Ill. FFA adds state sentinel in historic expansion of officer team

At the 97th Illinois FFA State Convention, delegates voted to expand the Illinois FFA major state officer team for the first time in nearly 30 years. With an overwhelming majority of 422 delegates supporting the move, the Illinois Association FFA Constitution and bylaws were amended to add a sixth major state officer: the sentinel.

The decision was driven by a growing membership base, now nearly 43,000 students, and a desire to strengthen support for chapters and individual members across the state. The last change to the officer team occurred in 1996, when the secretary-treasurer role was split into two distinct positions.

“As we continue to grow as an organization, now six state officers can serve our membership better,” Illinois FFA Executive Director Mindy Bunselmeyer told reporters. “Everything about today’s vote and creating a state sentinel is a win, not only for the organization, but for the agriculture industry, for these young leaders, for their families, and for their communities.”

The new sentinel role will mirror that of local chapter and national FFA officer structures, which already include the position. Many other state FFA associations across the country also have a sentinel, and Illinois’ move aligns it with this broader national standard.

Traditionally, the sentinel is responsible for maintaining order during meetings, welcoming guests, assisting with setting up events, and promoting chapter unity. On the state level, a sentinel often takes on responsibilities related to member engagement, event coordination, and inclusivity efforts — ensuring no student feels left out and every member has access to leadership and learning opportunities.

From the delegate floor, Section 21 FFA President Rachel Donoho emphasized this very point as reported by FarmWeek Now: “We’re not just filling a spot, we’re filling a need, ensuring no member or chapter falls through the cracks.”

The idea to create the new role originated with Section 20 President Wyatt Draper, who proposed the motion last August. Draper had served as a sentinel during the convention and saw firsthand how the additional position could benefit the organization.

He addressed concerns about financing the sixth role by explaining that, “There are multiple corporate sponsors that aid in Illinois Association FFA. Those corporate sponsors, as well as other sponsors like past major state officer teams, will provide for this major state officer and all that comes with it.”

With the amendment passed, Paige Sierens of the Annawan FFA chapter was elected as the first Illinois FFA state sentinel. “It’s a surreal experience to know that you even got a major state office, let alone this historic one,” Sierens told Farm Progress. “I’m just so excited for the opportunity.”

Sierens shared that her nerves during the selection process faded as she gave more speeches and connected with the members she hoped to serve. “I knew that I wanted to have that impact on members across the state,” she said. Sierens grew up on her family’s farm near Annawan and previously served as Section 3 president. After her year of service, she plans to attend the University of Illinois to study animal sciences.

Joining Sierens on the 2025-26 state officer team are Natalie Pratt as president, Koben Tate as vice president, Ethan Bremmer as reporter, Kyle Bradshaw as secretary, and Kaydance Wooton as treasurer.

Pratt, from Amboy FFA in Section 2, was elected president after three rounds of voting. In acceptance speech, she said, “He put this jacket on everyone’s shoulders for a reason, and if he put mine here to be the president this year, then I’ll do it.” Inspired by competing in the national Conduct of Chapter Meetings LDE her freshman year, Pratt said, “I think that was the moment where I realized how much power the FFA jacket can hold.” She plans to attend Oklahoma State University to study agricultural education.

With the addition of the sentinel role, Illinois FFA joins the ranks of many other state associations embracing a six-officer team. The change is not only historic but practical, designed to support a growing student base with strong, well-rounded leadership. As these six officers step into their new roles, they carry the responsibility and excitement of shaping the next chapter of Illinois FFA.