exposure will broaden their perspectives and enhance their ability to advocate for agriculture on a global scale. Teagan's excitement for these experiences is palpable, as she anticipates the chance to deepen her understanding of agricultural practices worldwide.

Values and Vision

Teagan's vision for her year of service is rooted in the values of agriculture, service, and advocacy. She aims to ensure that leadership development remains a priority for the national team, fostering an environment where young leaders can thrive. "We want to ensure that leadership development that's rooted in agriculture, service, and advocacy are the forefront values of our team this year and what we get to do," she explained.

Her commitment to these values reflects a broader philosophy that emphasizes the importance of community and support. Teagan's journey has been shaped by the encouragement of those around her, and she hopes to pay it forward by inspiring others to embrace opportunities within the FFA. "I would tell younger members just to keep saying yes to opportunities within the FFA," she advised. This mindset not only fosters personal growth but also strengthens the bonds within the agricultural community.

Looking Ahead

As Teagan embarks on this exciting chapter, she remains open to the possibilities that lie ahead. While she envisions a future as a classroom teacher, she acknowledges that her experiences as a national officer may lead her down unexpected paths. "I do think this year will open so many doors, so we'll see what happens," she said, reflecting on the uncertainty that often accompanies growth and change.

Her journey is a testament to the power of community support and the impact of mentorship. Many of those who have guided her along the way were present to celebrate her achievement upon her return to North Dakota. "When I got off the airplane in Fargo, it was like, so many people on a Thursday afternoon were there to support and encourage me. And it was so cool to look out and say, this is my village. These are my people that have gotten me here," she shared, emphasizing the importance of surrounding oneself with a supportive network.

In a world where the future can often seem uncertain, Teagan Erbele's story is a beacon of hope and inspiration. Her commitment to serving others, fostering leadership, and advocating for agriculture is a reflection of the values that underpin the FFA and the communities it serves. As she prepares for her year of service, one thing is clear: Teagan is not just stepping into a leadership role; she is stepping into a legacy of support, growth, and unwavering dedication to the agricultural community.