By Tayden VanPelt – Mia Heilman is bringing her background in agricultural education and production agriculture to Morningside University as the new Agricultural Facilities and Experiential Learning Coordinator in the Applied Agricultural and Food Studies department. Heilman’s position focuses on maintaining and expanding the university’s agricultural facilities while creating hands-on learning opportunities that connect students’ classroom experiences with real-world agriculture. One of Heilman’s primary responsibilities is overseeing the greenhouse and garden facilities. The greenhouse is one of her favorite spaces on campus because it can be used throughout the year and provides students with opportunities to gain practical experience.
“I’m excited to provide opportunities for students, hands-on learning for application to the future through teaching and coordinating,” Heilman said.
Since beginning her position, Heilman has also become involved in student activities such as the garden club and bouquet nights. She said increasing student attendance and participation in these activities has been encouraging. Beyond the greenhouse and garden, Heilman is working with students through AGRI 130 and exploring opportunities such as job shadowing and other experiential learning activities. She also works with colleagues on alumni and outreach efforts. A major goal of her position is to help students become more aware of Morningside’s agricultural facilities and the opportunities available to them.
“I’m looking forward to getting to know each of you and creating opportunities for you to learn, get involved, and gain real-world agricultural experiences while you are at Morningside,” Heilman said.
Heilman’s interest in agricultural education began while growing up on a beef farm in northeast Iowa. Her involvement in youth organizations, particularly FFA, further shaped her career path. She served as the 2021-22 Iowa FFA state president, an experience that strengthened her interest in investing in and educating young people about agriculture. She went on to earn a degree in Agricultural and Life Sciences Education from Iowa State University. Before joining Morningside, Heilman spent two years teaching agriculture and business and serving as an FFA adviser in Correctionville. After working in secondary education, Heilman said she was ready for a different pace and a new professional challenge. Her new position allows her to continue working with students while incorporating more hands-on agricultural experiences.
Her connection to production agriculture also continues outside of Morningside. Heilman and her husband, Trey, operate a farm about 50 minutes east of Sioux City, where they raise crops, cattle and hay. Heilman said her experiences on the farm and in the classroom have helped prepare her for the variety of responsibilities that come with her new position.
“I’m a very hands-on person who enjoys taking on challenges, figuring things out and learning along the way,” Heilman said.
As Heilman settles into her new role, she hopes to expand opportunities for students to get involved, explore agricultural careers and apply what they learn in the classroom to real-world situations.
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