A native of Oklahoma, when he was just 9 years-old Steve Goucher’s family moved to Arizona. They initially resided on the San Carlos Reservation before relocating to Parker, where the Colorado River witnessed Steve’s early years. With his father as the leader, Steve was the founding President of the Parker Best and Better 4-H Club in 1968. He held this position for two years, before starting high school. He continued as a Junior Leader in 4-H teaching leather craft classes.
In 1970 as a Freshman at Parker High School is when Steve’s FFA story begins. Steve’s advisor was Miley Gonzalez “Who helped me grow from a shy kid into the person I am today” he noted. Steve held numerous chapter and district FFA officer positions over the 4 years in high school. Following high school, he attended the University of Arizona graduating in 1978 where he obtained his degree in Agricultural Economics. While at the UA, he became a member of the Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity where once again, his advisor was Miley Gonzalez. Following college, Steve went into banking specializing in Agricultural Lending with Valley National Bank. In 1995 he left banking to become an agent with Farm Bureau Financial Services. He is a 27-year agent and financial advisor with Farm Bureau. Steve tells us “My FFA experience gave me the confidence and skills to ultimately hold leadership positions in virtually every organization I’ve ever been involved throughout the state.” His current community service activities include:
- Member of the Board of Trustees, Executive Committee and Past President of the Arizona Agricultural Education/FFA Foundation
- Treasurer of the Alpha Pi of Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity, Inc. (fraternity alumni corporation)
- President of the Peoria High School Panther Band Boosters Club
- Treasurer of the Arizona Chapter of the Farm Bureau Agents Association
- Member of the Board of Directors of the Maricopa County Fair
- Member of the Board of Directors of the Maricopa County Farm Bureau
When asked why he wanted to serve on the Arizona FFA Foundation Board and why he felt it was important to support FFA, Steve stated “Because of FFA, I’ve always felt it was important to give back to the community. I believe and support FFA because it is the premier leadership organization that helps train high skilled, ethical, and properly educated future leaders for our communities, industry, and country. I know that I would not have achieved what I have done without my Vocational Agricultural education and FFA experience.”
Thank you, Steve, for your continued support and dedication to the Arizona FFA Members and Foundation! We greatly value your leadership, compassion, and generosity.
