Sierra Koski, volunteer, (left) and Devani Hinkelmann (right) pose by the banner displaying the new inclusive show at the county fair.
It takes a good leader to overcome obstacles, face fears, and be bold, but it takes a great leader to stand out, be an inspiration, and create opportunities that make all feel welcome. Devani Hinkelmann did just that.
First Steps Into FFA
From the small town of Loyal, Wisconsin, Hinkelmann felt as though she had to change who she was to find “her people.” However, her experience in FFA completely turned that around. Her journey started in seventh grade when she joined the organization. Hinkelmann was an involved member, recalling that working with students in Food for America was one of her favorite events; it even influenced her to become an agriculture teacher. Furthermore, she explains, “Seeing their eyes light up when they accomplish something great or learn something new is an unforgettable experience. FFA showed me that there are so many students in the world that want to learn about agriculture and its vast opportunities; they just need teachers to educate them.”
This was only the beginning of Hinkelmann’s journey. During March of her senior year in high school, two National FFA Officers (Cortney Zimmerman and Jackson Sylvester) visited her chapter and spent time with her officer team. They encouraged her to run for state office, which she had never considered. After much convincing, she decided to run, not knowing that this was the start of a “wild, life-changing ride.”
2022-23 Wisconsin State FFA Officer Team
Deservedly so, Hinkelmann served as a 2022-23 Wisconsin FFA state vice president. She cherished her time in this position as much as a Wisconsinite loves cheese—and that’s a lot!
Living to Serve
As a state officer, Hinkelmann developed strong relationships with others, effectively advocated for the future of agriculture, was inclusive and valued everyone’s ideas, and made a lasting impact on those she connected with. An inspired fellow member, Colter Rueth, from her chapter, reflects, “When I was a seventh grader, Devani would always be there for me when I needed it. She was always positive and was such an amazing leader. Even now, as Devani is an alumni, she is still so involved in our chapter and is willing to help whenever needed.”
Hinkelmann continues to stay active within FFA, whether judging contests or helping events run smoothly. One of her proudest moments was creating the Clark County Fair Special Drive to include students with special needs. Hinkelmann hoped to “gift the opportunity of showing to individuals throughout the county with special needs that prohibited them from showing on their own.” The students were paired with an exhibitor to learn the basics of showing a pig, and later that day, they showed off their skills in a mini show. Thanks to support from the community, the show was entirely free for participants. The impact of the Special Drive was immeasurable; it brought so much joy into the fair and a smile to everyone’s faces.
Thank you, Hinkelmann, for showing Wisconsin what Living to Serve truly means!
