SMYRNA, Tenn. (WGNS) – Smyrna High School agriculture teacher Jake Duke has been named to the National FFA Organization’s prestigious cohort of National Teacher Ambassadors for the 2025–2026 school year.

Duke is one of just 65 educators from 28 states selected for the honor and one of only four representatives from Tennessee.

“The National Teacher Ambassadors for FFA help inspire our next generation of leaders by engaging with agriculture educators, state and national FFA staff to further the innovation and passion that they bring to life in their classrooms across the country,” said Ambra Tennery, director of educational programs for FFA’s program and events division. “Their commitment empowers students and also strengthens local and statewide communities to ensure the future of agriculture will be bright.”

As part of the year-long ambassador program, Duke and his fellow ambassadors will serve as resources for more than 13,000 agriculture educators nationwide. Their responsibilities include leading webinars, mentoring fellow teachers, hosting workshops, and providing ongoing feedback to National FFA leadership based on their classroom experiences and regional needs.

This appointment highlights Duke’s continued commitment to agricultural education and student leadership development at Smyrna High and across Tennessee.