Marshall endowment donation allows Macomb Middle School FFA to expand classroom experiences

MACOMB, Ill. — The McDonough County Community Foundation recently announced a donation from Genie Marshall to support the Macomb agriculture program with the “Phil Marshall Agriculture in Classroom Fund” at the Macomb Middle School.

Phil Marshall, who farmed several acres east of Macomb for over 40 years and passed away in 2010, was always supportive of youth education. The endowment will provide yearly proceeds to support the Macomb agriculture and FFA programs.

In a press release, Macomb Middle School advisor Katie Riggins said, “This endowment is great for our programs. This allows us to expand our classroom experiences for our students.”

Foundation chair Scott Coker said, “I knew Phil when I was younger. We are very thankful that Genie decided to preserve his memory and help the Macomb agricultural programs.”

“Phil worked hard when he farmed, and I am glad to be able to help the kids in the FFA program at Macomb schools;” said Genie Marshall, who funded the endowment.

“The National FFA Organization to me means getting to see those who do not have an agriculture
background find joy and passion for the organization. FFA allows those to reach their fullest
potential in various fields or agriculture. To me, it means allowing myself to step outside the
traditional agricultural world and look at the FFA from a different perspective,” said Masyn Riggins,
Macomb FFA chapter president.