When Bryce Grossen (center) accepted his American FFA Degree, he became the fourth and final member of his family to receive this accomplishment. Photo courtesy of Kari Grossen.
Among the small percentage of members and alums who receive the American FFA Degree — less than 1% — is a farming family in Wisconsin. Brad, Kari, Mitch and Bryce Grossen all walked across the national convention stage after meeting the degree program’s requirements, which include an outstanding Supervised Agricultural Experience project, as well as a commitment to leadership, community service and scholastic achievement.
From swine to dairy cattle to poultry, the Grossens are well-versed in many facets of production agriculture. Brad and Kari Grossen are second-generation FFA members and Juda FFA Alums, and Kari’s father, two older siblings and twin sister also received their American FFA Degrees.
Kari Grossen (right) helped instill a love of blue-and-gold traditions in her two sons. Photo courtesy of Kari Grossen.
In their experience, the positive influence of an advisor is integral to member and chapter success. Brad and Kari Grossen remember how their advisor, Ralph Johnson, encouraged them to pursue FFA opportunities, including the American FFA Degree.
“He helped lead us forward and really picked us up,” Brad Grossen says.
Brad Grossen (center) smiles with his American FFA Degree certificate. Photo courtesy of Kari Grossen.
FFA also instilled important life lessons in the couple’s two sons, Mitch and Bryce Grossen. Working with livestock and completing degrees taught these Monroe FFA Alums important character traits and values, such as hard work, loyalty and dedication. Today, Bryce and Mitch Grossen are succeeding in their respective jobs and showcasing the skills and work ethic they gained in FFA.
For those pursuing their American FFA Degrees in the future, Bryce Grossen says, “Just stay with it, no matter what happens. Gain as much experience as you can.”
Brad and Kari Grossen attended convention when Mitch Grossen (center) received his degree. Photo courtesy of Kari Grossen.
Don’t Miss Out!
The 98th National FFA Convention & Expo is coming soon. Bookmark this webpage to access a full event schedule and ensure you experience everything between the opening session on Oct. 29, 2025, and the American FFA Degree ceremony on Nov. 1, 2025.
The American FFA Degree is sponsored by corporate partners Cargill, Case IH, John Deere, Syngenta, Elanco and AGCO.
