Dennis and Lynell Morgan, publishers of The Elgin Review weekly newspaper, were among a select number of adults from across the state to be recognized for their contributions at the Nebraska State FFA Convention held last week.
The Morgans received an Honorary State FFA Degree at the last of seven sessions of the convention held at the Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln.
“We are truly honored to receive this award,” the Morgans said. “Having both been raised on farms (Lynell near Randolph and Dennis near Ulysses), we’ve seen first hand the importance of agriculture in our local communities, state and nation.”
Here at The Elgin Review, a strong emphasis is placed on celebrating the many achievements of Elgin FFA and its members. The Morgans have owned the newspaper for the last 11 years.
“Lessons learned by FFA members help them to succeed in the future. There are many career ag opportunities for our youth to pursue. Participating in FFA opens doors which our future leaders walk through,” the Morgans said.
According to Julia Schwartz, Elgin FFA Advisor, the degree is the highest honor the Nebraska FFA Association can bestow on adults.
“The Honorary State FFA Degree is a way that adults can be recognized at this esteemed level. Nominees may come from the local chapter or state level. Anyone can nominate someone or business for a honorary state degree. This honor comes to those who support the local program or who have made an impact on local students.”
The Morgans weren’t the only persons with ties to Elgin to be presented an Honorary State FFA Degree. Also recognized with the award was Sarah (Jensen) Mullen.
Mrs. Mullen is the Development and Marketing/Program Manager for the Nebraska FFA Foundation.
A 2004 graduate of Elgin High School, she served as secretary of the Elgin FFA Chapter during her senior year.
She is the daughter of Bryan and Paula Jensen.
Others receiving honorary degrees were: Richard and Sue Walter, Holdrege; Matt and Valorie Quiring, Bradshaw; Mame Hild, Fairfield; Bruce and Veta Hungerford, Long Pine; Jim Nelson, Bassett; Brad Nygren, Omaha; Ruth Lohmeyer, Lincoln; Susan Prothman, Albion; Trevor VanDeWalle, Albion; Larry and Cindy Edwards, Alliance; Sally Henderson, Alliance; Steve Wolf, Ord; Kim Musil, Ord; Steve White, Axtell; Ryan Hassebrook, Raymond; Jennifer Greenlee, Lincoln; Dr. Mark Balschweid, Lincoln; Sharon Katt, Lincoln; Tom Volk, Lincoln; and Perry Case, McCook.
