Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture Jonathan Shell (center) visits FFA chapters across Kentucky to support the Ag Tag Program. Photo courtesy of Kristan Wright.
With roots dating to 2012, the Kentucky Ag Tag Program was created as a way for Kentucky farmers to support agricultural education and development across the state. When farmers register for farm license plate tags each March, they have the option to donate to the program.
“A $10 donation won’t change your life, but through the Ag Tag Program it can radically change the lives of FFA members,” says Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture Jonathan Shell.
And it has — the program raised $930,000 in 2024, with the goal of surpassing $1 million in 2025.
Funding is split between agricultural education resources and programs through Kentucky FFA and Kentucky 4-H as well as the promotion of Kentucky-grown products through the Kentucky Proud brand. Last year, Kentucky FFA received more than $310,000, with half going to the chapter where the donation was made and half to the Kentucky FFA Foundation.
Inspired to Give Back
Kentucky FFA State Advisor Kristan Wright says these funds are invaluable for both members and teachers. She previously worked as the agriculture teacher and FFA advisor for Seneca High School in Louisville.
“If you need to purchase FFA jackets or a bus to get students to the national convention, you can do that,” Wright says. “Having funding come in that you’re not fundraising for takes a big burden off of the teacher, and they can utilize them for whatever their chapter needs.”
Wright adds that Commissioner Shell is a true champion of the program, visiting county clerks across the state during January and February to encourage support. He was an active FFA member, serving as his chapter’s sentinel and vice president, and was selected as a Kentucky FFA Star in Agricultural Placement. He also received both his state degree and American FFA Degree.
“It’s one of the things that fulfills me most,” Shell says. “It allows me to connect with kids across the state, have relationships with them, pour into them, help them develop leadership qualities and listen to what they’re working on.”
Shell’s currently working with legislators to establish a “Friends of Agriculture” non-commercial license plate option, which would allow non-farmers to support agricultural education.
“FFA members are the best of the best that we have to offer in America today,” Shell says. “If you’re down on this generation in any way, go to a local FFA chapter, talk to these kids and it will absolutely radically change your opinion about who and what they are.”
