Alpha Zeta

10/21/2026

Maxine Ferris: A Legacy of Learning and Leadership

10/19/2026

Leadership Monday: Maxine Ferris

Maxine Ferris believed knowledge was meant to be shared. With a PhD in communications, she became a professor and Director of Outreach Communications at Michigan State University, helping people connect with the university’s research and resources.

An Alpha Zeta member, Maxine co-authored Managing Extension Today and led seminars for new land grant university administrators. She was also a mentor who took a genuine interest in her students and colleagues.

Alpha Zeta named Maxine to its Centennial Honor Roll. We remember her for helping others learn, lead and be heard.

10/17/2026

Happy National Pasta Day! 🍝 From wheat grown in the field to the meal on your table, pasta has a story rooted in agriculture. Today we’re celebrating the farmers and everyone else who helps bring it to us.

What’s your favorite pasta dish?

10/12/2026

Leadership Monday: Orion Samuelson

Raised on a Wisconsin dairy farm, Orion Samuelson went on to become one of agriculture’s most familiar voices. He joined WGN Radio in 1960 and spent six decades helping listeners understand the issues affecting farmers and the food they grow.

His reporting reached audiences across the country through radio and television. He interviewed presidents and policymakers, but always kept farmers and their stories at the heart of his work. He also mentored young agricultural communicators who would carry that work forward.

Alpha Zeta named Samuelson to its Centennial Honor Roll in recognition of his contributions to agriculture. We remember him for making sure the people who feed us were heard.

10/08/2026

National 4H Week! Behind every 4-H member is someone who encouraged them to try, learn, and keep going. This Thankful Thursday, we’re celebrating the mentors, educators, and volunteers who make that possible. Tag someone you’d like to thank! 💚

10/05/2026

It’s Go Green Monday for National 4-H Week! Wear some green, share a photo, and show your support for the young people growing through 4-H. 💚

10/05/2026

10/04/2026

Happy National 4-H Week! Alpha Zeta celebrates the young people learning by doing, the volunteers who guide them, and the skills they’ll carry into the future. We’d love to hear from our members: What did 4-H teach you?

10/02/2026

Fall harvest is a season of long days, careful decisions and hard work. We’re grateful for the farmers and agricultural professionals bringing this year’s crops in.

What’s being harvested in your area?

10/01/2026

October is Farm to School Month! School gardens, local food, and hands-on lessons help students discover where their food comes from. Here’s to the farmers and educators making those connections possible.