Katie Morman, an agricultural educator at North Decatur High School and advisor for the North Decatur FFA Chapter, has been awarded two competitive grants from the National FFA Organization in partnership with the Lilly Endowment—totaling $12,500—to support professional development and classroom enhancement in agricultural education.
Morman received a $2,500 National FFA Professional Development Grant, one of only 25 awarded statewide through a competitive application process. This grant will fund her attendance at the 2025 National Association of Agricultural Educators (NAAE) Convention in Nashville, Tennessee. With access to more than 80 specialized workshops, she will explore the latest trends, tools, and teaching strategies in agricultural education.
“This grant will enable me to attend the 2025 NAAE Convention in Nashville, Tennessee, where I aim to enhance my teaching practices,” said Morman. “Collaborating with other professionals will inspire innovative approaches to foster a more inclusive, dynamic, and impactful learning environment. I am eager to gain a comprehensive understanding of current innovations in education, leadership, and career development, which will not only improve my teaching but also contribute to my growth as a professional.”
In addition, Morman and the North Decatur FFA Chapter were awarded a $10,000 National FFA Classroom Enhancement Grant—one of 33 awarded in Indiana. This funding will be used to purchase essential hands-on materials and equipment for Animal Science courses.
“This grant will allow us to acquire essential hands-on materials and equipment for our Animal Science courses, significantly improving students’ understanding and practical skills in animal husbandry, management, and care,” said Morman. “By providing real-world experiences, we aim to foster vital skills needed in the agricultural industry. This investment is set to enhance the overall delivery of agricultural education, cultivate future leaders in agriculture, and improve the quality of instruction for both current and future students.”
Both grants are part of a broader initiative supported by the Lilly Endowment to expand access to high-quality agricultural education across Indiana, particularly for underrepresented and marginalized students. The National FFA Organization and Lilly Endowment are committed to strengthening agricultural education and helping teachers like Morman bring innovation and inclusivity into the classroom.
For more information about the National FFA Organization and its programs, visit www.ffa.org.
