By Sophia Barnum, Michigan FFA Foundation Intern
Each year, Glassbrook Grants, made possible through the Michigan FFA Foundation, provide vital funding to help agricultural educators and FFA chapters bring innovative, hands-on learning experiences to life. These grants support classroom and laboratory projects, facility improvements and chapter initiatives that expand agriculture education opportunities for students statewide.
During the past year, the impact of Glassbrook Grants was evident in programs from Springport to Blissfield, with more than 700 students directly benefiting from projects that strengthen technical skills, connect classroom learning to real-world applications and spark excitement for agriculture.
At Springport FFA, the grant was used to purchase a hand-held ultrasound device giving students the opportunity to explore veterinary science through live imaging. “The Glassbrook Grant from the Michigan FFA Foundation has opened the door to creating opportunities for our students to learn ultrasound technology and skill development in applicable veterinary practices,” said Springport FFA Advisor Megan Emelander.
For Reese FFA, which was rechartered last year, the funds helped the program purchase official dress items and chapter materials to foster pride and a sense of belonging. “Thanks to the Glassbrook Grant from the Michigan FFA Foundation, Reese FFA students are able to compete and participate in regional, state and national FFA events wearing jackets full of tradition and opportunity,” said Advisor Samantha DePrekel.
Other chapters used their funding to expand hands-on learning facilities. Chesaning FFA outfitted its new agriscience kitchen area with commercial appliances to support food science classes and meals for agricultural projects. Marcellus FFA provided students with a unique opportunity to build their own fishing rods, a project that combined science, craftsmanship and Michigan’s natural resources.
Ovid-Elsie FFA purchased a mobile hydroponic station that is now being integrated across multiple courses. Owosso High School applied its grant to a new agriscience barn that will serve as a livestock learning lab for more than 150 students. Meanwhile, Blissfield FFA used its funds to equip a zoology learning lab with farrowing crates and livestock supplies to support animal care projects.
No matter the project, each Glassbrook Grant helps Michigan FFA chapters expand access to experiential learning that connects students with agricultural careers and strengthens their leadership and technical skills.
Applications for the next cycle of Glassbrook Grants are due December 1. Educators and advisors are encouraged to apply for funding to enhance classroom learning, develop program facilities or start new hands-on projects. These grants continue to make a lasting difference for agriculture education programs and the students they serve.
