The state’s farmers — specifically University of Nebraska–Lincoln alumna Hannah Borg — took center stage in a series of NFL commercials for Ford Motor Company.
The latest commercial, “The Future of Farming: Thanks,” aired during the FOX NFL broadcast of Washington at Dallas on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 26. There are two additional television spots made from the footage, and there may be more.
According to a recent article from National FFA Organization publication, “New Horizons,” the commercials highlight the company’s support of FFA since 1948. Borg also is an alumna of the organization, which opens opportunities for youth to pursue leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.
Borg’s family farm near Allen, Nebraska, in the northeast corner of the state, was the location for the shoot over several days this past summer, and Borg took a starring role in the commercials. The 2019 graduate in agricultural communication has started a chicken operation on the farm as a contractor with Costco.
“(It was) truly a once in a lifetime experience,” Borg told New Horizons. “I have a newfound appreciation for the actors and actresses that usually do this because there’s a lot of energy that goes into getting it just right.
“I’m super proud that Ford took the time to put what we do in Nebraska on the map. What we do isn’t fancy, but it’s important.”
Todd Eckert, Ford Truck Group marketing manager and National FFA Sponsors’ Board member, said Borg and her family were chosen because of her deep farming roots.
“Hannah embodies all that is great about FFA,” he said. “She’s part of a farming family that goes back six generations, and she’s been integral in implementing modern practices on their farm. Beyond her day-to-day duties on the property, she’s also shown a commitment to higher education, graduating from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. She’s an excellent example of what being a farmer today is all about.”
