For nearly two decades, the Power of 7 Seminar stands as one of the FarmHouse Foundation’s most meaningful fundraising and stewardship traditions, bringing alumni donors and undergraduate leaders together for a weekend of mentorship, roundtable discussions and shared learning.

This year’s Seminar, Feb. 20–22, 2026, in Savannah, Georgia, welcomed generous alumni donors, Foundation Trustees, Fraternity board members, staff, spouses and 12 outstanding FH student members. Throughout the weekend, attendees explored issues shaping today’s world, reflected on leadership lessons and built relationships that will last long after the Seminar concluded.

The Thompson Savannah, a modern boutique hotel overlooking the Savannah River, served as the host hotel where the city’s historic district meets the emerging Eastern Wharf development. Just outside the hotel, massive cargo barges move steadily along the busy waterway, a striking reminder of Savannah’s role as a major port city. With sweeping waterfront views from the rooftop restaurant, the setting created a relaxed and memorable backdrop for the weekend.

“The Power of 7 is a uniquely impactful event where ideas and learnings extend across generations,” said Bob Knief (Illinois 89), Seminar sponsor. “The relationships we form and the learning that happens can be life-changing. I really enjoy engaging and sharing ideas with the students. They are very smart and better than we ever were.”

The Seminar began with a networking reception and welcome dinner, followed by the annual “Clayton Yeutter † (Nebraska 49) Lecture: Lessons in Leadership,” in tribute to Yeutter’s illustrious career in public service and agriculture. This year’s lecture featured Lloyd Bettis (Iowa State 67), past Foundation Trustee and the 2026 Robert L. Off Servant Leader Award recipient. Bettis reflected on his lifelong FarmHouse experience, offered leadership advice, shared personal stories about Clayton and Bob and spoke about the meaning of servant leadership in his life.

Saturday’s sessions centered on the global economy, agriculture and the future of food, artificial intelligence, learning from different generations, leading in uncertainty, building financial confidence, and mental health and belonging.

Alumni facilitators guided engaging conversations on national and global issues, exploring how evolving industries and economic forces shape participants’ lives, careers and the future of FarmHouse.

“My Seminar ‘wow’ moment was during the generations in leadership session when one of the donors said, ‘you have to be young and dumb to be old and wise.’ That statement has stuck with me,” said Ross Bodine (Illinois 22). “I looked around the table and saw all of the incredibly wise individuals who were willing to impart their wisdom on the undergraduate attendees. Beyond what I learned from them, that session made me think about my future and inspired me to want to share my own wisdom with young people as I age.”

Saturday afternoon, attendees explored historic Savannah with its unique museums, local shops, historical landmarks and vibrant downtown.

That evening, the group gathered for dinner and fellowship at The Pirate’s House, one of Savannah’s oldest and most storied landmarks. Originally established in 1753 as an inn, the historic building once welcomed sailors, merchants and travelers arriving in the port city. It was also the location of the first public agricultural experiment garden in America. Attendees enjoyed a lively history lesson from a resident artist who shared stories about Savannah’s past, adding a memorable and entertaining touch to the evening. Closing out the evening, Fraternity CEO Dave Hansen (Iowa State 90) shared an update about the Fraternity. 

The Seminar wrapped up Sunday morning with sessions focused on advice and reflections from spouses and alumni for preparing for life after college. The students also shared their impressions of the weekend, lessons learned and how they plan to apply the Seminar experience to their personal development, chapter leadership and future careers.

“The Power of 7 Seminar allowed me to learn more about myself, as well as reflect on alumni experiences in FarmHouse. It gave me connections with alumni, leadership skills and other experiences that will help shape my future in my profession and in my life goals. I am so grateful for this life-changing opportunity,” said Payton Rude (North Dakota State 23).

Now in its 19th year, the Seminar is the Foundation’s most unique annual fundraising tradition. Alumni who make a gift of $10,000 or more to the FH Excellence Fund are invited to attend and mentor one of FarmHouse’s top 12 undergraduate leaders. 

“As a Seminar sponsor and mentor, it is rewarding to witness the interactions my mentee has with other students and alumni, and to try to be a positive influence as they realize that FarmHouse is forever. The opportunity for students to benefit from other alumni’s knowledge and expertise is exceptional,” Gary Hansen (South Dakota State 72) said.

“The Power of 7 included many moments that will stick with me for the rest of my life,” said Ethan Greenwald (South Dakota State 23). “The trip was extremely memorable, and my favorite part was meeting the other undergraduates. Touring Savannah with them helped me make lifelong connections that I otherwise would not have. I look forward to staying in touch and hopefully meeting up with them in the future.”

As the weekend concluded, alumni and students reflected on the value of cross-generational experience, perspective and encouragement. The Power of 7 Seminar continues to demonstrate the lasting influence of FarmHouse alumni who invest their time, wisdom and generosity in the next generation of Builders of Men.