NY Ag Teacher Wins 'Golden Owl' Award

Mary Coolbaugh recognized for profound impact on students at Marcus Whitman High School

Mar. 31, 2026 at 1:09pm

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A brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen print of an iconic farming tool such as a pitchfork or tractor, repeated in a tight grid pattern against a bold, neon color background, conceptually representing the important role of agricultural education.A vibrant celebration of the agricultural educators who are cultivating the next generation of farmers and industry leaders.NYC Today

Mary Coolbaugh, an agriculture teacher at Marcus Whitman High School in New York, has been awarded the district-level 'Golden Owl Award' by the New York FFA Leadership Training Foundation for her exceptional work in cultivating the next generation of agricultural leaders. Coolbaugh, who also advises the school's FFA chapter and guides the maple syrup operation, was praised for her dedication to providing students with opportunities to learn and grow both inside and outside the classroom.

Why it matters

The Golden Owl Award aims to recognize outstanding agricultural educators who are making a significant impact on their students and communities. By highlighting Coolbaugh's achievements, the award brings attention to the vital role that agricultural education plays in preparing young people for careers in the industry and promoting agricultural literacy among the general public.

The details

Coolbaugh was one of nine district-level winners of the Golden Owl Award, which comes with a $500 prize and plaque. The overall state winner, who will be announced at the FFA state convention in May, will receive a $3,000 check. Coolbaugh was praised for going above and beyond her classroom duties, devoting time outside of school to guide students in FFA activities and career development events.

  • Coolbaugh was surprised with the award presentation on March 26, 2026.
  • The overall state winner of the Golden Owl Award will be announced on May 16, 2026 at the FFA state convention in Buffalo.

The players

Mary Coolbaugh

An agriculture teacher at Marcus Whitman High School who was recognized with the district-level Golden Owl Award for her profound impact on students.

Ava Gage

A junior at Marcus Whitman High School and the president of the school's FFA chapter, who praised Coolbaugh's dedication to guiding students both in and out of the classroom.

Owen Grefrath

A sophomore at Marcus Whitman High School who is running for district president of FFA, and credits Coolbaugh's support and preparation for helping him through the process.

Todd Lighthall

The executive director of the New York FFA Leadership Training Foundation, which partnered with Nationwide Insurance and New York Farm Bureau to present the Golden Owl Award.

New York FFA Leadership Training Foundation

The organization that presents the Golden Owl Award to recognize outstanding agricultural educators in New York.

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What they’re saying

“These teachers are models of hard work and community service who are cultivating the next generation of agricultural leaders.”

— Todd Lighthall, Executive Director, New York FFA Leadership Training Foundation

“She helps everybody. She's always willing to lend a hand.”

— Ava Gage, Junior, Marcus Whitman High School FFA President

“I would not be able to make it through this process without her.”

— Owen Grefrath, Sophomore, Marcus Whitman High School

What’s next

The overall state winner of the Golden Owl Award, who will receive a $3,000 check, will be announced on May 16, 2026 at the FFA state convention in Buffalo.

The takeaway

The Golden Owl Award highlights the crucial role that agricultural educators like Mary Coolbaugh play in inspiring the next generation of farmers, agricultural leaders, and informed consumers. By going above and beyond to engage students both in and out of the classroom, these teachers are making a profound impact on their communities and the future of the industry.