A Veterinary Services Inc. executive with deep roots in FFA has been named Oregon FFA’s new CEO.

Kjer Kizer will succeed Phil Ward, who will retire in July after more than three years leading the organization.

“I really credit my skill set that I have now, even in my professional career today, to my time as an FFA member. I’m excited to serve an organization that gave me so much,” Kizer said.

FFA played a huge role in her childhood growing up in Joseph, Ore., and shaped who she became, she said.

Her parents weren’t involved in agriculture, but Kizer said she learned there was so much more to FFA than just the farming aspect.

Besides being a member in the Joseph FFA Chapter during high school, she was Oregon FFA’s state treasurer in 2000-01 before enrolling at Oregon State University.

She worked for the National FFA presenting leadership development conferences during and after college.

Praying on the decision

Kizer, who lives in Halsey, Ore., is VSI’s director of employee and partner relations. She has worked for the company at its office in Millersburg, Ore., since 2014.

She said she wasn’t looking to leave VSI but couldn’t turn down the opportunity to lead Oregon FFA.

“My husband and I really prayed about it and thought it was the right decision,” she said.

Kizer is a recipient of the State FFA Degree and American FFA Degree — the organization’s highest degrees at the state and national levels.

She also has been honored for volunteer efforts and leadership in support of several FFA chapters, including Condon, Grant Union and Central Linn. She volunteers with other youth organizations, as well, such as 4-H.

Kizer and her husband have two teenagers who raise and show livestock.

Long-term leadership

Kirk Maag, chairman of Oregon FFA’s joint board, noted Kizer’s passion and enthusiasm for agricultural education, as well as her experience managing teams and people.

“What I think Kjer brings to the position is just a combination of skills and experience. One thing we’re so excited about is she’s a product of Oregon FFA,” Maag said.

“She has a deep understanding of the organization and its mission,” he added.

He said that he hopes Ward will continue as a senior advisor for the organization to ensure a smooth and effective transition.

“We’ve been really fortunate to have the steady, visionary leadership of Phil Ward for more than three years now. I’m really excited about a pretty seamless transition,” Maag said.

Ward, a former director of the Oregon Department of Agriculture among other prominent roles, led Oregon FFA to record membership and fundraising during his tenure.

Maag said Kizer could be with Oregon FFA for the long term.

“Her passion and enthusiasm will likely push Oregon FFA forward for a long time to come,” he added.

Kizer said her intention is to retire from the position.

Aaron Duff, a former ag educator and current superintendent of the Milton-Freewater Unified School District, led the CEO search committee.

He said several applicants demonstrated exceptional qualifications.

“Kjer brings a well-rounded set of skills and experiences. Her FFA background, agriculture industry experience and demonstrated service leadership will help her meet the needs of the organization now and into the future,” he added, in the news release.

Ward said he was thrilled that Kizer will be his successor.

“She has an impressive FFA background, real world agribusiness experience and proven relationship-building skills. I have no doubt she will do a wonderful job in this important role,” Ward said, in the news release.

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