Agriculture Students Represent WIU at National PAS Conference

Western Illinois University Agriculture students Elleanor Robinson and Adam Vail participated in the 2025 National Professional Agricultural Student Organization (PAS) Conference held on March 17-20, in Sheridan, WY.

The PAS National Conference is a gathering of nearly 600 career-ready professional agricultural students, their collegiate advisors and industry representatives.

WIU made a good impression this year with the participation of two outstanding students, Elleanor Robinson and Adam Vail, who worked hard to represent the school in a strong positive manner.

“We are extremely proud of both Adam and Elleanor for taking the time and effort to prepare for this national competition and to showcase their skill sets at the national level,” WIU Ag Director Andy Baker said. “This is a difficult competition as students are coming across the country to compete in different content areas. I certainly hope we can continue to support our students by providing opportunities, like the National PAS Conference, so they can attend professional development events and represent Western Illinois University at the national level.”

Vail qualified to compete in the individual Prepared Public Speaking event and earned a 6th-place finish.

“Getting the privilege to compete in public speaking against the best of the best in the country was quite a fulfilling experience. PAS has allowed me to sharpen my skills as an agriculture student and provided me with memories that will resonate with me for the rest of my life. If there is one thing I can promise, it’s that the best is yet to come and we will be back next year,” Vail said.

Robinson, also participated in the individual events, qualified to compete in Animal Health/Vet Tech Specialist and placed 11th.

“Being able to attend the National PAS was a tremendous honor, and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to represent my school and community. This experience has not only allowed me to grow academically but also pushed me to connect with like-minded students. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to participate in such an incredible event and thankful to everyone who has supported me along the way,” Robinson said.

To learn more about WIU’s agriculture programs, visit wiu.edu/Ag.

***Courtesy of Western Illinois University***