Mary Schrieber, the 2024-25 national central region vice president.
From the small town of East Troy, Wis., to the national stage, Mary Schrieber’s journey to becoming the 2024–25 National FFA central region vice president is one marked by determination, growth and purpose.
After years of involvement at the chapter, state and eventually national level, Schrieber says her decision to run for national office came from a desire to serve FFA members on a broader and larger scale — to be a voice for students who, like her, found their confidence and calling through agricultural education.
Throughout her year of service, Schrieber has traveled the country, speaking at conventions, visiting local chapters and connecting with thousands of members. Among her proudest moments are the quiet conversations when a student thanks her for inspiring them to take on a new challenge, or when a chapter in a rural community feels seen and heard.
“Those moments are a reminder of why I chose this role,” Schrieber says. “Creating that brotherhood, access and connection — no matter where a member comes from.”
Schrieber gives a speech at a chapter awards banquet.
But the road to national office wasn’t without its challenges. Schrieber admits that the weight of national expectations, the rigorous travel schedule and moments of self-doubt were real obstacles.
“There were times I wondered if I had gotten in too deep and would sink,” she says. “But each interaction with members and alumni helped turn that doubt into purpose.”
With the support of mentors, past officers, agriculture industry leaders, Wisconsin State FFA Executive Director Cheryl Zimmerman, and State FFA Advisor Sally Ladston, Schrieber overcame those hurdles and used them to fuel her mission. After more than 19 interviews, facilitation demonstrations and extemporaneous speeches, she was awarded the honor to serve the National FFA Organization as its central region vice president.
Throughout the course of her term, Schrieber gained skills she never imagined she would master, including public speaking, leadership facilitation, strategic planning, time management and navigating through tough conversations with grace. Preparation for national office included months of practice interviews, training and deep self-reflection. She also leaned into every opportunity she had to serve beforehand, including her role as Wisconsin FFA state president and, before that, Section 10 state reporter.
Schrieber gives her keynote address to thousands of FFA members.
Looking ahead, Schrieber plans to continue advocating for agricultural education and policy and use the foundation FFA gave her. But her heart will always remain with that iconic blue corduroy jacket.
“This jacket may come off, but the mission to serve, to grow and to lead never ends,” she says.
