Page 18 - The Enthusiast Winter 24

The Thome Family’s Passion for Agriculture, Education, and Family Values
Cultivating Legacies:
Illuminating Success Stories from UNIVERSIty of Minnesota AECM Graduates
In the heart of southeast Minnesota, Gary and Jane Thome have cultivated a legacy deeply rooted in their passion for agriculture. The seeds of this passion were sown in their youth, growing up on family farms that instilled in them the values and love for the land that would shape their lives.
Together, Gary and Jane own and operate Thome Family Farms, a thriving corn and swine operation that has evolved from humble beginnings to a testament of hard work and dedication. Their sons, Matt, Pat, and Pete, work side by side with them, carrying forward the family legacy.
For the Thome family, the farm is more than a livelihood; it’s a symbol of their commitment to family.
Gary emphasizes, “Family is probably the most important thing in our lives.”
This sentiment is reflected not only in their family collaboration within their operation but also in the values they hold dear and seek to pass on. Gary and Jane take pride in the fact that their children and grandchildren have inherited this love, ensuring the continuity of their agricultural legacy.
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Beyond their daily responsibilities, Gary and Jane are deeply committed to the future of agriculture. Their support for an AECM Scholarship at the University of Minnesota showcases their belief in the importance of agricultural education.
Gary elaborates, "I just feel that it's probably one of the most important tasks, vocations and callings that you can have in life."
Gary reflects on his own journey into agricultural education. He shares how his early experiences in FFA and high school agriculture classes ignited his passion for teaching. The decision to pursue agricultural education at the University of Minnesota was a
natural choice, influenced by mentors and a seamless transition from a junior college.
After Gary’s education, he went on to be a wonderful and thoughtful teacher, so much so he has been honored with the highest award that an ag teacher can receive; the Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Association of Agricultural Educators in the 2021-2022 year.