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LINCOLN — A trio of Cedar County students will be among the 220 high school juniors and seniors across Nebraska selected to be a part of the Nebraska Agricultural Youth Institute (NAYI) this summer.
Kennedy Hall, Coleridge, Breah Steffen, Hartington and Lilly Pehrson, Laurel, will all take part in the July 7-11 event.
Put on by the Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA), NAYI brings together hundreds of students every year to learn more about Nebraska agriculture, network with ag leaders and explore career opportunities.
NDA selects students to attend NAYI based on their leadership skills, interests and involvement in agriculture. This year, NAYI will be held at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s East Campus.
“NAYI provides a unique opportunity to Nebraska high school students,” said NDA Director Sherry Vinton. “The Institute introduces young people to the many options that come from a career in agriculture as well as establishing lifelong connections and friendships. Our youth are the future of innovation and advancement in agriculture, and I am excited to see so many young people interested in our state’s largest industry.”
NAYI is in its 54th year, making it the longest running ag youth program of its kind in the nation.
This year’s theme is “It’s in Our Genes” and the Institute will feature motivational speakers, discussions on agricultural issues, career development, networking opportunities, leadership activities, as well as several hands-on learning opportunities and workshops.
NAYI is coordinated by the Nebraska Agricultural Youth Council (NAYC), which is comprised of 22 college-aged students selected by NDA for their passion and interest in the ag industry. During NAYI, NAYC members provide valuable guidance, insight and advice about agriculture, college coursework and career-building.
To learn more about NAYC or NAYI 2025, visit nda.nebraska. gov/nayi/. Follow NAYI activities on Facebook by searching and liking the Nebraska Agricultural Youth Institute and on Instagram by following @the_nayc or #NAYI25.
