By Andi Anderson
Versailles High School's Dena Wuebker has been honored as this year’s Ohio Golden Owl Award winner, a title bestowed upon her at the 96th Ohio FFA Convention.
This award, one of the most prestigious in Ohio for agricultural educators, recognizes Wuebker’s significant contributions over her 30-year career in agricultural education.
“My goal is that students leave with skills to last a lifetime,” Wuebker remarked. Her philosophy centers on service, a value reflected both in her teaching style and personal life.
She has inspired her students to become leaders passionate about agriculture, natural resources, and environmental conservation.
Wuebker’s journey in agriculture and education began early, influenced by her family’s strong educational background and her upbringing on a diversified dairy farm in Fresno, Coshocton County.
Her role as a former FFA member and leader laid the foundation for her career in agricultural education.
After graduating from The Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Science in Agriscience Education in 1994, Wuebker took up her role at Versailles High School.
Her dedication and effective teaching strategies led to significant growth in the school’s agricultural program, prompting the addition of another educator to handle the increased student enrollment, which stands at nearly 190 today.
“It doesn’t matter how much you know until your students know that you care,” said Wuebker, quoting her cooperating teacher, Sam Custer. This belief has driven her to support her students beyond the classroom, attending their various activities and nurturing their growth as individuals.
Her family echoes this sentiment, with her husband, Jeff, and children, Jacob and Laura, highlighting her deep commitment to her students and community. They describe her as embodying passion and service, qualities that have made her a beloved figure in the field of agricultural education.
The Golden Owl Award, sponsored by Nationwide, Ohio FFA, Ohio Farm Bureau, Farm Credit Mid-America, and AgCredit, began in the 2018-19 school year to honor outstanding agricultural educators.
Wuebker’s win came from a pool of over 500 nominations, showcasing her impact and the respect she commands among students, parents, and peers.
This recognition honors Wuebker's past contributions and shines a light on the vital role of agricultural educators in inspiring the next generation of leaders in the field.
Photo Credit: golden-owl-award
Categories: Ohio, Education