By Scout Nelson
The 2025 National Ag Day Essay Contest has recognized outstanding participants for their exceptional video entries. The competition, held annually, celebrates the contributions of agriculture and its vital role in everyday life. This year, all entries were submitted through video format, providing a unique and dynamic way for students to share their perspectives on agriculture.
The first-place winner of the contest is Tuongvy Nguyen from Saint Petersburg, Florida, who receives a prize of $1,500. Nguyen’s video entry impressed the judges with its clarity, passion, and thorough understanding of the importance of agriculture in shaping communities. Second place, with a prize of $1,000, was awarded to Kristen Dallas from Las Vegas, Nevada, whose entry highlighted the environmental and economic benefits of sustainable agricultural practices. The third-place prize of $500 went to Isabella Newell from Waltonville, Illinois, for her insightful video that addressed the challenges and rewards of farming in today’s world.
In addition to the top three winners, several honorable mentions were also recognized for their outstanding efforts. These students will each receive a $100 award. The honorable mention recipients are Ayaan Shaikh from Burlington, Massachusetts, Lilly Sondergeld from Genoa, Ohio, Alexis Washington from West Columbia, South Carolina, and Madelyn Berkenhoff from Brookings, South Dakota.
The competition aimed to encourage students to explore the significance of agriculture in their lives and communities. With students from across the nation participating, it has become a platform for showcasing the future leaders of agriculture. South Dakota’s Madelyn Berkenhoff, one of the honorable mention recipients, demonstrated a strong commitment to raising awareness about farming practices and sustainability. The recognition of students like Berkenhoff highlights the growing importance of agriculture education and the involvement of young people in shaping the future of the agricultural industry.
Congratulations to all the winners and participants for their hard work and dedication to promoting agriculture!
Photo Credit: pexels-fauxels
Categories: South Dakota, Business