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Ag Instructor Named Finalist for Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s 35 Under 35 Award

Mary Fronek recognized for leadership in sustainable agriculture, education and community engagement

Mary Fronek

Fox Valley Technical College Agriculture Instructor Mary Fronek has been named as a finalist in the Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s 35 Under 35 Award program.

The program recognizes the creativity and innovation of young farmers and agriculturists who are preserving agriculture through leadership in environmental, social and economic activities.

Mary, who serves as the Department Chair for the FVTC Agribusiness, Agronomy and Animal Science programs, was recognized for her work in sustainable service and agriculture education. 

“As ag educators, we help make the future of farming and our communities stronger by teaching students how to care for the land, animals and resources we depend on,” she says. 

In addition to teaching, Mary coordinates the Agriculture Job Fair each year for students, an event she launched. She also participates in K-12 events and hosts agriculture summer camps. She is Vice President of the Wisconsin’s Cattlemen’s Association and organizes the Winter Conference and Summer Tour to engage community and members of the association. 

Mary is a member of Langlade County Farm Bureau and was nominated by a fellow Farm Bureau member. She earned bachelor’s degrees in biology and psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, and a master’s degree in Career and Technical Education from the University of Wisconsin-Stout.

“I’m extremely honored to be on this list,” she says. “I have been nominated and applied for this for many years, and this is my first year making it be a finalist.”

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