University of Idaho Agricultural Education, Leadership, and Communications

Brave and bold-- a mindset that the Vandals and Vandal Alumna, Rikki Ruiz both share. The mindset of never underestimating your potential has led Ruiz and her small business, The Frosted Cowgirls Boutique to success.  The Pocatello, Idaho native now calls New Plymouth, Idaho home and will always be a proud member of the Vandal family. After receiving a masters in Agricultural Education with a focus on agricultural communications and industry relations and a Bachelors in Agricultural Business, Ruiz began her career and spent 12 years as a University of Idaho Extension Educator. During this time, she also created the western fashion boutique, The Frosted Cowgirls.  The Frosted Cowgirls Boutique was founded almost 12 years ago and has grown to have a storefront in Fruitland, Idaho, an online store and a mobile boutique that travels to rodeos across the region. Ruiz expressed her passion for her small business in stating, “ If someone feels beautiful, their confidence lifts, and t...

According to the National FFA Association, "Individuals who have provided exceptional service on a national level to agriculture, agricultural education, or FFA are eligible for the Honorary American FFA Degree. Additionally, teachers who have created high-quality agricultural education programs which inspire and motivate their students to strive for success are eligible". The award is among the highest of honors within the FFA organization.  University of Idaho Agricultural Education and Extension faculty member, Dr. Kattlyn Wolf received the Honorary American FFA Degree during the 91 st National FFA Convention. When asked about her history in FFA Dr. Kattlyn Wolf responded with “This is the fun one!!  I was a relatively “late bloomer” in FFA. I completed in multiple CDE’s- but never really was a stand-out member or student.  I served as a chapter officer my senior year, and competed at the State level in Extemp speaking.  I placed second and fully expected...