FREEPORT — Nine Highland Community College students headed out west for their spring break to compete at the 2025 National Professional Agriculture Student (PAS) Conference held March 17-20, 2025, at Sheridan College in Sheridan, Wyo.  

“The trip started with a flight to Bozeman, Mont., where students enjoyed sightseeing and shopping. After a few hours in a rental van to reach the conference, our students got down to business and spent the next three days competing with 500 other college students from across the country,” said Justin Ebert, Highland Ag Club and PAS Advisor.

Students participated in 9 different competition areas, which concluded with an outstanding showing in the college quiz bowl. They celebrated with more sightseeing in the mountains and a steak dinner, followed by a safe return flight to Illinois. 

Ebert said, “I am very proud of all the work the students put into their preparation for the competitions. The trip allowed them to network with other college students, refine their leadership and communication skills and explore the beauty of the American west.”

Competitors included:

●  Taylor Robinson, Lena, Ill.; National Champion: Agriculture Education Teaching Demonstration; National Champion: Agriculture Education Career Progress Project

●  Rebekah Visel, Lena, Ill.; 4th Place: Animal Systems Career Planning Project; 11th Place: Ag Sales Interview

Team placewinners included:

●  Sheep/Goat Team — 5th Place

●  Dairy Team — 6th Place

●  Equine Team — 9th Place

Highland Community College Agriculture would like to thank the administration, board, Foundation, Anthony Musso, Zachary Green, Hannah Slamp, parents, and the community for supporting both preparation for the conference and the trip itself.

The PAS Organization is a national student organization that provides opportunities for college agriculture students to experience individual growth, leadership, and career preparation through competition and cooperative activities. Launched in 1980, it includes students from 2-year and 4-year agriculture colleges from across the United States. For more information on the Highland Community College Agriculture Program or the PAS Organization, contact Justin Ebert at justin.ebert@highland.edu.