MOUNT OLIVE – Morgan Simpson, a senior Agricultural Education student at the University of Mount Olive (UMO), has achieved national recognition by placing in the top four at the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) Young Farmers & Ranchers Collegiate Discussion Meet. This prestigious nationwide competition, held this year at the Sheraton Hotel in Denver, Colorado, brings together some of the most passionate and knowledgeable young minds in agriculture to draft solutions to complex challenges. In addition, attendees attend workshops, farm tours, and sessions featuring speakers like world-renowned animal scientist Dr. Temple Grandin.
Simpson, a native of Johnston County, North Carolina, grew up on her great-grandparents’ farmland. Although she was not directly involved in production agriculture, her love for the industry was ignited in seventh grade through her first agricultural education class at Meadow School. Her passion deepened while at South Johnston High School, where she was part of the IDEAL Academy, a program that partners with UMO to offer college courses. She was also actively involved in FFA, and took on leadership roles that solidified her decision to pursue a
career as an agricultural educator.
Simpson’s journey to the national stage began in her Agricultural Topics class at UMO, which uses discussion topics to dive deeper into complex agricultural issues. She competed in the regional collegiate discussion meet and earned her place in the North Carolina Farm Bureau state competition. There, she emerged as the 2024 State Collegiate Discussion Meet Winner. This victory secured her spot at the national level, marking her debut in the competition arena.
The Discussion Meet requires competitors to engage in structured discussions on pressing agricultural issues, such as farmland loss, succession planning, and domestic energy production. The participants must demonstrate knowledge, problem-solving skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively. Simpson’s performance in this rigorous format propelled her from the opening rounds through the top 16 and to the national Final Four for the AFBF Collegiate Discussion Meet.
Competing against top agricultural students from around the country presented its own set of challenges. The unpredictability of the discussion flow meant that Simpson had to be prepared for a wide range of perspectives and debate angles. To equip herself, she conducted extensive research, analyzed USDA census data, and conversed with agricultural professionals, including Rockingham County farmer and former National Discussion Meet finalist John Norwood and young farmers from North Carolina and California.
Throughout the competition, Simpson adapted her strategies, retreating to her hotel room after each round to refine her discussion points and opening statements. This dedication to preparation proved instrumental in her success.
Among the many topics discussed, Simpson found particular passion in addressing how to recruit and retain young Farm Bureau members. Reflecting on her own journey, she recalled initially perceiving Farm Bureau as merely an insurance provider. However, through the support of the Johnston County Farm Bureau and the NC Farm Bureau Federation, she came to understand its vital role in advocating for farmers and shaping agricultural policy.
“This question resonated with me because, as a future agricultural educator, I want to ensure that young people recognize the importance of organizations like Farm Bureau and become actively engaged in the industry’s future,” Simpson shared.
For Simpson, placing in the top four was an unexpected and humbling experience. “I still cannot believe it. There were so many talented individuals competing. I wasn’t even expecting to make it to the Sweet 16, let alone the Final Four,” she said.
Balancing her student teaching responsibilities with competition preparation was no easy feat, but the support from her mentors, peers, and family helped her persevere. She credits her time at UMO with providing her with invaluable hands-on experiences and networking opportunities that contributed to her success.
UMO President Dr. H. Edward Croom praised Simpson’s achievement, stating, “Morgan’s outstanding performance at the national level is a testament to her hard work, determination, and passion for agriculture. She exemplifies the excellence we strive to instill in all of our students, and we are incredibly proud of her accomplishment.”
In addition to her success in the Collegiate Discussion Meet, Farm Bureau has recognized Morgan as a strong student by selecting her as a recipient of the prestigious R. Flake Shaw Scholarship.
NC Farm Bureau President Shawn Harding said, “North Carolina Farm Bureau Federation is the largest agricultural non-profit organization in the state, representing over 650,000 families. The future of agriculture and our organization depends on the leadership of young people like Morgan Simpson. The knowledge, skills, and experience she gained in this competition will serve her well as a future leader in North Carolina agriculture and in Farm Bureau.”
Edward Olive, Director of the Lois G. Britt Agribusiness Center and Morgan’s Agricultural Topics course instructor, said, “Morgan has demonstrated remarkable knowledge and leadership in agriculture. Her ability to engage in thoughtful discussion on key industry issues shows her potential to make a significant impact as an agricultural educator. We are thrilled to see her represent UMO and the future of agriculture with such distinction.”
Following her May 2025 graduation from UMO, Simpson plans to pursue a master’s degree in Agricultural Education at NC State University. She hopes to continue competing in agricultural advocacy events, with her sights set on the NC Farm Bureau Discussion Meet in December, a competition for young farmers beyond the collegiate level.
Simpson is the daughter of Phillip and Heather Simpson of Newton Grove.
