Cooperative Hall of Fame Celebration & Annual Meeting

FFA Public Speaking Competition

The Missouri Institute of Cooperatives (MIC) hosts an annual public speaking competition for Missouri FFA members to promote awareness of the cooperative business model.

Students interview a local cooperative representative, identify a current challenge, and propose a solution in a 6–8 minute speech. Finalists compete at local, area, district, and state levels, with cash prizes awarded to top performers.

📄 Click here for full contest details (PDF)

Questions? Contact Jill Moreland at MorelandJ@Missouri.edu.

Join us on Thursday, November 6, 2025, in Columbia, Missouri, for the Missouri Institute of Cooperatives Annual Business Meeting and Cooperative Hall of Fame Celebration. The evening will feature the induction of four leaders into the Missouri Cooperative Hall of Fame: Ernie Verslues (MFA Inc.), Chris Hamon (White River Valley Electric Cooperative), Dan Singletary (Howell-Oregon Electric Cooperative), and Dr. Michael Cook (FCS Financial).

We’ll also hear from guest speaker Ben Brown, University of Missouri Extension Economist, before concluding the evening with the annual business meeting. The celebration will be held at Bradford Research Farm, beginning with a social hour at 5:00 p.m., dinner at 6:00, and the program at 6:30. Space is limited—reserve your spot today! Registration is $100 per person.