Regional Focus

For Megan Moklestad, a freshman studying agricultural business at Iowa State University (ISU), and her mother Nancy, an ISU alumna, being treated to a VIP game-day experience at the Iowa State– Oklahoma State football game was a big thrill.

They stood on the field while players did the traditional Cyclone Spirit Walk into the stadium, were featured on the big screen, and received an autographed football plus special hospitality. “It was an awesome experience, an incredible day, and our family felt very honored,” says Nancy.

The popular photo contest is part of the ongoing CHS collegiate sports partnership with 25 colleges in 23 states. The program is designed to build connections with the next generation of ag leaders while saluting American farm families and building awareness for agriculture and the cooperative system. Fans voted on school athletic Facebook pages over a two-week period to choose winners.

The Moklestads raise corn and soybeans near Thompson, Iowa, and have a wean-to-finish hog operation, along with a small cow-calf herd from Megan’s days of showing cattle at county and state fairs. Megan, who was president and treasurer of her local FFA chapter, followed in the footsteps of her parents, who grew up on farms and were active in 4-H and FFA.

“Agriculture takes a lot of dedication, but it’s so worth it,” says Nancy, who handles the financial side of the farm operation while working as a vice president of Farmers Trust & Savings Bank.

“Farming is challenging and rewarding,” agrees Dave. “Our family is proud to support Iowa agriculture.”