Contact & Executive Director Update
Contact the Foundation:
From the Director's Desk
| A New Era of Growth and Opportunity |
Greetings on behalf of the Michigan FFA Foundation and our board of directors! I’m Alex Schnabelrauch, and I’ve served as executive director of the foundation since last October. It’s a privilege and joy to spend every day working to connect Michigan FFA members with resources and opportunities made available through generous corporate and individual donors.
I am thrilled to share some exciting updates about the Michigan FFA Foundation as we’re about a year into a totally new chapter. The foundation has recently transitioned to a stand-alone 501(c)(3) organization, now operating under a fiduciary board. This change marks a significant milestone in our history and positions us for even greater impact in supporting FFA members across Michigan and the future of agriculture across our state.
Click here to see a full list of our dedicated board members.
Our Mission and Vision
The Michigan FFA Foundation remains steadfast in its mission to cultivate and support FFA members as they develop their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. We provide essential resources and opportunities that empower young leaders to excel in their academic and career pursuits. We work with businesses and organizations in agriculture, food and natural resources to support programs, contests, awards, conferences, scholarships and resources for the over 8,800 Michigan FFA members.
A New Structure, A Strong Partnership
While we now manage our annual fundraising directly through the Michigan FFA Foundation, we continue to maintain a strong partnership with Michigan State University on endowments. This dual approach allows us to leverage the best of both worlds—ensuring a stable financial future while dynamically responding to the immediate needs of our members and supporters. If you are looking to make a gift to support Michigan FFA, please consider giving directly to us at the Michigan FFA Foundation, 3515 West Road, Suite B, East Lansing, MI 48823.
Growing to Serve More FFA Members
In 2024, we have already achieved remarkable progress. We have welcomed new donors into our community and reengaged previously lapsed donors. Together, these efforts have secured nearly $250,000 to support important student programming like State FFA Convention, Regional FFA Leadership Camps, Leadership and Career Development Events, Washington Leadership Conference and so much more. But we’re far from finished! There’s so much more we can do to support our students. If you or someone you know is interested in investing in the next generation of agricultural leaders, we look forward to working with you.
Just Up the Road
Our office is no longer located on campus, but we’re still conveniently housed in East Lansing. We are grateful to GreenStone Farm Credit Services and the Michigan Pork Producers Association for generously hosting our Michigan FFA Foundation office. Their support has been instrumental in this transition and in helping us build a solid foundation for the future.
Looking Ahead
As we move forward, our vision is to continue expanding our reach and deepening our impact. We aim to create more opportunities for our members, from scholarships and grants to leadership development programs and hands-on experiences. Our goal is to ensure that every FFA member in Michigan has the resources and support they need to achieve their dreams.
Thank you for being part of this incredible journey. Your support and dedication are the driving forces behind our success, and together, we are building a brighter future for Michigan FFA members.
If you have ideas or want to learn more, do not hesitate to reach out to me at alex@michiganffa.org or 810-476-3851.
Executive Director Introduction
While continually looking toward development into the future, the Foundation Board made the determination to undergo a transitional refresh. Effective March 2023, the Foundation established itself as a legal entity in the state of Michigan and has received full 501(c)3 status with the IRS. The Foundation and MSU will maintain their ongoing partnership through coordinated fundraising and endowment fund management.
The Michigan FFA Foundation (Foundation) recently underwent a transitional refresh, establishing itself as a legal entity in the state of Michigan and earning 501(c)3 status with the IRS. Under the new establishment, the Foundation volunteer Board of Directors completed a thorough search for the ideal individual to serve as the Executive Director and lead the organization into the future. After conducting a rigorous process and review, with significant consideration given to individual skills, experience, and passion regarding Michigan FFA and agriscience education, the Foundation is pleased to announce that Alex Schnabelrauch has been selected as Executive Director, beginning October 23, 2023.
Alex is no stranger to the FFA organization, as she has served as both a Michigan FFA State Officer and a National FFA Officer, as well as a Washington Leadership Conference facilitator. She has also held a seat on the Foundation Board of Directors, which she will resign upon transition to this role. Professionally, her experience includes Michigan Milk Producers Association Communications Manager, Michigan Farm Bureau Young Farmer Manager, and most recently Michigan Farm Bureau Center for Education and Leadership Development Director. With expertise in fundraising for the Michigan Foundation for Agriculture and county/state Farm Bureau leadership development, Alex brings programming, development, and donor stewardship acumen to this new role as the Michigan FFA Foundation Executive Director.
“I have experienced firsthand the positive difference FFA makes in the lives of students, and I’m passionately committed to ensuring these opportunities are accessible to a growing number of Michigan students,” explains Schnabelrauch. “I am excited to work with individuals, companies, and foundations who believe in the future of agriculture as they invest in the next generation of industry leaders. With the challenges facing agriculture, food and natural resources, there’s never been a more important time to double down on leadership and workforce development.”
As Executive Director, Alex will lead the organization, including directing annual giving and coordinating donor recognition. She will serve as a strategic partner supporting the Michigan FFA Foundation achieving its mission – to impact youth leadership development in Michigan as it related to FFA and agriscience education initiatives. Supporting leadership development, career success and self-esteem, leading to a lifetime of personal success for students across the state. Alex will also drive continual development and implementation of strategic plans, as well as work with MSU College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR) in accordance with the Memorandum of Agreement.
“The officers of the MI FFA Foundation, along with the entire board, are thrilled to have Alex join the organization as its Executive Director. Her history of involvement with FFA, including time served on the Foundation Board, and her passion for the cause are noteworthy. But her leadership skills and vision for the foundation are the characteristics that make her the right choice to move us forward. We look forward to working with her to grow the Foundation and support FFA for years to come,” said Foundation Treasurer Brad Morrill (Crystal Flash).