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Lori Romie of Ridgeway is one of 15 farmers and agribusiness professionals selected to participate in Ohio Farm Bureau’s 2025-2026 AgriPOWER Institute.

AgriPOWER is designed for farmers and agribusiness professionals. The program focuses on issues that are relevant to the farm and food industry such as consumer relations, regulations, energy, and trade policies. In AgriPOWER, individuals develop the skills necessary to become effective leaders and advocates for agriculture by learning from experts in these fields.

Romie is an agricultural educator and FFA advisor with Ridgemont Local Schools, where she teaches students in grades 7–12. Through classroom instruction, hands-on learning experiences and FFA programming, she works to equip students with the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to advocate for agriculture and the food industry. Under her leadership, the Ridgemont FFA chapter has earned national recognition, including being named the top FFA chapter in the nation within the Model of Innovation category, along with numerous state and national awards.

Her leadership extends beyond the classroom through service as a National FFA teacher ambassador, president of Ohio Association of Agricultural Educators 6th district, and secretary of the Hardin County Farm Bureau. Romie is also involved in developing statewide agribusiness curriculum through a grant-funded initiative, and volunteers with county and state fair programming. 

“These individuals have already made their mark on Ohio agriculture, and I am excited that they want to take their leadership skills to the next level,” said Marlene Eick, director of AgriPOWER. “This program will not only give participants a deeper understanding of the farm and food sector here in Ohio and across the country, it will also give them the tools they need to become even stronger advocates for an industry they are already passionate about.”

One of the sessions will take place in Washington, D.C., to give participants a better understanding of national and global issues, and an out-of-state session in California will help them learn about the differences and similarities in agriculture outside of Ohio.

Partnering with Ohio Farm Bureau on AgriPOWER Class XVI are Ohio Corn & Wheat, AgCredit, Ohio Farm Bureau Foundation, Ohio Soybean Council, and heritage partner Nationwide.

This is a news release for use by journalists. Questions should be directed to Ryan Matthews, 614-246-8210 or [email protected].

Editors: A high-resolution photo of Lori Romie is available for download.