For only the second time in nearly 70 years, a Bolivar student will lead the Missouri FFA Association. During the 98th Missouri FFA Convention held in late April, Ellie Samek was elected by her peers to serve as the 2026-2027 State FFA President, the highest leadership office within the organization’s 27,000-member state association.

Samek, the daughter of John and Shelia Samek, is only the 10th state officer in the history of the Bolivar FFA chapter and the first to hold the presidency since Bob Stewart served in 1958-59. Her election follows a rigorous three-day evaluation process that tested her agricultural knowledge, public speaking abilities, and leadership philosophy.

“As a freshman, standing on the Bolivar FFA stage reciting the FFA creed, to performing closing ceremonies as the Missouri FFA State President, I see how much every person, contest, and interaction has meant over the past four years,” Samek said. “Reaching this achievement has shown me a new definition of success. It is no longer based around the title or plaque, but the impact I can make on Missouri FFA in the upcoming year.”

Samek’s resume of service is extensive. She currently serves as Bolivar’s senior class president and previously served as the Area X FFA President. Her involvement spans a wide array of organizations, including the National Honor Society, Student Council, FBLA, and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. She is also a prominent leader in 4-H, serving as president of both the Woodlawn 4-H Club and the Polk County 4-H Council, as well as the Youth Liaison for the Polk County Extension Council.

In addition to her leadership roles, Samek has excelled in the technical and scientific aspects of the organization. As the area Agriscience Star winner, her Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) involves raising Cornish Cross Broiler chickens for local consumers, as well as providing labor for her family’s cow/calf and row crop operation.

“Ellie is one of the most decorated FFA members we have had at Bolivar,” said Ashley Brown, Bolivar FFA advisor. “Her success is the direct result of countless hours of hard work, a willingness to step outside her comfort zone, and a genuine passion for learning and growing within agricultural education. She sets high standards for herself and meets them with integrity, perseverance, and humility.”

Advisor Jason King echoed those sentiments, noting her influence on her peers. “Ellie is a natural leader. She shows up to every activity with a positive energy that is contagious. Her strong work ethic and kindness are great examples for those around her,” King said. “Ellie just might be the president of the United States one day.”

Samek will begin her year of service immediately, traveling across the state and country to represent Missouri agriculture. This fall, she plans to attend the University of Missouri – Columbia to pursue a degree in Agriculture Education.