(FRANKFORT, KY) – Matt Chaliff was selected as the Outstanding FFA Executive Secretary by the National Association of Supervisors of Agricultural Education at the group’s annual conference in Indianapolis.

This recognition is given annually to an individual who has made a significant impact as a state-level leader in agricultural education. Chaliff works in the Kentucky Department of Education’s (KDE) Office of Career and Technical Education and Student Transition.

“Matt is one of the most respected agricultural education state staff members in the country,” Kentucky FFA State Adviser Brandon Davis said. “His advice and insight are often sought out by other state FFA associations and by staff of the National FFA Organization. In this state we are blessed to have someone guiding the FFA that brings so much passion and drive to their work every single day. He is very deserving of this recognition.”

In a letter of support for Chaliff’s nomination, Kentucky FFA Foundation Executive Director Sheldon McKinney wrote, “His work here shows that even after many years in his role, he has not grown stagnant. He truly believes in personal and professional growth for himself, our staff, officers and teachers. We are continuing to grow because of his example.”

For the past 15 years, Chaliff has served as a program consultant for agricultural education at KDE. As the state’s FFA executive secretary, where he manages the day-to-day operations of the Kentucky FFA Association, he is responsible for coordinating all competitive events, leadership conferences and the annual state convention. Chaliff also provides support to the 281 agriculture teachers in the state.

Prior to coming to KDE, Chaliff taught agriculture at Taylor County High School. He and his wife Julie live in Mount Vernon and have two children, Anna Grace and Ben.