Sioux City, IA – Dan Witten, Associate Professor of Applied Agricultural and Food Studies at Morningside University, was awarded the Honorary Iowa FFA Degree by the Iowa FFA Association during the 97th Iowa FFA Leadership Conference in Ames. This prestigious recognition is the highest honor the Iowa FFA Association bestows upon non-members, celebrating individuals who have provided exceptional service to agricultural education and the FFA mission.
Witten’s career in agricultural education spans more than 25 years and reflects a deep and sustained commitment to student development, experiential learning, and FFA programming. He began his career as an agricultural education instructor and FFA advisor, serving the Westwood Community School District for nearly two decades, where he led a highly successful chapter recognized with multiple state and national honors.
Under his leadership, students achieved success in Career Development Events, earned national chapter recognition, and secured competitive grants that supported innovative, service-based learning experiences. His work consistently emphasized hands-on learning, leadership development, and community engagement—hallmarks of the FFA mission.
Since joining Morningside University in 2018, Witten has continued to shape the next generation of agricultural professionals and educators through teaching, advising, and applied research. His courses span animal science, agricultural education, and emerging technologies, including precision agriculture and drone operations, providing students with both technical expertise and real-world application opportunities.
In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Witten remains actively engaged in agricultural education and FFA at the state level. He currently serves on the Iowa FFA Board of Directors and contributes regularly as a judge, mentor, and advocate for agricultural youth programs across the region.
“Dan’s impact on agricultural education in Iowa is both deep and far-reaching,” said Dr. Thomas Paulsen, Dean of the School of Agriculture and Aviation at Morningside University. “His decades of dedicated service to students, his leadership within FFA, and his commitment to experiential, hands-on learning exemplify the very best of our profession. This recognition is a direct reflection of the difference he has made in the lives of countless students and the strength he brings to agricultural education across our state.”
“FFA has always been about more than agriculture—it’s about leadership, service, and preparing students for meaningful careers,” said Witten. “I am honored to support this organization and grateful to be part of a community that continues to make a lasting impact on students across Iowa.”
The Honorary Iowa FFA Degree recognizes individuals who go above and beyond in their support of agricultural education, providing time, expertise, and leadership that strengthen opportunities for students and educators statewide.