Notable graduates: Craig Kohn — A passion for agricultural education

In the process of applying for grants to conduct his own
environmental research, Craig Kohn was asked to take the lead on
implementing an environmental education program through the Wisconsin Future Farmers of America (FFA) Association.

Unenthusiastic at first, Kohn soon discovered his passion for education.

"The initial disappointment of having to drop the research project
was outweighed by how much I enjoy teaching," says Kohn. "I felt that
my work would be more beneficial if I could create future ecological
researchers rather than continue my own research."

Kohn assumed full control of the program and conducted Wisconsin’s
first-ever Environmental and Natural Resources State Competition, held
at the Alliant Energy Center during the Wisconsin State FFA Convention.
He also conducted educational workshops and sought contributions and
ideas from the state’s agricultural instructors and UW–Madison students
and faculty.

"At the competition, we try to incorporate things like soil
science, water quality, air quality, wildlife identification and so on.
It’s a test of high school students’ knowledge but also shows that they
really care about the environment," says Kohn.

Kohn continues to ensure the program reflects ideas of sustainable
use, and his success can be measured by recognition from the Wisconsin
Legislature, the University of Wisconsin System and multiple
agricultural agencies. He will graduate with degrees in both
agricultural and educational science as well as acquiring two teaching
certificates.

In addition to a hectic schedule of student teaching and
program-coordinating, Kohn spends 10 to 20 hours per week as one of
UW-Madison’s Bucky Badger mascots. After completing his program in six
years, which is typically finished in seven, Kohn plans on residing in
the Madison area and continuing his work with the FFA.