Logan Johns Makes a Big Impact in a Small Town

Logan Johns.

For members and families at Meeker Public Schools in Oklahoma, FFA has meant more than livestock shows, competitions and leadership events. Under the guidance of Meeker FFA advisor Logan Johns, it has become a place where students found confidence, belonging and a purpose for who they are meant to be.

Parents say Johns’ impact reached far beyond academics or agriculture instruction in the classroom. Mandie Howeth, for example, described him as a steady presence during some of the most challenging years of adolescence.

“In one of the hardest eras of their lives, Logan was there to help navigate the ups and downs when I couldn’t always be there as a parent,” she says. Howeth credits him with instilling confidence in shy, insecure students and helping them rediscover passion and purpose during difficult middle and high school years.

Howeth also emphasized the level of care Johns showed toward individual students. She recalled receiving messages when her child seemed “a little off,” noting that such awareness is rare in large FFA chapters. “Mr. Johns notices the differences, he listens and he takes the time to make sure they’re understood,” she says.

Johns brings high energy to events, which encourages members to get involved.

Ashlie Gregg says her first impression of Johns was unforgettable. “When I first saw Mr. J interact with students, I thought he was some kind of Disney character,” she adds, describing his energy and ability to connect with students on their level. Over time, she noticed how respected he is among fellow advisors and competitors at various competitions.

“When you go to contests, he always has a group of people around him. He knows his stuff,” Gregg says, adding that his experience at the highest levels of FFA leadership reassured her that her daughters were in excellent hands.

Another parent, Kacy Hurley, shared how Johns changed her student’s life through unique opportunities. When he invited Hurley’s daughter to attend the National FFA Convention & Expo, it was the first time she had ever traveled overnight without her parents due to medical needs. Johns took the time to learn how to properly care for her needs and expressed confidence that she was ready for the experience.

“His belief in her changed everything,” Hurley says. “She came home more confident than ever, and that experience still shapes how she sees herself today.”

Johns at national convention with members after Blake Weeks won the national swine production proficiency award. Pictured left to right are Logan Johns, Mattie Hurley, Baylee Weeks, Blake Weeks, Stevie Buoy and Devyn Frazier.

Members shared that belief and encouragement were consistent throughout their time in the program. Former Meeker FFA member Brynna Raines, for example, says she entered the program as a shy eighth grader who was afraid to compete.

“I left as a senior who was extremely active because he always pushed me to step out of my comfort zone,” she adds. One of Raines’ favorite memories was raising broiler chickens during her senior year.

Johns and Brynna Raines celebrate her accomplishments.

Amos Grimes also credits Johns with helping him come out of his shell. “I didn’t really want to talk to people or make friends,” Grimes says. “Mr. Johns gave me the push I needed.”

He also says Johns taught him how to communicate confidently and treat others with kindness. One lesson stands out most: “Be the man you would be proud of today, and always give a helping hand,” Grimes says.

Rylee Pryor and Amos Grimes pictured with Johns. Lots of smiles after celebrating the year’s hard work.

These are just a few examples of how Johns has impacted the lives of everyone around him, and he continues to do so every single day when his students walk through his classroom door. For the past six years, Johns has built the Meeker FFA Chapter to the best of his ability, and will continue to help members grow and better themselves because of the energy he brings every day.

You can follow Johns’ journey and accomplishments with Meeker FFA by following the chapter’s Facebook page.