Kaufman named finalist for prestigious Golden Owl Award

Westfield ag education teacher & FFA advisor one of eight in Indiana

Westfield High School’s Agricultural Education teacher and FFA advisor, Chris Kaufman, has been named one of eight finalists for the Golden Owl Award, an honor recognizing outstanding agricultural educators.

The winner will be announced at the Indiana FFA Convention at Purdue University on June 18.

The Westfield FFA’s first event took place in September 2022. (From left) Chris Kaufman, Max Kaufman, Jules Vitou, Lauren Pickett, Ava Lee, Mckynzye White, and Ben Wiggins. (Photo provided)

Since launching Westfield’s agriculture program in 2022 with just one class of 21 students, Kaufman has helped it flourish into a dynamic program with 12 courses, 261 high school students, and over 600 eighth graders engaged in Agriculture Exploration. Under his leadership, the Westfield FFA chapter has grown to 76 members, earning state and national recognition in competitions.

“Agricultural Education is my passion,” Kaufman said. “This job is more of a calling than a profession. I show up every day for the students – to support and challenge them just as I was supported and challenged. It is an incredible honor to know that my students, parents, administration, and community see the impact I strive to make.”

Westfield FFA’s award-winning homecoming float in 2023. (From left) Chris Kaufman, Hannah Hoffner, Julian Six, Caleb Brunn, Ella Carlson, Claire Conwell, Abbey Wiggins, Ava Carlson, Ian McKinnon, Jude Kaufman, Vivian McKinney, Ava Lee, Jules Vitou, Mckynzye White, Aiden Cox, and Ben Davis (parent and supporter). (Photo provided)

Westfield students have pursued diverse agricultural pathways, including Animal Science, Plant Science, and Natural Resources, with many continuing their studies at universities such as Purdue, Oklahoma State, and the University of Illinois.

The program has already produced state and nationally ranked teams, including:

• State Champions in Agricultural Sales (10th nationally)
• State Champions in Agricultural Marketing (11th nationally)
• Five first-place Agriscience Fair winners in various categories

Chris and Jude Kaufman went to the Tippecanoe County Fair to support Ella Carlson in her bid to be Fair Queen in 2024. (From left) Jude Kaufman, Ella Carlson, and Chris Kaufman. (Photo provided)

Kaufman, who has dedicated 24 years to Agricultural Education, received nominations for the Golden Owl Award from students in multiple states, demonstrating the lasting impact of his mentorship.

“If I were to win this award, it would be the culmination of my life’s work,” Kaufman added.

The Westfield FFA out having some fun bowling. (From left) Indiana FFA Vice President Stephanie Berenda, Abby Wiggins, Mckynzye White, Vivian McKinney, Claire Conwell, Ava Carlson, Jude Kaufman, Myles Braasch, Eli Worth, Braxton Stalbaum, Ian McKinnon, Ashley Hoyt, Sydney Strahlem, and Chris Kaufman. (Photo provided)

Westfield Washington Schools congratulates Kaufman on this well-deserved recognition and looks forward to celebrating his achievements and lasting impact on students at the Indiana FFA Convention in June.

About the Golden Owl Award
The Golden Owl Award, sponsored by Nationwide in partnership with Indiana FFA, recognizes exceptional agricultural educators who go above and beyond to prepare students for agriculture and life sciences careers. Click here to learn more.