“Our food, fiber and fuel supply all depend on the future of these bright young people,” says Jim Korin, president of NAU Country—a five-star corporate partner of the National FFA Foundation.
When NAU Country—the crop division of QBE Insurance Company—decided to support the National FFA Organization, this notion was a top consideration. A generous gift from the QBE Foundation made the philanthropic connection with FFA possible.
Their support of the American FFA Degree program, among other programs, helps recognize members with outstanding leadership skills and exceptional agricultural knowledge.
Korin, who was an integral player as a champion of the new partnership, says, “The agriculture profession is noble, vibrant and essential for all.”
Since they signed on in early 2021, the company and its employees have been actively engaged in FFA activities, such as judging for national competitions. Many serve as volunteers and supporters at local chapters and regional events. In 2021 and 2022, the company exhibited at the National FFA Convention & Expo, with several NAU Country employees staffing the booth.
As a nationwide company based in Minnesota, and in reflecting the values of their parent company, it was important to NAU Country to ensure their employees’ wishes were also met.
“We want to invest our time and funds into an organization that our employees are passionate about. It’s important for them to be involved in giving back and strengthening our communities,” explains Michelle Adams, business support manager at NAU Country. “With so many of our employees being FFA Alumni and farmers to this day, it was the perfect match!”
As the primary risk management tool for farmers, crop insurance plays a significant role in American agriculture. Former FFA members, Adams says, are an asset to NAU Country in many ways.
“They understand the many depths and layers of farming and agriculture and are able to use that background to provide superior customer service to our insureds (farmers),” continues Adams.
Though the partnership is new between QBE/NAU Country and National FFA, its positive effect is already deeply resonating with both entities.
Dave Paul, vice president of underwriting at NAU Country and a member of the National FFA Foundation Sponsors’ Board, is confident the partnership between NAU Country and FFA will impact today’s agricultural landscape.
Paul says, “It’s vital for NAU Country to support FFA and the next generation of farmers, ranchers and agricultural industry leaders. These young FFA members will become our leaders at the local, state, and national levels, shaping our industry for years to come.”
Jordan Atkinson, senior vice president of NAU Country branch operations, agrees, “I can’t think of a better organization that we could invest our precious resources into. It has been a pleasure working closely with FFA to see that our youth receive the attention and resources they so greatly need.”
Atkinson continues, “We are very excited about the future of the relationship between QBE/NAU Country and FFA. Their legacy and the impact that they have on both rural and urban agriculture are something that we are honored to be associated with.”
