Colusa High School agricultural teacher Heather Thomas, left, stands with members of the Colusa FFA program during a recent event at Chico State. Thomas was recently named a finalist for the 2025-26 Ag Educator of the Year honor through Nationwide’s Golden Owl Award. Photo courtesy of California FFA Foundation.COLUSA, CA (MPG) – Colusa High School agricultural teacher Heather Thomas has been named a finalist for the 2025-26 Ag Educator of the Year honor through Nationwide’s Golden Owl Award, a program that recognizes agricultural teachers across the country for their work in developing the next generation of agriculture leaders.
The California FFA Foundation, California Farm Bureau and Nationwide announced the finalists after a statewide nomination process that drew more than 400 submissions from students, parents, fellow teachers and community members.
Thomas was recognized for her commitment to agricultural education and her work supporting students both in the classroom and through Colusa High School’s FFA program. Nominations highlighted her role in encouraging students to pursue leadership opportunities while learning about agriculture and related careers.
One student wrote in a nomination that Thomas’ passion for agriculture and teaching has helped students better understand the role agriculture plays in everyday life.
“Mrs. Thomas’ passion for agriculture and teaching inspires us to learn and grow as individuals,” the student wrote. “She not only teaches us about crops, livestock and science, but also helps us understand why agriculture is such an important part of our daily lives.”
Supporters said Thomas regularly spends additional time working with students on FFA activities, answering questions and helping guide them through challenges related to agricultural projects and competitions.
California Farm Bureau President Shannon Douglass, a former FFA member and current California FFA Foundation board member, said agricultural educators play a critical role in shaping future leaders in the industry.
“Farm Bureau sees firsthand the tremendous impact FFA advisors have on local programs across our state and nation,” Douglass said. “Many of today’s leaders in Farm Bureau and throughout the agriculture industry began their journeys in FFA.”
Thomas will be recognized during the California FFA State Leadership Conference scheduled for March 21-24 in Ontario. As a finalist, she will receive a plaque and a $500 award to support agricultural education.
Six finalists from across California will compete for the state’s Ag Educator of the Year title. The winner will receive an additional $3,000 and the Golden Owl Award trophy, with the announcement planned during the conference.