Photo by Jim Muchlinski Mary Lanoue, a junior at Marshall High School, is the new regional FFA president. She’ll serve a one year term that concludes next spring.

MARSHALL — When Marshall High School student Mary Lanoue set her sights on a leadership position in regional FFA, she decided to think big.

She began a one-year term this week as the new regional FFA president. The region includes high school FFA chapters from throughout southwestern Minnesota.

Lanoue previously served in a regional office during the past year. Her experience made her want to try for the role of regional president.

“I enjoyed my regional role,” Lanoue said. “It’s an opportunity to get to know people from the other FFA chapters. I wanted to stay involved and to serve as a leader.”

She completed a detailed application process; one that included a resume, cover letter, and recommendations from advisors and school officials. She was chosen by a selection committee representing the different regional FFA chapters. Her term started this week at the Minnesota State FFA Convention.

During the upcoming year, she’ll take part in meetings with her officer team and also Minnesota’s adult FFA team. She said she’ll emphasize the 2023 convention theme “All In for All,” which promotes the inclusiveness of FFA activities.

“It emphasizes that FFA can offer opportunities for everyone,” Lanoue said. “Someone doesn’t have to have crops and livestock in order to belong. FFA offers many different possiblities for leadership and for career exploration.”

She said individual FFA members can choose their own path based on their interests. Those who put forth substantial amounts of time and effort are likely to see a wide range of rewards.

“I like the sense of community that’s associated with FFA,” she said. “People I’ve met through FFA have become some of my very best friends. We’ve shared good laughs and have had valuable experiences such as the opportunity to compete at nationals.”

Marshall FFA adviser Jon Schreurs said Lanoue brings many useful qualities to her role as FFA’s regional president.

He said she has a combination of interpersonal skills and a strong work ethic. That set of qualities will enable her to contribute as students and adults set goals for FFA on the regional level.

Mary is a very good speaker and a positive leader,” Schreurs said. “She believes in teamwork. She communicates very well with everyone. Whenever she’s needed for something, she shines bright.”