By Andi Anderson
Delaney Cooney, an agricultural education student at Purdue University, is working toward a future where she can help students discover their strengths and career opportunities through agriculture. Inspired by the support she received as a student, Cooney hopes to create the same positive impact for future generations.
Growing up in Columbus, Indiana, Cooney developed a strong interest in agriculture through her involvement in FFA. A supportive high school FFA advisor played an important role in helping her understand her abilities and explore career options in the agricultural field.
Reflecting on that experience, Cooney said, “My advisor poured encouragement, care and passion into my FFA experience. He created an environment where I could grow professionally, learn more about agriculture and discover the career that suited me.”
Motivated by that guidance, Cooney chose to study agricultural education at Purdue University. In addition to her major, she is pursuing a minor in organizational leadership and a certificate in agricultural leadership and professional development. After graduation, she hopes to teach agriculture at the high school level and is considering opportunities with organizations such as National FFA, Indiana FFA, Indiana Farm Bureau, or Purdue Extension.
Purdue's combination of classroom learning, hands-on experiences, guest speakers, student organizations, and alumni connections attracted Cooney to the university. However, one of the aspects she values most is the strong sense of community among students.
“Students in Purdue Ag stick together,” Cooney said. “We see each other in classes, club meetings, social gatherings and across campus. There is almost always a familiar face nearby, and that makes it feel a lot like home.”
Throughout her college experience, Cooney has been actively involved in Purdue Ag Council, Purdue Collegiate Farm Bureau, Purdue Agronomy Club, and Sigma Alpha. These organizations have provided opportunities to build leadership skills, attend conferences, participate in events, and develop lasting friendships.
A significant learning experience came through a course that placed her in a classroom serving English language learners at a local middle school. Through observation and research, she gained a better understanding of the challenges some students face and the importance of inclusive teaching practices.
“I became more aware of the challenges these and other students face,” Cooney said. “The experience helped equip me to teach every student who comes into my future classroom.”
Faculty support has also played an important role in her development. Lee Schweitzer, Professor of Agronomy at Purdue University, provided guidance during a crop production systems course. Since Cooney did not grow up on a farm, some concepts were unfamiliar. Schweitzer's support helped her strengthen her understanding and confidence.
“He never let me feel like I was going to fail,” she said. “He always offered a helping hand and paid attention to where I needed more support.”
These academic and leadership experiences have strengthened Cooney's communication, organization, critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership abilities. As she prepares for a career in education, she remains committed to helping students explore their potential and build confidence in their future.
Looking ahead, Cooney hopes to create a positive and encouraging classroom environment where students can learn, grow, and pursue their goals.
“Agricultural education is an incredibly rewarding major that opens a lot of doors,” she said. “The opportunities to learn and grow are limitless.”
Through dedication, leadership, and a passion for education, Delaney Cooney is preparing to become an educator who empowers future agricultural leaders and helps students imagine the opportunities that lie ahead.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-poike
Categories: Indiana, Education