FFA Proceedings 2002

Proceedings

FFA members from across the United States, traveled to Louisville, Ky. to celebrate 75 years of premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. Contents 2003-2004 National Officers...... 80 Agri-Entrepreneurship Awards ...... 10 Agriscience Fair ...... 15 Agriscience Student Recognition Program ....14 Agriscience Teacher of the Year...... 15 Alumni Convention ...... 58-59 American FFA Degrees ...... 28-37 Band ...... 21 Career Development Events ...... 18-19 Career Show & Hall of States...... 62 Exhibitors ...... 63 Proceedings Chorus...... 22 Committee Reports ...... 68-74 Program of Activities ...... 77 Convention Overview ...... 1-5 Convention Speakers...... 40-41 Courtesy Corps ...... 64 Creed Speaking CDE...... 12 Distinguished Service Citations ...... 60 Extemporaneous Public Speaking CDE ...... 13 Foundation Sponsors...... 60-61 Honorary American FFA Degrees ...... 56-57 H.O. Sargent Awards ...... 16 Membership Recognition ...... 54 National Chapter Awards ...... 52-53 National Officer Candidates ...... 20

PHOTO BY KELLY ROGERS Official Delegates ...... 65-67 FFA advisors eagerly wait in line to register their members for the convention. Prepared Public Speaking CDE...... 11 Proficiency Awards ...... 24-27 Reliving the FFA Legacy ...... 17 The 2003 National FFA Convention Proceedings is published by the National FFA Organization as a record Retiring Addresses of its annual convention held in Louisville, Ky., October Tim Hammerich ...... 38-39 29-November 1, 2003. Seth Heinert...... 42-43 Editor Photo Processors J.J. Jones...... 44-45 Nicole Bishop, Indiana Emily Rhoades, Florida Kelley Yates, Kentucky Julie Tyson...... 46-47 Associate Editors Marie Franko, Montana Photographers Joel McKie ...... 48-49 Chad McLeod, Florida Sam Harrel, Alaska Dustin A.G. Clark ...... 50-51 Wales Hunter, Kentucky Photo Editor Kelly Rogers, Minnesota Stars Over America ...... 6-9 Nicole Bishop, Indiana Ed Zurga, Kansas Talent ...... 23 Art Director Cover photo by Kelly VIP Citations ...... 55 Cindy Kelley, Indiana Rogers Living the Legacy

An all-time record 51,338 teachers, students and guests poured into Freedom Hall in Louisville, Ky., Oct. 29-Nov. 1, to take part in the 75th anniversary celebration of the nation’s premier youth leadership organization. FFA members from all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands attended the 2003 National FFA Convention to celebrate the FFA legacy of student success. “It’s absolutely awesome to see the tens of thousands of FFA members here,” said Audra Usdowski of the

Lake Hamilton FFA PHOTO BY ED ZURGA Chapter in Arkansas. Patriotism was strong at this year’s convention, as members made new friends from all regions of the country. FFA members attended convention sessions, listened to motivational speakers, participated in career development events (CDEs) and toured the career show. Through different activities and events, members were constantly challenged to draw on past FFA successes while building a legacy of their own. Before the convention began, 37 national officer candidates arrived in Louisville to start the long- awaited screening process that would determine the next six national officers who would lead the FFA. Along with the officer PHOTO BY WALES HUNTER candidates, 475 delegates Members were entertained and inspired at each convention session.

1 Living the Legacy PHOTO BY WALES HUNTER Roller coasters, music, food and fun awaited those who took advantage of the FFA at Six Flags event.

representing all 52 associations were on the scene early to discuss possible changes to the FFA constitution. In celebration of 75 years of success, FFA released a book at convention called Blue Jackets, Gold Standards – 75 years of living the FFA legacy. The book, written by Paul Miner, outlines FFA origins and history and explains the programs that have enabled FFA to build such a strong heritage. National convention officially kicked off Wednesday afternoon with two Reflections sessions, emphasizing the FFA legacies of the past and hopes for the future. National FFA Advisor Larry Case told students that

PHOTO BY WALES HUNTER FFA principles—premier leadership, Hey, batter, batter! Louisville offers many exciting attractions to tour during personal growth and career success—are convention, one of which is the famous Louisville Slugger Museum. timeless and will always be part of the lives of FFA members. “It is time to live the legacy that has been handed down to us,” Case said.

2 Living the Legacy

FFA members embraced that legacy as they competed in a vast field of CDEs. Public speaking, parliamentary procedure, judging competitions and many other events gave students the opportunity to display skills and knowledge gained from the agriculture classroom. Convention sessions were full of action and excitement as FFA members packed the seats of Freedom Hall. Session themes revolved around specific legacies that are PHOTO BY WALES HUNTER A year of preparation and hard work came to fruition for members participating integral to the past and future in career development events. of FFA, including progress, innovation, partnership, service, leadership and career success. The opening laser show, accompanied by a video highlighting FFA legacies, was a hit with members and pumped them up for each session. Top FFA members were recognized onstage for their achievements, honoring the rich tradition of FFA leadership and accomplishments. The Stars Over America Pageant featured this year’s American Star Farmer, American Star in Agribusiness, American Star in Agricultural Placement and American Star in Agriscience. National award winners for each of the 48 proficiency areas were presented with plaques and scholarships, and winners of the 23 individual and team CDEs were recognized. PHOTO BY KELLY ROGERS FFA members also took part One of the best things about convention, are the shared memories. in a variety of leadership and

3 Living the Legacy PHOTO BY KELLY ROGERS PHOTO BY WALES HUNTER Convention-goers found some great gifts and souvenirs at the These FFA members are aiming to become great leaders at an Shopping Mall. experiential training session sponsored by Cargill as a special project of the National FFA Foundation.

personal development workshops. Hosted technology is changing the way society by former national officers, FFA members lives and works. Former basketball player and other presenters, the workshops gave Chad Varga shared details of his troubled attendees the chance to build leadership past and encouraged FFA members to skills and take new ideas back to their overcome obstacles. Robin Roberts, an chapters. anchor for ABC’s “Good Morning During the week, guest speakers America,” reflected on her experiences as provided students with thought-provoking an athlete and reporter and how she was words of encouragement and motivation. able to rise to success. National Guard “Listening to the motivational speakers Staff Sergeant Christopher Stone inspired is what I look forward to the most at students with a story of survival and national convention,” said Jed Michal of patriotism as he recounted the days he the Flagler FFA Chapter in Colorado. spent as a prisoner of war in the Former “The speakers offer great advice, tell Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. funny stories and relate their experience Outside the sessions, one of the most to FFA.” popular convention spots was the career Lowell Catlett, a professor at New show. With more than 340 organizations Mexico State University, entertained represented, the South Wing of Freedom students with a message on how Hall was packed with displays from

4 Living the Legacy businesses, universities and other organizations. FFA members filled the building as they mingled in the aisles, talking to representatives and participating in different games and activities. Students once again proved that talent runs deep in the FFA. The National FFA Band and Chorus entertained members during sessions and presented a special concert Friday night. The band opened several sessions with a powerful rendition of the national anthem, and the chorus enthusiastically sang new songs and old favorites such as “Bridge Over Troubled Water.” At the talent show, members showcased individual talents with acts that included piano tunes, country music songs and dances. After 75 years of establishing PHOTO BY WALES HUNTER legacies, FFA members showed Jimmie Lea Black accompanied the National FFA Band with a beautiful they still know how to have fun. sign language interpretation of the “Star Spangled Banner.” Looking to add adventure to the national convention experience, some students headed over to Six Flags Kentucky Kingdom to enjoy roller coasters and other thrill rides, while others had a ball at dances on Thursday and Friday nights. To conclude convention, FFA repeated a time-honored tradition by selecting a new national officer team to lead the organization in the coming year. From start to finish, the 2003 National FFA Convention reminded members of past FFA achievements and challenged them to embrace opportunities of PHOTO BY KELLY ROGERS the future—truly living the Members cheered the daring feats of the bull riders at the Bull Bash, one legacy. of convention’s most popular attractions.

5 Stars Over America

They are considered the best of the best. On Friday evening, 16 members were recognized as finalists for the Stars Over America awards for outstanding achievements in their respective supervised agricultural experience programs (SAEs). The Star awards recognize students who have developed outstanding agricultural skills and competencies through their career development programs, demon- strated outstanding management skills, earned the American FFA Degree and met other agricultural education, scholarship and leader- ship requirements. Each finalist receives $1,000 from the National FFA Foundation and has the opportunity to travel to Costa Rica as part of an inter- national experience tour. While all of the finalists excel in their area

Orrin Holle Atwood FFA Oberlin, Kansas It may sound strange, but the winner of the 2003 American Star Farmer award has never purchased a cow. Rather, Holle has found it cheaper to pur- chase and breed yearling heifers, watching a cow’s value increase to $1,100, with the cost of raising the cow totaling only $650. Holle’s operation now con- sists of more than 100 feeder calves and 900 acres of farm ground, an outstand- ing growth from only two calves he purchased when he was 12. of expertise, only one in each of four areas

emerges from the PHOTO BY ED ZURGA interviews as a Star: Star Farmer, Star in Agribusiness, Star in Agricultural Placement and Star in Agriscience. Star Farmer

Chad V. Ledbetter Michael N. Brooks Michael Wellens Morris FFA Woodstown FFA Chaska FFA Okmulgee, Oklahoma Elmer, New Jersey Carver, Minnesota

Instead of the traditional birthday As an eighth-generation farmer, Wellens quickly learned that presents, Ledbetter’s grandfather Brooks is able to draw experience education plays a large role in the gave him cows and cow-calf pairs. By from his family farming operation success of a farming operation after the time Ledbetter entered high and membership in FFA to turn an he watched his own enterprise grow school, his herd numbered more ordinary job into an entrepreneurial from seven soybean acres at the time than 60 head. Today, he operates a project. he entered high school to more than diversified farm with more than Brooks’ skills and knowledge have 600 acres last year. Not only did his 1,000 cattle and thousands of acres given him the ability to raise veg- acreage increase, but Wellens’ of cropland. etable crops for a profit while agricultural efficiencies grew as well. In a farming partnership with his expanding his acreage in an area of He has learned to market father, he retains his own trucks, the country known for urban commodities and recognize the trailers, combine, tractor and grain encroachment and high land values. importance of analyzing records to equipment. The farm yields 105,000 He used the proceeds from his veg- make future decisions. bushels of corn, 35,000 bushels of etable operation to establish an agri- soybeans and 42,000 bushels of cultural trucking company to trans- wheat yearly. port farm products.

PHOTOS BY ED ZURGA 6 Stars Over America Star in Agribusiness Members receiving their American FFA Degree may be eligible to compete for the American Star in Agribusiness award. The award winner should posess a successful agribusiness career and outstanding leadership skills. Joshua Alan Zeithamer of Alexandria, Minn. was recognized as this year's American Star in Agribusiness.

Joshua Alan Zeithamer Alexandria FFA Alexandria, Minnesota

Because a large number of communities have banned fertilizers containing phosphorus, Zeithamer found a niche market in Minnesota. Today, Bio Builder Inc. manufactures and distributes specialty phosphorus-free fertilizers and performs other agronomic services. In 2001, he used his fertilizer concept to begin creating mixtures that pro- vide outstanding growing results for his professional customers. Zeithamer took the fertilizer concept one step further by formulating the mixture completely out of renewable resources from Minnesota. His company also offers wholesale PHOTO BY KELLY ROGERS grass seed and erosion control products to complement its fertilizer sales.

Jay Henricks Travis E. Wolf Mark Haseley Laverne FFA Spencer FFA Bremen FFA Laverne, Oklahoma Marshfield, Wisconsin Bremen, Indiana

Henricks has made great achieve- As the co-owner of T&T Quality When Haseley began researching ments as a custom cattle buyer and Cutting, a sawmill partnership with sales and service opportunities in his the operator of a fence building and his brother, Wolf is living his dream community, he had to look no fur- farm services business. As a cattle of running a business taught to him ther than skills he learned on his buyer for numerous clients, Henricks by his father. own farm. After recognizing a need, has watched his volume grow from He has seen his clientele grow he formed a partnership to provide $100,000 to nearly $2 million. His from just 10 in the first year to more ditching and drainage services. 2002 volume reached almost 14,000 than 35 today. In addition, his pro- The business has steadily grown head of cattle purchased for his ductivity has increased from 4,000 with 60 jobs completed last year, and clients and 2,800 hours processing cut board feet the first year to more the success of the partnership has led the animals. Henricks has learned than 20,000 board feet annually. him to make plans to buy out his that reputation is the best advertise- “I know that in the future, all my partners’ shares so he can operate ment, and he believes that his foun- hard work and dedication will pay off the business full-time. dation of reputation and trust stems and help me in life,” Wolf said. from his involvement in FFA.

7 Stars Over America Star in Agricultural Placement The Star in Agricultural Placement award recognizes a student who has an outstanding SAE in placement in the agricultural industry and is active in FFA. This year's Star in Agricultural Placement winner is Erik Blaser of Gillett, Wis.

Erik Blaser Oconto Falls FFA Gillett, Wisconsin Blaser knows that life as a dairy farmer is hard work—he’s been performing those responsibilities since he was a young boy. Today, the 22-year- old has logged more than 10,000 hours of career placement work since he began keeping FFA records four years ago. Blaser works side by side with dairy industry professionals such as the farm’s veterinarian to increase productivity on the family farm. “Having the opportunity to work with them to help our farm succeed allowed me to question them on what dairy farming and agriculture PHOTO BY KELLY ROGERS were beyond the boundaries of our farm,” Blaser commented.

Chelsea Daniel Jordan Parsons Josh St. Peters Tolles Technical Center FFA Porterville FFA Greenville FFA Hillard, Ohio Ducor, California Greenville, Illinois

A passing interest in pet care soon Upon entering high school, A college junior, St. Peters has turned into a career track for Daniel, Parsons met with his father and agri- already begun to make a name for who has logged thousands of hours science instructor to draw up formal himself by logging hundreds of hours in her experience program since plans that laid the groundwork for his as a communications professional for beginning her work in pet styling. project of managing the harvesting prestigious outlets such as WGN of Her skills and knowledge have given operations and client interaction for Chicago, through which his voice has her the ability to build a base of Parsons Farm Service, which harvests been broadcast to thousands of lis- clients and manage their expecta- nearly 15,000 acres of grain and seed teners across the United States. tions. With 90 percent of Daniels’ crops each year, and Knuckles Ranch. St. Peters used his work experience to clients being repeat business, she has During peak harvesting season, build media contacts in the industry. surpassed her growth goal of 50 regu- Parsons works up to 100 hours per “These people aided me in pursuing lar clients with more than 130 week and can be found on harvesting bigger opportunities that led to my clients, a 260 percent growth. equipment or routinely performing college education in agricultural maintenance in the field. He is also communications and my decision to sprayer certified after completing make this agricultural experience required pesticide applicator courses. into a professional career,” he said.

8 Stars Over America Star in Agriscience An outstanding agriscience-based SAE, relating to natural resources, research/experimentation or science-based directed labs, is essential for the Star in Agriscience award winner. The recipient should also have an active FFA career. This year's Star in Agriscience award went to Amanda Beyer of Waupaca, Wis.

Amanda Beyer Waupaca FFA Waupaca, Wisconsin

Alarmed by the decline of many animal species, Beyer was motivated to research and educate others about animal conservation. Her desire to protect native habitats has taken her across the globe, with trips to Central America and New Zealand. The University of Wisconsin student currently serves as county coordinator for the Waupaca County Bluebird Restoration Association. Beyer’s skills and knowledge have given her the ability to read the signs that aid in scientific research as she observes animals in their natural environment. PHOTO BY ED ZURGA

Alison Wohlgemuth Melinda K. Swanson Ryan Brunner Kingsburg FFA Stillwater FFA Newell FFA Kingsburg, California Stillwater, Minnesota Nisland, North Dakota

While most undergraduate A high school agriscience project During four years of high school, research positions are reserved for and a volunteer study program were Brunner logged nearly 600 hours of students in their junior and senior all that Swanson needed to prompt directed laboratory experiments on years, that didn’t deter underclass- her to enter natural resources as a plant growth and health projects on man Wohlgemuth from applying and career path. global positioning system (GPS) being accepted for a job at the Although many students at her operations. University of California, where she is high school had tried to repair a dys- Growing up on his family farm majoring in agricultural education. functional 500-gallon aquatic tank also gave him the background to Her skills and knowledge have system, only Swanson overcame the determine the effects of fertilizer given her the ability to perform challenge. The endeavor lit a fire leaching on soil, and he has incorpo- genetic transfers with a variety of cit- that led her to major in biology and rated correct handling of agricultural rus fruits. She is responsible for chemistry in college. chemicals, which aids in accurate entire experiment sections at the Swanson now performs university experimental measurements. UC- Davis Pomology Lab and has research at the Lake Superior Brunner also mastered operation of seen accountability grow in her job. Research Institute and the Caribbean GPS equipment and created a class- Coral Reef Studies program spon- room curriculum for his agriscience sored by the government of Belize. instructor. 9 Agri-Entrepreneurship Awards

Sponsored by and in partnership Kelsey Deaton of Troy, Ohio, owns and Cole Reeves of Salado, Texas, owns and with the Kauffman Center for operates Deaton’s Corn Maze. Deaton manages Noah’s Way Exotic Petting Zoo. launched the business after visiting a When Reeves entered the agriculture Entrepreneurial Leadership at maze in the fall of 2001. She researched program, he had a few exotic animals the Ewing Marion Kauffman the possibilities and rented land from her along with some goats and sheep. Reeves’ parents to start her project. In addition to operation began when his father was Foundation as a special project the eight-acre maze, Deaton’s customers asked to provide some animals for a Texas of the National FFA Foundation. are also offered tractor-pulled hayrides theme day at a local school. Within a and a visit to a farmer’s market, which week, Reeves had received numerous offers pumpkins, gourds, Indian corn and requests and decided to develop a mobile fall flowers. Deaton also provides a camp- petting zoo. Over time, Reeves has grown fire for guests to relax around, adding fur- his business by marketing the services he ther enjoyment to their evenings. In her provides to fairs and shows as well as first season, Deaton hosted approximately other event organizers. He is a member of 1,200 guests. the Louisiana and Texas Fairs and Festivals Association and attends their Travis Gottschalk of Kimball, Minn., annual trade shows. In addition, he sends owns and operates T ‘N T Restoration in information to area chambers of com- partnership with his brother, Trevor. merce, schools and churches offering his Together, the brothers restore antique mobile petting zoo service. tractors. Both have exceptional mechanical and restoration skills that Eric Schroeder of Cambridge, Wis., owns have allowed them to be successful in and operates Schroeder Fur Processing. their partnership. Gottschalk completed Prior to starting this business, Schroeder his first tractor restoration at the tender worked for North American Fur Auctions age of 11. By the time he was 14, he and (NAFA), one of the largest fur auction his brother were in business. Because of houses in the world. Schroeder recognized his skills and knowledge base, Travis has an opportunity when he became aware of been invited to speak at tractor restora- individuals who had pelts in need of pro- tion seminars throughout the country. cessing. Since NAFA only accepted

PHOTO BY KELLY ROGERS processed furs, Schroeder took on the National Agri-Entrepreneurship finalist Lindsey Tyler Holder of Childress, Texas, owns challenge of providing fur-processing Towson was honored with a $1000 scholarship. and operates Holder Wildlife services. Schroeder removes the hides Management Services, a business that from the carcasses, and then combs them The Agri-Entrepreneurship Award Program removes wild hogs and other pests from out to remove any foreign material that farmers’ and ranchers’ fields. The idea for might be present in the fur. Once this is gives FFA members a head start in developing developing this business came when wild accomplished, each pelt is stretched and business skills as they create their own agricultural hogs rooting around in the soil and dried. Schroeder prices his services by enterprises involving production agriculture, food, uprooting the plants damaged a neigh- species and whether or not the hide has bor’s crop. Holder devised a live trap and been removed from the animal prior to fiber, the environment and natural resources. The launched the business. He charges prop- delivery. program emphasizes innovation and encourages erty owners for wildlife removal, and then markets the animals through a local Matthew Sloan of Mabel, Minn., owns members to be creative in their business endeav- buyer. and manages Carpo Diem Fitting, a busi- ors. From the state finalists, 10 national finalists ness that provides fitting and grooming are selected, and each receives a $1,000 scholar- Megan McElfresh of Sutton, Neb., owns services for the dairy cattle industry. and manages McElfresh Weimaraners. Sloan works with cattle at a variety of ship. Recipients of the award either have started After brainstorming ways to pay for col- different levels, varying from county fairs their own business or have plans to start one soon. lege, McElfresh settled on producing and to national and world shows. His primary The enterprises of this year’s award recipients, marketing purebred puppies. She pur- task is clipping the animals to camou- chased two females and began a breeding flage any flaws and present the animal in ranging from a corn maze to an exotic petting zoo, program. Initially, she advertised her its most ideal state. Sloan also serves as a are excellent examples of diversity and creativity puppies locally and by taking them to herdsman while traveling with the cattle in the agricultural industry. The program is a joint area ball games. With the help of the and is responsible for their nutritional Internet and regional newspaper adver- needs, comfort, handling, milking, med- project between the National FFA Organization tising, McElfresh has expanded her busi- ical concerns, hygiene and exercise. and the U.S Department of Education. ness and now sells to customers through- out the United States. Lindsey Towson of Tifton, Ga., owns and operates Musings and Things, a business Michael Biel of Randolph, Wis., owns Wravenna Phipps of Kearney, Neb., focused on providing educational games and operates Biel’s Trapping and Wildlife owns and operates Shear Madness, a to teachers. Her first product is an agricul- Service. Biel decided to build a business business that specializes in grooming tural education game called Wordbinder. on activities that he had always enjoyed exotic animals such as llamas and Based on the game Taboo, Wordbinder is – hunting and trapping. Biel offers his alpacas. Prior to launching this business, designed for use in conjunction with the services to local landowners. These serv- Phipps worked for a similar business to Georgia Agricultural Education ices include removing muskrats, rac- develop her skills and understanding of Curriculum. The words used in the game coons, squirrels and other wildlife from the industry. Phipps concentrates her have been taken from the curriculum as private property. In addition to the marketing efforts at exotic animal sales, well as textbooks used to support the cur- income generated from the landowners, shows and fairs. She takes great pride in riculum. Teachers can use the game as a Biel has developed a second income grooming an animal before a show or sale whole-class activity to reinforce a lesson, stream by processing and selling the pelts and helping its owners show each animal unit or a series of units. Towson markets of the animals he traps. to its greatest advantage. her games by attending and exhibiting at teacher conferences.

10 Prepared Public Speaking CDE

Sponsored by Rosen’s Diversified Inc. and the National FFA Foundation.

The poised and polished group of speakers who compete in the National FFA Prepared Public Speaking CDE spend countless hours researching, writing and memorizing. To these FFA members, such efforts are an opportunity to develop strong written and oral communication skills that will be used through- out the rest of their lives. Contestants begin honing their abilities almost a year before national convention, as they PHOTO BY ED ZURGA advance through local, regional Abby Kirkbride was named the national prepared public and state competitions. speaking winner on stage during the seventh general session. After much preparation and rehearsal, finalists arrive ready x to present their speeches, struc- tured according to guidelines set x by the National FFA Organization. All contestants are required to speak on agricul- x ture-related topics and present a six- to eight-minute speech before a panel of judges. Along Abby Kirkbride won the 2003 course uninhabitable by a people with scoring the actual manu- National FFA Prepared Public depending on agriculture for sub- scripts, judges grade the speakers Speaking CDE. Kirkbride com- sistence.” So, whose perception on factors such as voice quality, peted against four finalists for is correct? Are we living in a articulation and confidence. At the title. Her speech, “A paradise or a desert? The answer the end, each speaker has five Paradise Desert—The Challenge is both. Although the West is an minutes to respond to questions of Water in the West” describes area of unsurpassed uniqueness, from the judges. the role agriculture plays in con- we are beginning to realize that serving water and the environ- we are at the mercy of the one ment. Below is an excerpt of her substance that allows us to speech. thrive in this part of the coun- “Pristine, Untouched, life giv- try: water. In a changing world ing and stunning are all words we are faced with some serious that come to my mind when I questions about the future of think of our family hike to the water in the west, and how agri- headwaters of the Green River culture fits into this altering pic- several years ago on vacation in ture….” Wyoming’s Wind River moun- “With such adverse conditions tain range. Never in my life facing water in the west, what have I seen an area of such natu- can be done to achieve stability? ral beauty and riches. Yet almost I see there being three steps to 200 years ago, Major Stephen H. begin correcting our situa- Long described the same area of tion….” “ None of these steps, the country as, “almost wholly however, need to be taken at the unfit for cultivation, and of expense of agriculture. The gen-

11 eral public often forgets the genuine claim agriculture has on water, and instead see the industry as water-greedy and conservation-shy. As agricultur- alists, it is up to us to change this perception, and ensure we have water in the years to come….” A full copy of Kirkbride’s speech will be available through the Agricultural Education Resources Catalog after February 1, 2004.

Creed Speaking CDE

Sponsored by CHS and Papa John’s International Inc. as a special project of the National FFA Foundation.

“I believe in the future of agriculture, with a faith born not of words but of deeds…” This powerful phrase begins the FFA Creed, which has been read and recited by countless FFA members spanning generations since its adoption 73 years ago. The creed speaking CDE provides new members in grades seven through nine with the opportunity to gain experience in public speaking, as well as develop a richer understanding of the creed itself and its importance to the organization. This year’s winner was Emily Eddy of Tulare, Calif. She was one of 46 members who competed in the event. PHOTO BY ED ZURGA Emily Eddy won the National FFA Creed Speaking CDE for her presentation and knowledge of the FFA Creed.

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12 Extemporaneous Public Speaking CDE Sponsored by American Farm In the extemporaneous public speaking competition, students are Bureau Federation as a special given 30 minutes to prepare a four- to six-minute speech on an agricul- project of the National FFA tural topic and then are asked to answer a series of questions from Foundation. judges. The 2003 National FFA Extemporaneous Public Speaking CDE winner was Hailey Wilmer, of the Park FFA Chapter in Livingston, Mont., whose topic was, “Designer Crops: Sowing Seeds for Specific End Uses.” In her speech, Wilmer stated, “As we plant the seeds of the future— these soybeans, which have been modified, and other crops, such as golden rice—we are planting the seeds of change. We are changing our minds. We are using our imagination to improve our existence. We are stepping into the future with optimism.”

Hailey Wilmer Park FFA Chapter Montana

Through FFA, students have the opportunity to strengthen their communication skills and present themselves in a professional manner. FFA provides a variety of career development events (CDEs) that offer members this experience. In the extemporaneous public speaking CDE, members select a speech topic from three randomly picked topics. These topics are selected from 12 possi- ble issues in the areas of agriscience and technology; agrimarketing and international agricultural rela- tions; food and fiber systems; and urban agriculture.

PHOTO BY ED ZURGA Members are then given 30 minutes to prepare a Hailey Wilmer’s knowledge of the agricultural four- to six-minute speech. A panel of judges asks industry and her presentation skills earned her the them a series of questions related to the topic as well. title of national extemporaneous public speaking Through this speaking event, students are chal- winner. lenged to demonstrate their knowledge on a given topic with little preparation or practice. Members show their ability to persuasively, efficiently and effectively present their message. The 2003 National FFA Extemporaneous Public Speaking CDE winner was Hailey Wilmer, of the Park FFA Chapter in Livingston, Mont., whose topic was, “Designer Crops: Sowing Seeds for Specific End Uses.” In her speech, Wilmer stated, “As we plant the seeds of the future—these soybeans, which have been modified, and other crops, such as golden rice—we are planting the seeds of change. We are changing our minds. We are using our imagination to improve our existence. We are stepping into the future with optimism.”

13 Agriscience Student Recognition Program National Winner Grant Lewis Delavan FFA Chapter Illinois Advisor: Richard Lessen Runner-up Megan Robblee Mt. Vernon FFA Chapter Washington Advisors: Tim Knue, Randy Brown, Rick Kannely & Ricky Knue National Finalists Laura Ayala Galt FFA Chapter PHOTO BY ED ZURGA California Grant Lewis was thrilled when he was named the 2003 Advisors: Hugh Mooney, Cheryl Agriscience Student of the Year. Reese, Chantell Albiani, Carl Wright & Mark Feurbach

Whitney Beck Sponsored by Monsanto as a special project of the National FFA Pettisville FFA Chapter Foundation. Ohio Grant A. Lewis’ interest in alternative fossil fuels paid off at Advisor: John Poulson national convention. Lewis, from the Delavan FFA Chapter in Julie Chelewski Illinois, was named the 2003 Agriscience Student of the Year. This Rifle FFA Chapter award goes to students who demonstrate exceptional research skills Colorado through projects involving agriscience and the application of Advisor: Leon Hanhardt knowledge gained from agriculture classes. Lewis focused his project on the effect of ethanol in small engines Amy Garrison and the most efficient way to use the substance. He found that using Lenawee Vo-Tech FFA Chapter ethanol in small engines improves their efficiency. Lewis has Michigan presented his findings to many organizations. Advisor: Ken Bollinger This research is just one example of how FFA members practice real-world career skills through integrated agricultural education. Mateusz Tomkowiak Students are also evaluated on academic achievement and Chicago High School for involvement in school and community activities. Agricultural Sciences FFA Chapter Illinois Advisors: Lucille Shaw, Cynthia Sajid & Julie Reynolds

Shalyne Van Worth North High Bakersfield FFA Chapter California Advisor: Chris Dickson

14 Agriscience Teacher of the Year Sponsored by Potash National Winner Corporation of Saskatchewan Inc. as a special project of the Owen Thomason Franklin County High School National FFA Foundation. Carnesville, Georgia Administrator: William Howe Owen Mark Thomason, advi- sor of the Franklin County FFA Chapter in Carnesville, Ga., was National Finalists named the 2003 Agriscience Carl Aakre Teacher of the Year. This award Agricultural and Food Sciences Academy was designed to recognize teach- Little Canada, Minnesota ers who integrate applied science Administrator: Becky Meyer into their curriculum with excit- Russell Graves ing approaches. Finalists have Childress High School Childress, Texas developed innovative programs Administrator: John Wilson PHOTO BY ED ZURGA in food, environmental, animal, Alan Taylor The commitment, dedication and plant, soil and mechanical and Owsley County High School ingenuity Owen Thomason engineering sciences. displayed while teaching in an Booneville, Kentucky agriscience classroom earned him When Thomason noticed that Administrator: Earl Shuler recognition as the 2003 the local community was chang- Agriscience Teacher of the Year. ing from traditional production agriculture to hobby farms, he looked for a new way to attract students to agricultural educa- Agriscience Fair tion. As part of his aquaculture Sponsored by Ford Motor Company Fund. program and with funding from a Scholarships sponsored by Ford Motor Company Fund as a special project of the school-to-work grant, he now National FFA Foundation. maintains a 30x60-foot green- house that can handle 12,000 New ideas, modern technology and agriculture abounded at the agriscience fair. FFA fish. This opportunity attracts members put their minds in gear to develop agriscience projects and experiments in nontraditional students with one of five categories: botany, engineering, environmental sciences, zoology or bio- diverse perspectives to his class- chemistry/microbiology/food science. Projects focused on scientific principles and room. emerging technologies in agricultural enterprises. “Students enter my class Members began working on their projects many months before convention and won expecting the traditional cow, their respective state competitions. Through the fair, students often take their under- pig and crops curriculum,” standing and experience of agriscience to a higher level. With a mix of excitement and Thomason stated. “They leave nerves, contestants responded to questions from judges who circled the room. knowing that experimentation, “The agriscience fair gives you more opportunities to expand your knowledge,” said current events and analytical Laura Hulman of the Navasota FFA Chapter in Texas. “It gives you problem-solving thinking are part of our progres- skills, too.” sive agricultural department.” Winners in each division received plaques and are eligible for scholarships. Thomason’s dedication and Category: Biochemistry/Microbiology/Food Science Category: Engineering teaching initiative earned him Division 1: Adam Judy - Moorfield Middle, WV Division 1: Tyler Treptow - Weimar, TX this honor, which was announced Division 2: Nikki Schneider - West Central, IA Division 2: Grant Lewis - Delavan, IL Division 3: Weston Meeter and Tyler Babbs - Taylorville, IL Division 3: Jenna Davis and Samantha Greathouse - Judson, TX during an onstage presentation at Division 4: Lindsey Doyle and Tiffany Herrera - Samuel Division 4: Dustin Crittenden and Kyle Baker - Winfield, KS convention. Clemens, TX Category: Environmental Sciences Category: Botany Division 1: Erin McFarland - Sumner, WA Division 1: Rachel Sutter - Plymouth, OH Division 2: Cortney Timmons - Byng, OK Division 2: Janelle Williams - Bakersfield, CA Division 3: Andrew McNair and Marisa Zozaya - Judson, TX Division 3: Amanda Browning and Alayna Siebman - Division 4: Rocky Latham and Heather Gardner - Gilmer, TX Childress, TX Division 4: Krista Brown and Bridget Sloan - Delavan, IL Category: Zoology Division 1: Catherine Kuber - Clovis East, CA Division 2: Drew Sanning - Eldon, MO Division 3: Bethany Baird and Branen Weade - Miami Trace, OH Division 4: Christina Bernal-Rigoli and Ed Carr - Amphitheater, AZ

15 H.O. Sargent Awards

Sponsored by Monsanto as a out. Adjacent to an agriculture special project of the National classroom was a room for FFA Foundation. mentally and physically disabled students. Wanting to get these As the National FFA students more involved, Organization continues into the Woodward recruited fellow FFA next 75 years, the H.O. Sargent members to serve as tutors and Award is given to individuals shared weekly agriculture lessons who are “living the legacy” by with them. Her commitment to developing ways to reach include other FFA members in underrepresented groups who these efforts is breaking down have not yet been able to barriers and misconceptions experience agricultural education among her peers. or the FFA. Nonmembers who work to promote the ideals Sargent The award was reestablished in PHOTO BY WALES HUNTER 1995 to recognize the New believed in are also eligible for Jenifer Ann Woodward’s service to recognition. Nonmember awards others and commitment to diversity this year went to Jamie Cano, were recognized when she was named Russell Graves and Donald Lewis 2003 H.O. Sargent Award winner. Reid. Cano, of Hillard, Ohio, was denied the opportunity to enroll in agricultural education in high H.O. Sargent school due to his ethnic Member Winner background, but that didn’t Jennifer Ann Woodward diminish his love for the subject South Rowan FFA Chapter or his belief in the importance of North Carolina inclusion. Through his dedication, the associate professor at The Ohio State University National Finalists began the Hispanic Action Plan. Amber Adams While teaching agricultural Tri-County FFA Chapter education at Childress High Wisconsin School in Texas, Graves revised the curriculum to center around Cierra C. Alexander communication and leadership Coral Reef Senior FFA Chapter PHOTO BY WALES HUNTER skills. As a result, the program has Florida Jamie Cano was one of two adults recognized with the H.O. grown from having only one Sargent award for their active support and recognition of Brantrell Pastor cultural diversity within their communities and agricultural female enrolled in 1993 to having Lincoln Secondary Alternative education. full gender equity in the program FFA Chapter today. The ethnic composition of Louisiana Farmers of America (NFA) and the program has also grown, and their place in FFA history. The now the diversity of the NFA was founded in 1928 by Dr. agriscience program mirrors that Non-Member H.O. Sargent, who believed the of the general school population. time was right for an organization Reid, of Louisville, Ky., wanted National Recipients for African-American agriculture to develop strategies to improve Jamie Cano students. academic achievement of Ohio Jennifer Ann Woodward, of minorities. Agricultural Russell Graves the South Rowan FFA Chapter education gave him the tools he Texas in China Grove, N.C., was this needed to make this goal a reality. He designed a hands-on year’s member award winner. Donald L. Reid learning program to introduce Woodward took action after Kentucky discovering a group of students in students to agricultural education her high school was being left and agricultural careers.

16 Reliving the FFA Legacy

Upon hearing the theme of anniversary, the organization Indiana State Fair. Later, when the 2003 National FFA has released the book Blue covering agricultural events for a Convention, “Living the Jackets, Gold Standards, a chroni- farm paper, Miner and the FFA Legacy,” many students may cle of the FFA legacy. Author again crossed paths. On each think of their parents or some Paul Miner writes, “Blue Jackets, occasion, he was impressed by the other former member who has a Gold Standards is not a history of poise and confidence of the faded blue corduroy jacket the FFA; rather, it attempts to young leaders he met. adorned with an emblem bearing capture the organization’s spirit The book was available for the words “Vocational through remarks from the past, sale during convention in the Agriculture” gently curving and through photos.” shopping mall. Download an around its perimeter, rather than Miner was never an FFA mem- order form at www.mtpublish- “Agricultural Education” as they ber; his first experience with FFA ing.com or call 1-888-263-4702 read today. In fact, the FFA came while publicizing the to purchase copies.

FFA introduced a new commemorative book at this year’s convention, Blue Jackets Gold Standards PHOTO BY ED ZURGA

Members explore the organization’s history at the FFA museum, located in the Agricultural Career Show. legacy incorporates both phrases, the old and the new. The National FFA Organization is constantly changing to reflect develop- ments in the agricultural indus- try, which has grown to encom- pass all aspects of agriculture, from production farming, agribusiness and forestry to biotechnology, marketing and food processing. As the field of agriculture continues to thrive, those who wear the blue jacket have a strong sense of what FFA is and where it is going, but many others have not been exposed to the organization’s rich history. A new book will help tell the FFA story.

As FFA celebrates its 75th PHOTO BY ED ZURGA

17 Career Development Events

Career development events (CDEs) provide FFA Agricultural Sales members with an opportunity to apply knowledge Sponsored by Monsanto Company acquired in the classroom to real-life scenarios. Winning Team: Troy HS FFA, Missouri—Doyle CDEs help members Justus (advisor), Megan Fox, Jenna Van Beek, develop critical think- Michelle Schisler and Jamie Nichols ing, clear communica- High Individual: Branch Area Career Ctr FFA, tion and effective per- Michigan—Doug Albright formance, and are one of the best ways for stu- Agronomy dents to build leader- Sponsored by Bayer CropScience ship skills while learn- Winning Team: Pleasant Hope HS FFA, ing about the agricul- Missouri—Jeff Voris (advisor), Joey Stokes, tural industry. Jordan Richner, Brad Young and Dustin Cox Throughout the week, High Individual: Pleasant Hope HS FFA, FFA members partici- Missouri—Joey Stokes pated in a wide variety of events, ranging from Creed Speaking public speaking to poul- Sponsored by CHS and Papa John’s International Inc. try evaluation. Results High Individual:Western HS FFA, California— were announced at the Emily Eddy end of the week and members were honored Dairy Cattle Evaluation at award banquets. Sponsored by Associated Milk Producers During the Saturday Inc.,Westfalia*Surge Winning Team: Owatonna HS FFA, Minnesota—

PHOTO BY KELLY ROGERS session, winning teams The environmental and natural resources CDE and individuals were rec- Liz Tinaglia (advisor), Bridgette Hemmesch, Liz asks members to tackle national and international ognized on stage for Kern, Brian Paulson and Melissa Mussman environmental issues. their efforts and accom- High Individual: Southern Door HS FFA, plishments. Wisconsin—Tony Brey Dairy Foods Agricultural Communications Sponsored by National FFA Foundation Sponsored by Successful Farming Winning Team: Milbank Sr. HS FFA, South Winning Team: James Madison HS FFA, Texas— Dakota—Jerry Janisch (advisor), Tana Bonnet, Joshua Anderson (advisor), Lauren Brown, Adam Kyra Tietjen, Amber VanHout and Andrea Wetz, Noelle Parris and Gina Munch Gorden High Individual: Fairbury Jr/Sr. HS FFA, High Individual: Milbank Sr. HS FFA, South Nebraska—Jennafer Glaesemann Dakota—Amber VanHout Agricultural Issues Forum Environmental/Natural Resources Sponsored by Elanco Animal Health, A Division of Eli Sponsored by Ford Division, Michelin Ag Tires, Lilly & Co. National FFA Foundation Winning Team: James Madison HS FFA, Texas— Winning Team: Junction City HS FFA, Oregon— Doak Stewart (advisor), Keri Bagley, Megan Reynold Gardner (advisor), Chauncey Freeman, Walsh, Ashley Green, Erica Hawks, Joy Holland Emily Wintch, Collin Kayser and Ryan Burks and Deanne Weinheimer High Individual: Junction City HS FFA, Oregon— Chauncey Freeman Agricultural Mechanics Sponsored by Firestone Agricultural Tire Extemporaneous Public Speaking Company/Bridgestone Firestone Trust Fund Sponsored by American Farm Bureau Federation Winning Team: North Shelby HS FFA, Missouri— High Individual: Park HS-Park FFA, Montana— Harold Eckler (advisor), Gina Eckler, Andrew Hailey Wilmer Mann and Jordan Yoder High Individual: Russell-Tyler-Ruthton HS FFA, Farm Business Management Minnesota—Cody Nelson Sponsored by John Deere

18 Winning Team: North Callaway R-I HS FFA, Missouri— Meats Evaluation And Technology Jim Graham (advisor), Rebecca Railton, Brian Wenzel, Sponsored by Excel Corporation, Hormel Foods Corporation, Abby Ladlie and Sally Casteel Oscar Mayer Foods Corporation, Premium Standard Farms, High Individual: North Callaway R-I HS FFA, Missouri— Tyson Foods Inc. Rebecca Railton Winning Team: East Central HS FFA, Texas—Ray Floriculture Pieniazek (advisor), Jessica Doege, Brandon Strey, Nichole Sullivan, Jennifer Tuttle and Jon Miller Sponsored by American Floral Endowment, Ball Horticultural Company, Uniroyal Chemical Company, National FFA High Individual: East Central HS FFA, Texas—Jon Miller Foundation Nursery And Landscape Winning Team: Franklin Co. HS FFA, Georgia—Gary Sponsored by Arvesta Corporation, Kubota Tractor Minyard (advisor), Jessica Harper, Taylor Ginn, Camilla Corporation, Stihl Inc. Beasley and Joanne Bennett Winning Team: Southwest Star Concept FFA, High Individual: Christiana HS FFA, Delaware—Jennifer Minnesota—Louise Worm (advisor), Whitney Place, Ibanez Jenna Pomerenke and Susan Volk Food Science And Technology High Individual: Southwest Star Concept FFA, Sponsored by ConAgra Foods Inc., Dairy Farmers of America, Minnesota—Jenna Pomerenke The Coca-Cola Company, Ventura Foods LLC Winning Team: Dassel-Cokato HS FFA, Minnesota— Seena Larson (advisor), Maggie Hedlund, Amanda Carlson, Amanda Evenski and Brittany Bayuk High Individual: Dassel-Cokato HS FFA, Minnesota— Maggie Hedlund Forestry Sponsored by BASF, Husqvarna Forest and Garden Company, International Paper Inc. Winning Team: Brantley Co HS FFA, Georgia—Richard Gill (advisor), Erin Vickers, Hampton Ammons, Buck Taylor, Jerrin Flowers and Michael Gilbert High Indivudual: Brantley Co HS FFA, Georgia—Michael Gilbert Horse Evaluation Sponsored by Dodge Division DaimlerChrysler Corporation, Evergreen Mills Inc., KENT Feeds Inc., Roper Apparel and Footwear

Winning Team: Arroyo Grande HS FFA, California—Pete PHOTO BY ED ZURGA Agalos (advisor), Chelsey Miles, Jessica Darway, Jessie Members demonstrated their reporting and broadcasting skills during Gilbert and Jenna Mann the agricultural communications CDE. High Individual: Winfield HS FFA, Kansas—Katlyn Crow Job Interview Parliamentary Procedure Sponsored by Tractor Supply Company Sponsored by Syngenta High Individual: Moses Lake HS FFA, Washington—Julie Winning Team: Bear River HS FFA, California—Steve Sackmann Paasch (advisor), Ron Angold, Elisabeth Guerra, Taraleigh Hoer, Nicole Kelly, David Payne and April Livestock Evaluation Saltenberger Sponsored by Akey/Sunglo, Alpharma, Merial Ltd., Performance Awards Center Poultry Evaluation Winning Team: Crater HS FFA, Oregon—Jeremy Kennedy Sponsored by Adisseo and Tyson Foods Inc. (advisor), Amanda Criswell, Lacie Hoffman, Jennifer Lyle Winning Team: Springdale HS FFA, Arkansas—Dennis and Sarah North Mason (advisor), Samantha Blair, Eric Bakker, Heather High Individual: Crater HS FFA, Oregon—Jennifer Lyle Artripe and Dale Downum High Individual: Springdale HS FFA, Arkansas—Dale Marketing Plan Downum Sponsored by Data Transmission Network, DeBruce Grain Inc., DuPont Company Prepared Public Speaking Winning Team: Walla Walla HS FFA, Washington—Mike Sponsored by FMC Corporation, Agricultural Products Group Martin (advisor), Danielle Gray, Kyle Williams and Mitch High Individual: Chugwater HS FFA, Wyoming—Abby Frazier Kirkbride

19 National Officer Candidates

National Officer Candidates reception sponsored by Agri Business Group Inc. as a special project of the National FFA Foundation.

Alabama: Devin Dotson, Red Bay Arizona: Brian Hogue, Willcox Arkansas: Tory Hodges, Alpena California: Jeff Alves, Galt Colorado: Kaki Little, Weld Central Florida: Emily Hand, Blountstown Georgia: Bo Dotson, Stephens County Idaho: Angeana Little, Sugar-Salem Indiana: Amanda Vore, Hamilton Southeastern Iowa: Stefan Knudsen, Harlan Kansas: Michael Burns, Jetmore Kentucky: Lindsey Mayse, Henry County

PHOTO BY WALES HUNTER Louisiana: Leanna Becnel, Thibodaux The talents of 37 national officer candidates shone through Michigan: Scott Smalley, Ubly during intense interviews, small group situations and a written exam. Only six would be elected to the 2003-2004 team, but Minnesota: Beth Lauwagie, GFW Pioneer Express each displayed the making of a true leader. Mississippi: Christy Windham, Northeast Jones Missouri: Crystal Mathews, Carthage On Saturday afternoon, a lifetime of preparation Montana: Austin Mapston, Denton and study reached its culmination for 37 members, each hoping to hear their name called as a member Nebraska: Amy Rasmussen, Mead of the 2003-2004 National FFA Officer Team. Nevada: Cassie Wyllie, Silver Sage Throughout the week, nine delegates from across New Mexico: Quentin Ray, Grady the country evaluated the candidates as they made New York: Victor Rodriguez, John Bowne their way through a written test, a demonstration of North Carolina: Tasha Schmidt, South Rowan writing skill and a rigorous series of interviews. The long hours of intense discussion and deliberation Ohio: Anne Knapke, Talawanda-Butler Tech resulted in the nominating committee report. Oklahoma: Tracy Smith, Guthrie Upon election, the national officers take a leave Oregon: Mike Folin, Crater of absence from their university studies so they may Pennsylvania: David Bittner, Brothersvalley fully dedicate themselves to their role as ambassa- Puerto Rico: Javier Moreno, S.U. Antonia Serrano dors for agricultural education and FFA. During their year of service, each national officer travels South Carolina: Ashley Granata, BJ Skelton more than 300 days and a distance of over 100,000 Career Center miles, both in the United States and abroad. South Dakota: Micah Hansen, Philip While only six would make up this team of presi- Tennessee: Melissa Burniston, Johnson County dent, secretary and four vice presidents from their Texas: Casey Hogan, Arlington-Martin respective regions, each candidate left Louisville with a sense of pride in representing their state asso- Virginia: Abram McConnell, Holston ciation for one of the greatest responsibilities the Washington: Marissa Wilkie, Medical Lake National FFA Organization can bestow upon a West Virginia: Nathan Taylor, Ravenswood member. Wisconsin: Beth Porior, Oconto Falls Wyoming: Stacia Berry, Cheyenne

20 National FFA Band

Sponsored by the National FFA Foundation. Long before members gathered from across the country to celebrate the 75th anniversary of FFA, Arizona: Christina Turk, Timothy Nieveen, Freeman; Parker Brent Nollette, Cody-Kilgore; music echoed through the convention halls as 96 Kim Snyder, Bayard; students representing 26 states came together to Arkansas: Joshua Kuykendall, Cassandra Thomas, Lyons- Prairie Grove; Jared Sparks, Decatur; Jill Witkowski, celebrate their musical talents. Under the direction of Nashville Freeman Joe LaJoye, the National FFA Band performed at California: Michael Croxen, New Mexico: Valerie general sessions and entertained delegates at the Madera; Becky Pfannmuller, Onsurez, Loving National FFA Band and Chorus concert Friday night. Kelseyville; Courtney Stevens, Part of the selection process for this honor includes Sutter Creek; Samantha New York: Laura Walter, Verdegall, Lodi M.1 Springville the submission of an audition tape, which demonstrates the musician’s level of talent and Connecticut: Tiana Holder, North Dakota: Elisa Buehler, Bloomfield Maddock A. S. Gibbens; Jill ability. To ensure the highest possible number of FFA Peterson, Berthold members can take part in this opportunity, students Illinois: Angela Dudley, Pleasant Plains; Jessica Ohio: David King, may only participate in the band at two conventions. Hanson, Williamsville; Jeff Blanchester; Kelly Litzenberg, In addition to entertaining the thousands who come Potthoff, Williamsville Kenton; Emily Lockwood, to Louisville, the new friendships and treasured Benjamin Logan; Justin Nau, Iowa: Mark Boatwright, Caldwell; Michael Pizzino, memories stay with members of the National FFA Southeast Polk; Ann Gevock, Riverview; Jason Shreyer, Band long after convention. Fairfield; Ryan Koch, Akron- Liberty Union; Nicholas Westfield; Kaylin Schuetz, Waggamon, Elida Sheldon Golden Corn Oklahoma: Sara Smallwood, Kansas: KaCee Thompson, Clayton; Sarah Smith, Central Heights Newcastle Kentucky: John Bell, LaRue Oregon: Sarah Roth, Scio County; Tia Chambers, Christian County; Stephanie South Dakota: Jenna Carlson, Fraley, Montgomery; Kristen Milbank; Megan Whitney, Goodin, Adair County Harrisburg Maryland: Catherine Dietz, Texas: Whitney Allen, Linganore Coronado-El Paso; Lauren Gillespie, Liberty Hill; Caleb Michigan: Paul Mellgren, Higgins, Weatherford; Lindsey Stephenson Lott, Coronado-El Paso; Katherine Wohl, James Minnesota: Jenna Portner, Madison GFW Pioneer Express; Kellie Pulford, Perham Utah: Benjamin Smith, Box Elder Mississippi: Leslie Edwards, Columbus-McKellar Washington: Amy Clark, Mount Vernon; Justin Missouri: Joshua Brookhart, Garrison, Cathlamet; Angela PHOTO BY ED ZURGA Clark County; Gregory Jeffries, St. John; Graham Gholson, Jackson; Lindsay Logen, Stanwood; Andrew Above: Though they only came Grotjan, Keytesville; Amie Stevens, Stanwood together a few days before Harris, Belle; Thomas Higgins, convention to practice, the FFA Linn; Jacob Kallash, Bowling Wisconsin: Christopher Green; Kristen Kallash, Alderman, Kickapoo; Band hit all the right notes. Bowling Green; Derek Michaela Deno, Oconto Falls; Left: Joe LaJoye led the band as Lorence, Green City; Brian Timothy Ecklor, Elkhart Lake- it entertained members and Martin, Centralia; Scott Ray, Glenbeulah; Jaimi Garner, guests during convention Paris; Hannah Robinson, Cadott; Katie Gerlach, Carthage; Sean Silkwood, Marshfield; Christina Huth, sessions, lunch functions and at Trenton; James Trvrdy, Johnson Creek; Anthony various events in and around Cameron; Megan Wyant, Janicki, Gilman; Brian Rieth, KFEC. Trenton Oconto Falls; Nichole Skroch, Whitehall; Craig Stiemke, Montana: Sara Begger, DeForest; Cheree Webster, Wibaux; Cassie Keogh, Gilman; Meagan Weed, Stillwater; Anne Marek, Kickapoo; Chad Wozniak, Missoula Auburndale Nebraska: Jeana Bulling, Waverly; Savannah Dorn, Franklin; Alicia Dreyer, Rushville; Melissa Dreyer, Rushville; Rebecca Dreyer, Rushville; Sarah Hoffman,

Bayard; Abby Knobbe, West PHOTO BY ED ZURGA Point; Jennifer Meter, Bayard; 21 National FFA Chorus

Sponsored by the National FFA Foundation. Alaska: Coltan Bohman, New Hampshire: William Palmer; Fredrick Kenley, Palmer Farris, Winnisquam While students who attend national convention California: Felicia Flud, Grass New Mexico: Chris Arrigo, as members of competing career development event Valley; Alyssa Thornton, Aztec; Deonna Neel, Artesia Visalia-Golden West; Shane teams certainly put in a great deal of practice and New York: Brenna Therrien, Tinker, Kelseyville preparation, members of the National FFA Chorus Greeenville Colorado: Ceri Parker, Limon; should not be overlooked. North Carolina: Issac Morgan Parker, Limon After arriving Saturday, 97 students from 28 Davenport, Plymouth Delaware: Mackenzie states began a series of long rehearsals under the North Dakota: Kyle DeWitt, Phinnessee, Dover; Jessica Park River; Marly Simmons, direction of Patti LaJoye to prepare them for the Wilkerson Caesar, Rodney Park River week ahead. Their hard work was evident, as they Florida: Jeremy Hatcher, Ohio: Nathan Davis, delighted listeners with an array of songs during ses- Umatilla; Amber Jackson, Wellington sions, as well as at the band and chorus concert Sebring Oklahoma: Jessica Allen, Friday night. Georgia: Brandi Saxon, Elbert Holdenville; Matt Catlett, County; Kristi Sommer Vanoy, Coltan Bohman of the Alaska FFA Association Collinsville; Carissa Clinch County was a member of the chorus this year. He comment- Dominquez, Cushing; ed, “It was so cool to meet people from other states! Illinois: Timothy Basham, Christopher James, Morrison; Central of Clifton; Thaddeus Charity Jantz, Woodward; This week was such a great experience, as everyone Tharp, Roseville Joshua Seals, Skiatook; Myles was so accepting of each other and excited to make Simpson, Thomas-Fay-Custer Indiana: Jessica Pursell, Owen new friends. Singing music brings people together Valley; Rachel Rea, Scottsburg; South Dakota: Marilee Akland, and creates such a bond—it’s like we’ve become a Troy Walker, Clinton Central Beresford; Mallory Larson, De Smet; Christopher Odden, whole new family.” Iowa: Jordanne Blair, Lake Miller; Elizabeth Anne Sinclair, City; Chazse Goddard, Central Milbank; JoAnna Clare Strom, DeWitt; Afton Holt, Jewell; Beresford Karissa Muller, Monticello; Heidi Parsons, Fairfield Texas: Deondra Akin, Cedar Park; Stephanie Bonner, Kansas: Thomas Kimbrel, Sinton; Sarah Carpenter, Hillsboro; Kurt Krupp, Snyder; Cassandra Darlin, Ellsworth Snyder; Ricky Early, Snyder; Kentucky: Megan Elizabeth Brittany Glazner, Grapeland; Stout, Spencer County Felicia Ibarra, Snyder; Landin Maine: Brittany McLaughlin, Mathison, Cy-Fair; Jacob Fort Fairfield; Stephen Smith, Muller, Bryan; Lacey Nixon, Mars Hill Uvalde; Elizabeth Anne Parsley, Snyder; Randi Roanhaus, Minnesota: Karin Haase, Henrietta; Tommy Stanley, AFSA; Christian Lilienthal, Kirbyville; Gwenn Winsauer, Sibley East; Brenna Price, Dayton; Michelle Wise, Princeton Kirbyville Missouri: Joanna Bellis, Mount Washington: Darren Larsen, Vernon; Logan Campbell, North Kitsap Trenton; Todd Davis, Kahoka; Whitney Mudd, Monroe City; Wisconsin: Breann Meagan Perry, Bowling Green; Diefenthaler, Waupaca; Amber Laura Puchbauer, Jackson; Harker, Shullsburg; Britta z William Sundwall, Urbana; Hegge, Evansville; Elena Lahti, Sterling Sutton, Smithville; Evansville; LeeAnn Nolte, Katie Anne Voelker, Perryville Winneconne; Bryan Odeen, Loyal; Danielle Russell, Montana: Robert Orednick, Shullsburg Park City; Clayton Unruh, Richey; Wyn Walker, Richey Wyoming: Jacob Gantz, Devils Tower Nebraska: Tertia Allen, Christine Spath; Richard James, Dailey Bayard; Lance Heron, Lakeview; Rachel Johnson, Sutton; Alan Martin Kreifels, Falls City; Drew Marty, Lakeview; Sapphire Munford, Falls City; Carrie Rice, Imperial; Tanya Tvrdy, Waverly; Timothy Varilek, Imperial PHOTO BY SAM HARREL

22 National FFA Talent

Sponsored by the National FFA Foundation. Every year at convention, there is an abundance of talented FFA members. This year was no excep- tion, as students turned in rousing performances throughout the week. Before and during sessions, the audience was entertained with a variety of musi- cal tunes. At the National FFA Talent Show Thursday night, members performed songs, dances and instrumental numbers. FFA talent was also seen in the shopping mall and other places around con- vention. PHOTO BY ED ZURGA

Alabama: Dean Bass, Enterprise; Aaron Brown, Enterprise; Jerad Mississippi: Sabrina Griffith, Enterprise Lincoln; Kayla Boyte, Dyess, Enterprise; Robert Foy, Enterprise; Magen Green, Enterprise; Sumrall Bradley Griffith, Enterprise; Taylor Heaton, Enterprise; Brent Missouri: Karyssa Krutsinger, Branson; Jennings Matney, Branson; Hudgens, Enterprise; Tyler Mills, Enterprise; Brandon Nelson, Mallory Matney, Branson; Danielle Albertson, Eldon; Jason Comer, Enterprise; Allison Norris, Enterprise; Max Oden, Enterprise; Vanessa Eldon; Jennifer Lawrence, Eldon; Leah McConkey, Galena; Miranda Vega, Enterprise; Joseph Waters, Enterprise; Matthew Cole, Leppin, Milan Montevallo; Chris Davis, Montevallo; Tyler Hall, Montevallo; Cody Horton, Montevallo; Lee Berry, Red Bay; Derek Cole, Red Bay; Montana: Danette Deichmann, Hobson Maria Humphries, Red Bay; Melanie Montgomery, Red Bay; Henry Nebraska: Brianna Gulbrandson, Central City; Kyle Perry, Kimball Kent, Tallassee; Jeremy Kilpatrick, Tallassee; Kayla Patterson, Tallassee; Alicea Porterfield, Tallassee; Joshua Drummond, West New Mexico: Steven Chavez, Hondo; Alicia Gallegos, Hondo; Point; William Johnson, West Point; Justin Kelly, West Point; Randy Jamie Garcia, Hondo; Samantha Gomez, Hondo; Derek McTeigue, McBrayer, West Point; Dustin New, West Point Hondo; Maegan Parmley, Hondo; Teka Salcido, Hondo; E.J. Sanchez, Hondo; J.C. Yocum, Hondo Arizona: Megan Holt, Millennium North Carolina: Maegan Wolfe, Ayden-Grifton Arkansas: Tera Turner, Lincoln; Corey Davis, South Side Bee Branch North Dakota: Tiffany Krinke, Scranton California: Katie Cisneros, Selma Ohio: Jeremy Hupman, Greenville Florida: Hannah Leach, Pine Ridge; Wayne Lively Jr., Umatilla Oklahoma: Ashley Ballou, Elgin; Lisha Stasser, Kingfisher; Jennica Kinney, Mooreland; Rachel Smith, Rattan; Joshua Seals, Skiatook; Georgia: Rory Edge, Sumter Co. Haylee Sanders, Sterling; Brandi Morris, Taloga Idaho: Stetson Wilson, Highland Pennsylvania: Carissa Ebersole, Northern Bedford Iowa: Sarah Kleihauer, Akron-Westfield; Amanda Achenbach, Rhode Island: Michael Wodecki, Exeter-West Greenwich Rockford; Elizabeth Campbell, Rockford; Tarah Engelhardt, Rockford; Danielle Fullerton, Rockford; Brianna Kelly, Rockford; South Carolina: Steve “Doug” McCormick, McBee; Andre Lemon, Jennifer Paulus, Rockford; Nicole Shook, Rockford; Ashley Smith, Manning Rockford; Stephanie Staudt, Rockford; Brittney Wenzel, Rockford South Dakota: Tara Trask, Wall Illinois: Cari Ingle, Williamsfield Tennessee: Amanda Hendrix, Dyersburg Indiana: Kelli Hoffman, Columbia City; Mindi Hoffman, Columbia Utah: Shayla Osborn, Dixie City; Jill Brinker, Hope; Rachel Rea, Scottsburg Washington: Katie Webster, North Kitsap Kentucky: Susan Kuegel, Apollo Wisconsin: Haylee Hall, Shell Lake; Kodey Feiner, Sun Prairie; Michigan: Kylee Zdunic, Corunna; Jennifer Green, Hopkins/ Lukas Hallmark, Sun Prairie; Thomas Kazmerzak, Sun Prairie; James Webberville; Patrick Shanabrook, Hopkins/Webberville; Kaleb Kzalheim, Sun Prairie; Michael Kzalheim, Sun Prairie; Paul St. Louis, Wakeman, Hopkins/Webberville; Tony Zapolnik, Sun Prairie; Kirsten Fritz, Verona Hopkins/Webberville Minnesota: Ksana Harrison, AFSA 23 Proficiency Awards PHOTO BY SAM HARREL PHOTO BY KELLY ROGERS

The agricultural proficien- AGRICULTURAL AGRICULTURAL AGRICULTURAL SALES cy award program recognizes COMMUNICATIONS MECHANICS REPAIR - PLACEMENT members for their achieve- Sponsored by Farm Progress AND MAINTENANCE Sponsored by Tractor Supply ments as they gain skills that Companies Inc.; R.R. Donnelley Sponsored by CARQUEST Company; Vigortone Ag Products; help them set and reach & Sons Company; Trone Corporation, CARQUEST The Goodyear Tire & Rubber goals, and provides them Advertising; National FFA Filters/CARQUEST Gaskets Company with an outlet to apply these Foundation Illinois: Tim Tygrett Florida: Joshua Paul Schneider skills in real-life situations. Kansas: Philip B. White Iowa: Matthew Bailey Iowa: Clay Koenig FFA members are reward- Kentucky: Amanda JoAnn Barger Minnesota: Travis S. Gottschalk Ohio: Brian Pohlman ed at local, state and nation- Nebraska: Wravenna Nadyne Wisconsin: Jason J. Cerven Wisconsin: David John Westphal al levels for excellence in Phipps their supervised agricultural Ohio: Priscilla L. Powers AGRICULTURAL AGRICULTURAL experience programs (SAEs). PROCESSING SERVICES A student’s SAE serves as AGRICULTURAL Sponsored by Archer Daniels Sponsored by Chevy Trucks; New the primary opportunity for MECHANICS DESIGN Midland Company; CHS; Holland; GMAC hands-on application of what AND FABRICATION Ralcorp Holdings Inc.; National Connecticut: Ashley B. Porter is learned in the classroom. Sponsored by Carry-on Trailer FFA Foundation Georgia: Michael Chafin Members can work in the Corporation; DaimlerChrysler Louisiana: Timothy Wayne South Dakota: Katie Marie agricultural industry and Corporation Fund; Dodge Clement Jr. Tornberg apply for a placement profi- Division DaimlerChrysler Nebraska: Neal A. Ely Wisconsin: Brady David Quam ciency award, or they can Corporation South Dakota: James Edward start their own business and Missouri: Colin M. Woodworth Haas BEEF PRODUCTION - apply for an entrepreneur- Nebraska: Christopher E. Fiorelli Wisconsin: Michelle L. Backhaus ENTREPRENEURSHIP ship proficiency award. Oklahoma: Jared Dyke Huey Sponsored by Nasco Applications were submitted South Dakota: Chad Kaiser AGRICULTURAL SALES Division/Nasco International Inc.; from all 52 associations, rep- - ENTREPRENEURSHIP Schering-Plough Animal Health resenting each of the 50 AGRICULTURAL Sponsored by Chevy Trucks; California: Casey Bennett states, Puerto Rico and the MECHANICS ENERGY GMAC Idaho: Remington Roland Virgin Islands. SYSTEMS California: Vicktoria Ashley Kendall Sponsored by New Holland Vanderhoof Kentucky: Andrew Moore Bell Arkansas: Corey Wilson Colorado: Devin J. Varner Texas: Daniel Deweber Iowa: Nick Dodson Missouri: Jana LeAnn Thies Kentucky: Chad Benham Wisconsin: Anthony N. Wolf Utah: Joshua Provost Proficiencies are sponsored as a special project of the National FFA Foundation. 24 Proficiency Awards

BEEF PRODUCTION - DIVERSIFIED CROP PLACEMENT PRODUCTION - Sponsored by Fort Dodge Animal PLACEMENT Health; ContiBeef LLC; Pfizer Sponsored by National Crop Animal Health; Texas Cattle Insurance Services; Rain and Hail Feeders Association LLC; American Farm Bureau Illinois: Megan R. Quaka Insurance Services Inc. Missouri: Jamie Dawn Bellis Illinois: Brandon Cole Smith Utah: Brandon John Tinker Nebraska: Michael William Zmek Wisconsin: Adam Freis Texas: Rowdy Cubie Wisconsin: Matthew Todd DAIRY PRODUCTION - Repinski ENTREPRENEURSHIP Sponsored by DeLaval Inc.; Pfizer DIVERSIFIED Animal Health HORTICULTURE - California: Robert Joseph Teixeira ENTREPRENEURSHIP Sponsored by Farmland Insurance

Michigan: Joshua Crambell PHOTO BY KELLY ROGERS Washington: Melissa Randi Nationwide Agribusiness; Kortus Nationwide Foundation DIVERSIFIED EQUINE SCIENCE - Wisconsin: Colby N. O'Malley California: Kristin Ann Avinelis LIVESTOCK ENTREPRENEURSHIP Indiana: Drew Carter PRODUCTION - Sponsored by Purina Mills Inc; PLACEMENT DAIRY PRODUCTION - Kansas: Rebecca Joann Corn Red Brand Non-Climb Horse PLACEMENT Wisconsin: Benjamin J. Lindner Sponsored by Premium Standard Fence/Made by Keystone Steel Farms; Agri Beef Company; and Wire Company; National Sponsored by Monsanto Animal Zareba Systems FFA Foundation Agricultural Group DIVERSIFIED Connecticut: Jenna Nicol Illinois: Fahran Kathaleen Connecticut: Sarah Jeanne Baker HORTICULTURE - Georgia: Michael James Certain JayRobb Georgia: Josh Stewart PLACEMENT North Dakota: Nathan Thomas Michigan: Kirk Johnson North Dakota: Dustin Heitkamp Sponsored by Bayer Environmen- Horner Missouri: Scott Hill Wisconsin: Troy Sellen tal Science; Arvesta Corporation; Gowan Gowan Wisconsin: Julie Eibergen Utah: Amy Pallesen DIVERSIFIED Minnesota: Charlie Peterson Ohio: Mark R. Thomas EMERGING EQUINE SCIENCE - AGRICULTURAL AGRICULTURAL PLACEMENT PRODUCTION Tennessee: Dustin Wallace TECHNOLOGY Sponsored by Tractor Supply Sponsored by PotashCorp Wisconsin: Nicole Lynn Skroch Sponsored by Chevy Trucks & Company Alabama: Gary Carr GM Vortec Engines; ISK Georgia: Merideth Bryans Kansas: Chase Bontrager DIVERSIFIED Biosciences Corporation; Micro South Dakota: Wayne Mark Ohio: Jason Rufenacht LIVESTOCK Flo Company Robison Wisconsin: Kevin James Konkol PRODUCTION - ENTREPRENEURSHIP Kansas: Zane Wesley Unrau Tennessee: Heather J. Olsen Sponsored by ContiBeef LLC; Oregon: Kindra Nelson Utah: Tiffany Clegg DIVERSIFIED CROP South Dakota: Megan Marie PRODUCTION - Intervet Inc.; Tractor Supply Company Chilson FIBER AND OIL CROP ENTREPRENEURSHIP Wisconsin: Michael G. Biel PRODUCTION Sponsored by CHS California: Kim Forsythe Missouri: Cody M. Brock Sponsored by Syngenta Seeds Indiana: Shane Steven Hageman Oklahoma: Ruth I. Bobbitt ENVIRONMENTAL Inc.; United Soybean Board Minnesota: Jacob Sellner Utah: Dusty Ercanbrack SCIENCE AND Kentucky: Pamela K. Coffey North Dakota: Kevin J. Teigen NATURAL RESOURCES Missouri: Alesa Ann Raasch Ohio: Nicholas A. Arnold Sponsored by IMC Global Inc. Nebraska: Chris Marsh Iowa: Michael Dominic Hilger South Dakota: Jason Edward Biel Kansas: Derrick D. Fagg Nebraska: Katie Ann Jenkins South Dakota: Ryan Brunner

25 Proficiency Awards

GRAIN PRODUCTION - OUTDOOR PLACEMENT RECREATION Sponsored by Pioneer Hi-Bred Sponsored by Chevy Trucks; International Inc. Cabelas Inc.; Justin Brands Inc. New Mexico: Quentin Paul Ray Florida: Waylon Sean Lewis Oklahoma: Nathan W. Johnson Georgia: Melody Bryans Texas: Rex E. Brandon Kansas: Matt Clark Wisconsin: James Pagel Missouri: Benjamin Thomas French HOME AND/OR COMMUNITY POULTRY DEVELOPMENT PRODUCTION Sponsored by Carhartt Inc. Sponsored by Wayne Farms LLC; Nebraska: Ryan James Becker United Soybean Board; Chore- Oregon: Allen Bodeen Time Equipment Division of CTB Utah: Loral W. Godfrey Incorporated Wisconsin: Kristine H. Zickert Florida: Ryan Ean Smith Georgia: Nicole Leigh Cisson LANDSCAPE Michigan: Anthony David MANAGEMENT Karhoff Sponsored by Bayer, Washington: Alexis Rose Leonard Environmental Science Nebraska: Matt Bland SHEEP PRODUCTION PHOTO BY SAM HARREL Oklahoma: Blake Talley Sponsored by LA-CO All FLORICULTURE FOREST Oregon: Donovan Tyson Stevahn Weather Paintstik Markers; Sponsored by Home Depot Inc. MANAGEMENT AND Wisconsin: Andy McWilliams Wrangler Michigan: Kimberly S. Leonard PRODUCTS Iowa: Matt Owens Nebraska: Matt Vlasin Sponsored by DaimlerChrysler NURSERY Kentucky: Laura Kay Comer North Carolin: Justin Hunter Corporation Fund; Timberjack, a OPERATIONS Nebraska: Shelly R. Kubicek Lowe John Deere Company Sponsored by DaimlerChrysler Washington: Jason Dockter Texas: Callie Nichole Gilbreath Florida: Mike W. Adams Corporation Fund; John Deere Georgia: Amanda Kate Hamsley Indiana: Neil Mylet FOOD SCIENCE AND Illinois: Bruce P. Frank Ohio: Justin J. Armintrout TECHNOLOGY Texas: Michael Parsley Oregon: Sean Robert Snodgrass Sponsored by Seneca Foods Virginia: Brittany R. Stansberry Corporation; CHS; National FRUIT PRODUCTION FFA Foundation Sponsored by DuPont Company Kentucky: Trey Webb California: Mike Shoffner Nebraska: Sara Elizabeth North Carolin: Jeremy Ponce Morrissey Utah: Marc A. Rowley Texas: Jamie Lee Callahan Wisconsin: Ryan Rezin Wisconsin: April Lynn Gnadt GRAIN PRODUCTION - FORAGE PRODUCTION ENTREPRENEURSHIP Sponsored by Gehl Company; Sponsored by Pioneer Hi-Bred National FFA Foundation International Inc. Kentucky: Richard Wayne Medley Nebraska: Timothy Brovont Missouri: Blake A. Wilson Ohio: Brian Wayne Deaton Oklahoma: Chance Simpson Tennessee: Justin Lee Humphrey Wisconsin: Ryan M. Franz Washington: Anne Christine Meyer PHOTO BY SAM HARREL

26 Proficiency Awards

SMALL ANIMAL PRODUCTION AND CARE - ENTREPRENEURSHIP Sponsored by Novartis Animal Health US Inc. Indiana: Bradley Eugene Clayton Kansas: Michelle Lea Sullivan Kentucky: Charlee Nicole Doom Wisconsin: Melissa Mateske

SMALL ANIMAL PRODUCTION AND CARE - PLACEMENT Sponsored by Iams Kansas: Sarah J. Oestmann Nebraska: Cherish J. Williams North Carolin: Chelsea Brittain Bradshaw Texas: Laci Hackfeld PHOTO BY KELLY ROGERS

SPECIALTY ANIMAL SWINE PRODUCTION - VEGETABLE PRODUCTION PLACEMENT PRODUCTION Sponsored by Land O’ Lakes Sponsored by Phibro Animal Sponsored by Briggs & Stratton Farmland Feed LLC Health; Akey/Sunglo Corporation Foundation Inc. Florida: Matthew James Moody Georgia: Thomas M. Walraven Colorado: Richard Bradley Illinois: Bethany Marie Wilson Minnesota: Andrew Allan Kamm Lindenmayer Louisiana: Kasye Bourn Missouri: Steve J. Brandt Nebraska: C. J. Swanson Texas: Brandi Kneupper South Dakota: Josh Jerrold Ohio: Chris Shaw Blindert Wisconsin: Cindy S. Lulich SPECIALTY CROP PRODUCTION TURF GRASS WILDLIFE Sponsored by BASF; Cerexagri MANAGEMENT - PRODUCTION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP MANAGEMENT - Kentucky: Michael Thomas ENTREPRENEURSHIP Cambron Sponsored by The Scotts Company Missouri: Bradley L. Anderson Georgia: James William Thaxton Sponsored by Bass Pro Shops Ohio: Stacy Marie Burkholder Kansas: Chad Ebbert Inc.; Land O’ Lakes Farmland Tennessee: Paul White Minnesota: John N. Heise Feed LLC Utah: Jeremy Catron Illinois: John E. Schamberger Nebraska: Jared LeRoy Fullerton SWINE PRODUCTION - Utah: Chase Brereton ENTREPRENEURSHIP TURF GRASS Wisconsin: Eric Schroeder Sponsored by Pfizer Animal MANAGEMENT - Health PLACEMENT WILDLIFE Florida: Victoria Louisa Lyons Sponsored by Bayer PRODUCTION AND Missouri: Jenny L. Smith Environmental Science MANAGEMENT - Ohio: Kisha Lynell Bodey Connecticut: David Robert PLACEMENT Wisconsin: Barbara Elizabeth Golembeski Jarek Indiana: Paul Joseph Hellmich Sponsored by National FFA Nebraska: Cody Osten Foundation Utah: David Robbins Georgia: Clint Edward Collins Iowa: Cody Jon McKinley Minnesota: Jena Marie Sazama Missouri: James M. Baker

27 American FFA Degree

Sponsored by BASF Corporation, Case IH, Farm Credit System Santa Maria-Righetti; Malinda Bragg, Hanford; Heath Duinkerkin, Lemoore; Shingle Springs-Ponderosa; Scott Aaron Echavarria, Corcoran; Heather Foundation and Pioneer Hi-Bred International Inc. as a special William Brown, Rio Vista; Angela Ephraim, Quartz Hill; Andrew Ernst, project of the National FFA Foundation. Buckley, Tulelake; Melissa Burrow, Indio; Mike Escola, Lemoore; Darrell Lemoore; John Bush, Lemoore; A. J. Espindula, Hilmar; Jeff Evangelo, Camozzi, Santa Rosa-Elsie Allen; Jose Lemoore; Justin Patrick Ferrell, The American FFA Degree is the highest level of mem- L. Cardenas, Calipatria; Sergio Atascadero; Hatti Fleming, Rio Vista; bership an FFA member can achieve. This year, 2,789 young Cardosa, Corcoran; Thomas Carver, Kimberley Fletcher, Tulare Union; men and women received the degree. To qualify, members Bakersfield-North; Chris Chave, Erica Jane Flores, Santa Ynez; Kim Dixon; Corey Christison, Lucerne Forsythe, Mariposa; Laura Jayne must have their greenhand, chapter and state degrees. Valley; Amber Cleaver, Bakersfield- Fortman, Atascadero; Jordan Freitas, In order to receive this honor, other requirements must Ridgeview; Scott Cocke, Norco; Lemoore; Kassandra French, Fresno- also be met. Members must have achieved a C average in Ashley Cockrell, Cedarville-Surprise Central; Raymond Gamez, Corcoran; high school and they must have graduated at least one year prior to receiving the degree. Students need three years of agricultural education and an outstanding supervised agricultural experience program (SAE). In addition, members must demonstrate leadership abilities and community involvement. Less than 0.5 percent of all members earn the American FFA Degree. This prestigious degree encourages members to grow personally while establishing a foundation for a successful career in the agricultural industry. Degree recipients were recognized on stage and honored at an award banquet.

Alabama:William W. Blanton, Fort Joanna Chambers, Camden-Fairview; Payne; Nick Corley, Beulah; James Craig Dewey, Farmington; Bethany Simon Davis, Gaston; Devin Dotson, Deann Dunn, Mountain Home; Red Bay; George Wesley Evans Jr., Matthew Lee Fryar, Lake Hamilton; Smiths Station; Kristin Holland, Red Josh Garner, Melbourne; Josh Gordon, Bay; Jason Knight, Southside; Mansfield; Rachel Green, Valley Christopher Paul Kuszniaj, Springs; Robert Seth Harper, Jacksonville; Elizabeth Newby, Danville; Tory Beth Hodges, Alpena; Ardmore; Robert Benjamin Noblett, Dusty Key, Cabot; Shannon Lewis, Eufaula; Gannon Nunley, Red Bay; Harmony Grove; Shelly Reynolds, Matthew Evan O’Neal, Douglas; Justin Fairview; Gannon W. Roberts, Valley Heath Roberts, White Plains; Jessica Springs; Aaron Rae Thompson, Fouke; Brooke Rush, Lineville; Daniel Sewell, Jason Thompson, Mansfield; James Southside; Barrett D. Stephenson, Parks Tullis, Mountain Home; Jamie Eufaula; Jessica Elizabeth Stiefel, Turnbo, Mountain Home White Plains; Dustin Wood, Eufaula California: Meghan Abatti, Paso Arizona: Michael Anspach, Parker; Robles; Charles Abee, Strathmore; Stephani Austin, Westwood; Patrick Mark Aguiar, Tulare Union; Erin Bray, Tolleson; Robert H. Bray, PHOTO BY ED ZURGA Ahlem, Hilmar; Robert Alvarado, Benson; Ginnie Catherine Bushong, Fresno-Pershing; Lacey Amarante, Gilbert; Dana Ann Crosbie, Yuma; Gustine; Jennifer Arnall, Grass Valley- Valley; Cassie Cockrell, Cedarville- Jennifer Garcia, Lemoore; Christopher Abigail Dambeck, Yuma; Johnathan Bear River; Tara Ascroft, Lakeside-El Surprise Valley; Jeanelle Colburn, Garmon, Santa Paula; Emily Gay, Dees, Yuma; Brian Dykman, Benson; Capitan; Rose Atherton, Porterville; Fallbrook; Winston Alexander Colgan, Lakeside-El Capitan; Amanda Gipe, Amanda Lynn Gapen, Highland; Jess Charles Avila, Lemoore; Jessica Avila, Chico; James Jason Corbett, Tulare Merced-Golden Valley; Roger Manuel A. Gillum, Peoria; Kristine Hammar, Lemoore; Trey Avila, Visalia-Golden Western; Lauren Corkins, Porterville; Gonsalves II, Hilmar; Anna Good, Westwood; Erika Hernandez, West; Crystal Balderama, Porterville; Daniel Costa, Hanford; Amanda Ramona; Preston Gravance, Laton; Amphitheater; Brian Hogue, Willcox; Cory Balis, Sanger; Elvis Barcellos, Courtney, Grass Valley-Nevada Trevor Green, Morro Bay; Andrew Patricia Danielle Johnson, San Simon; Lemoore; Arthur Bard, Riverside-La Union; Michael Courtright, Newman- Joseph Groppetti, Kerman; Jose Jacob Lee, Benson; Brandon Joseph Sierra; Phillip D. Bass, Ferndale; Orestimba; Brian Keith Davis, Guillen, Santa Maria-Righetti; Martin, Benson; Cassandra Jo Moore, Brandon Bedrosian, Sanger; Niklaus Madera; Nicholas Ray Davis, Madera; Anthony Haley, Lemoore; Amber Willcox; Nicolas Joel Morando, Beglinger Jr., Hamilton City; Casey Wade DeCesare, Tulare Western; Renee Hallsten, Kingsburg; Bobbi Amphitheater; Aubrey Mortensen, Bennett, Porterville; Melissa Melissa Deitz, Hamilton City; Martha Harmoney, Nicolaus-East Nicolaus; Duncan; Amber Rayl, Amphitheater; Bettencourt, Turlock; Garrett Bishop, Delgadillo, Calipatria; Dustin Sara Harper, Lincoln; Daniel Hart, Todd Rovey, Buckeye; Holly Renee El Centro-Southwest; Dennis Dean DeMello, Lemoore; Audrey Denney, Lompoc; John Herger, Patterson; Nick Schindler, Buckeye; Jamie Leigh Blackman, Riverside-Norte Vista; Paso Robles; Kate DeSchryver, Santa Heuer, Elk Grove; Kyle Hibbs, Wade, Young; Carson White, Safford; Tyler Blagg, Grass Valley-Bear River; Ynez; Angie Dettamanti, Lompoc; Sacramento-Florin; Lisa Hill, Raymond E. Woodbury, Millennium; Josh Blair, Kerman; Daniel Bledsoe, Kasey deVries, Laton; Anne Marie Porterville-Monache; Justen M. Michael Wayne Zamudio, Benson; Woodland; Ashley Marie Blount, Diener, Riverdale; Bryan Dodson, Hindle, Santa Maria; Heather Lauren Zbyszinski, Peoria Turlock; Matthew Bono, Tulare Chico; Megan Doherty, Lake Isabella- Holland, Lemoore; Benjamin Tyler Arkansas: Pamela June Burkett, Western; Cheyanna Bosio, Coalinga; Kern Valley; Tessa Domenichelli, Hone, Escondido; Tamara Hoskins, Springdale; Caroline Carpenter, Sherry A. Bosworth, Burney; Alicia Healdsburg; Kelly Brandon Douglass, Middletown; Casey Howard, Lake Cabot; Justin Andrew Cason, Valley Bowen, Bakersfield-North; Leoma Hamilton City; Frank Duarte, Isabella-Kern Valley; Elizabeth Springs; Jessica Dale Catlett, Danville; Box, Tollhouse-Sierra; Kimberly Boyd, Newman-Orestimba; Jeremy Duarte, Howard, Lemoore; Manuel Huerta,

28 American FFA Degree

Delano; Johnnie Irvin, Visalia-Golden Tulare Western; Joshua Loutzenhiser, Flagler; Michael Marsh, Dobbins, Riverview ; Wade William West; Amanda Irwin, Dixon; Nicole Schaubschlager, Clovis; Jason Fort Lupton; Brandon Mason, Merino; Dye, Suwannee Sr.; Rudy Espinoza, Crystal Jansen, Woodland; Hector Schoonhoven, Chowchilla; Krysten Cassie M. McMillan, Weld Central; Miami Sr.; Jeffrey Ray Everett, Sneads; Jimenez Jr., Santa Maria-Righetti; Michelle Schott, Valley Center; Kari Anthony Megel, Hi-Plains; Andrew Leigh Anne Hamilton, Riverview ; Kayla Johnson, Santa Maria-Righetti; Schroeder, Coalinga; Mark Scott, R. Mills, Hi-Plains; Kathleen Renae Emily Dianna Hand, Blountstown; Jessica Jopson, Nicolaus-East Nicolaus; Mariposa; Brandon Serafin, Tulare; Paintin, Kit Carson; Kameron Peschel, Robert Herrington, South Lake; Jenee’ Jue, Lemoore; Dan Junk, Loriann Sesock, Madera; Sierra Shew, Valley; Jani Phillips, North Park; Hannah Jackson, Suwannee Sr.; Lakeside-El Capitan; Jay M. Kimbler, Porterville; Alicia Shuck, Bakersfield- Seandale Poe, Fort Morgan; Shawna Gregory Scott Johnson, Plant City Sr.; Tollhouse-Sierra; Lauren P. King, Highland; Steve Signorelli, Lompoc; Potter, Pueblo County; Adam Emily Danielle Land, Lafayette Sr.; Petaluma; Clayton William Ashley Smith, Porterville-Monache; Sandefur, Custer County; Dallas James Tanya Larman, Miami Sr.; Rebecca Koopmann, Livermore; Heidi Ashley Smith, Shingle Springs- Schleining, McClave; Stacey Thomas, McDavid, Bell Sr.; John Tate Mikell, Kooyman, Fallbrook; Andrea Lynn Ponderosa; Lexey Smith, Orland; Lisa Valley; Duke Webb, Valley; Ben Williston Sr.; Brad Muse, Bradford Krout, Petaluma; Lisa Krpan, Elk Smith, Lake Isabella-Kern Valley; Weber, McClave; Daniel Ray Weber, Senior; Brandon Perdue, Northview; Grove; Heath Krug, Colusa; Jessica Meghan Anne Soderstrom, San Luis McClave; Skyler Weeks, Eads; Jason Knox Phillips, Miami Sr.; Joshua Lawrence, Tulare Western; Shelena Obispo; Matthew Soto, Santa Maria- Weirich, Eads; Steven Winters, Valley; Steven Reynolds, DeLand; James Dawn Laws, Loomis-Del Oro; Shaina Righetti; Aaron Souza, Newman- Amanda J. Wofford, North Park; Ray Aaron Shuler, Sneads; Melissa May Leach, Oceanside-El Camino; Orestimba; Adam Souza, Santa Maria- Wudtke, Idalia Stanley, North Marion Sr.; Natalie Matthew Thomas Llewellyn, Reedley; Righetti; Chris Souza, Lemoore; Ann Sullivan, Keystone Heights Sr.; Connecticut: Amy Augur, Lyman Bridget L. Luscombe, Tulelake; Katie Christine St. Pierre, Chowchilla; Tommy Taylor, Suwannee Sr.; Kelli E. Hall; Vincent L. Bernardo, Lyman Jolane Lyon, Escondido; Jose Kimberly Stackhouse, Palo Cedro- Veal, South Sumter Sr.; Barton James Hall; Cheryl Danton, Lyman Hall; Maldonado, Santa Maria; Matthew L. Foothill; Kenneth Stafford, Santa Wilder, Plant City Sr.; Joel Heath Tiffany A. Duncan, Woodbury; Manes, Orangevale-Casa Roble; Eric Maria; Chad Everett Steinmetz, Rio Williams, Williston Sr.; Justin Ryan Courtney L. Johnson, Woodbury; Martin, Coalinga; Isaias Martinez, Vista; Alan Stickles, Mariposa; Williams, Bonifay Sr. Stacy Lynn Kish, Northwestern Fresno-Pershing; Carrie Massie, Lacyanne Sullivan, Lemoore; Julie Regional; Jessica Kukielka, Georgia: David Adams, Central of Riverside-Rubidoux; Shamberlee Swartzbaugh, Lemoore; Jarrod Southington; Michael F. Lavoie, Carroll; Alan Amos, Upson-Lee; Ben McCarter, Sacramento-Florin; Morgan Takemoto, Sanger; Robert Teixeira, Lyman; Stephen Russell, Housatonic Brooks, Upson-Lee; Melissa Marie McCoy, San Marcos; Laura Del Hilmar; Adam Terry, Dinuba; Randy Valley; Sharon E. Sugrue, Woodbury; Cleary, Tift County; Stephanie Bianco McGee, Madera; Bradley Threadgill, Merced-Golden Valley; Martin Alfonso Vito, Mattabesett; Michelle Cleary, Tift County; Caci Webster McLean, Lindsay; Justin Alyson Tulloch, Pine Valley-Mountain Michelle Warner, Lyman Hall Evette Cook, Johnson County; Joey Mebane, Bakersfield-North; Albert Empire; Todd Uchita, Tulare Union; Crapps III, Swainsboro; Lee Davis, Manuel Mendes Jr., Turlock; John Amy Valente, Lodi-Tokay; Robert Delaware: Philip Busker, Lake Forest; Cook; Joseph Bo Dotson, Stephens Menezes, Laton; Joseph Richard Vallejo, Porterville; Juliana Van John Curtis, Lake Forest; Christy N. County; Molly Caroline Freeman, Merritt, Granite Hills; Gary Miles, Egmond, Galt; Jason Verdegaal, Gustafson, Lake Forest; James Andrew Eagle’s Landing; Chet Hite, Gordon Grass Valley-Bear River; Sandra Lynn Hanford; Christina Vieira, Merced- Powell, Caesar Rodney; Phillip Central; Matt Isbell, Franklin County; Mitchell, Escondido; Tom Monk, Golden Valley; Martin Vivenzi, Sylvester, Lake Forest Jason Douglas Morris, Eagle’s Landing; Dixon; David Moon, Fresno-Central; Fresno-Central; Kevin Wagster, Florida: Leanne E. Bailey, Columbia Jay Murray, Colquitt County; Larry Amber Neal, Lemoore; Kelly Neal, Atascadero; Jason Wara, Madera; Sr.; Ben Barthle, Dade City Sr.; Jessica Michael Muse, Central of Carroll; Riverside-Norte Vista; Heather Tammara Warmuth, Auburn-Placer; Nielsen, Phelan-Serrano; Daniel J. Jolyn Wells, Maxwell; Jordan Whaley, Odom, Reedley; Nichole O’Quinn, Visalia-Golden West; Jennifer Coalinga; Martina Otterbeck, Sanger; Wickstrom, Hilmar; John S. Williams, Lisa M. Otto, Orland; Shauna Jean Santa Maria-Righetti; Raymond E. A. Owens, Santa Rosa-Elsie Allen; Williams, Santa Maria-Righetti; Stacy Jordan Lee Parsons, Porterville; Joshua Wills, El Centro-Southwest; Gregory Pedrozo, Merced-Golden Valley; Jason Gordon Wilmot, Etna; Matthew R. Perry, Shingle Springs-Ponderosa; Wilterding, Fallbrook; Norman Winn, Kevin Pharis, Grass Valley-Nevada Grass Valley-Nevada Union; Alison Union; Rocio Pineda, Bakersfield- Nicole Wohlgemuth, Kingsburg; Lance North; Mike Pires, Lemoore; Jacob H. James Wright, Rio Vista; Travis Poganski, Auburn-Placer; Jonathan D. Wyrick, Lemoore; Jeremy Yarbrough, Poganski, Auburn-Placer; Mark Coalinga; Christina C. Young, Fresno- Powell, Santa Maria; Nicolina Central; Tory Zellick, Chico; Katrina Prestininzi, Fallbrook; Cody Preston, Zimmer, Weaverville-Trinity Lake Isabella-Kern Valley; Justin D. Colorado: Nate I. Adam, Hotchkiss; Pritchard, El Centro-Southwest; Alice Trevor Amen, Fort Morgan; Kendal Anne Purdy, Sacramento-Florin; W. Bauman, Grover; Robert Lee Beal, Amber Quatacker, Porterville; Phillip Hi-Plains; Brian Berry, Custer County; Rafanan, Fresno-Washington; David Jessica R. Borns, Eads; Ryan Britten, Ramirez, Calipatria; Ernesto Ramos, Karval; Heidi Carbaugh, Pritchett; Dixon; Megan Renker, Kelseyville; Kyle Carbaugh, Greeley West; Chase Allan Rios, Merced-Golden Valley; Carlin, Burlington; Nikki Carpenter, Stacy Robinson, Newman-Orestimba; Hotchkiss; Cari Chelewski, Rifle; John Katherine E. Roche, Chico; Megan E. Crocket, North Park; Jonathan PHOTO BY ED ZURGA Renee Rogers, Campbell-Westmont; Davis, Burlington; Donald Edson, Fort Megan Roland, Porterville; Joe Rosa, Morgan; Cory Franz, Burlington; Behrens, Durant Senior; Elizabeth Craig Patrick Pace, Effingham County; Modesto; Mary Calla Rowan, Melinda Fury, Dove Creek; Levi Michelle Bell, Lake Butler Sr.; Kristopher Wallace Pope, Jefferson Healdsburg; Michelle Rudnick, Lake Garchar, Dolores County; Jimmy Joe William Isaac Bender, Plant City Sr.; City; Kyle Franklin Presley, Jackson Isabella-Kern Valley; Monte Rudnick, Gebauer, Akron; Benton Hendrix, Mindy Bielling, Lake Butler Sr.; Leon County; Scott Register, Putnam Lake Isabella-Kern Valley; Chad Allen Wray; Anthony S. Ingo Jr., Pueblo Creig Blackburn II, Lake Region; County; William Crane Ross II, Russell, Turlock; Jared Samarin, County; Justin Jameson, LaVeta; Herbert E. Brown III, Bell Sr.; Oconee County; Christine Sheppard, Kerman; Erica Samons, Orland; Katherine Lynn Johnson, Platte Courtney Brooke Davis, Lake Butler Putnam County; Abby Elizabeth Sarrah G. Samson, Healdsburg; Justin Valley; Tyler Kuntz, Hotchkiss; Zac Sr.; Shannon Leigh Davis, Durant Sr.; Spruill, Jackson County; Trisha Rae Sandlin, Chowchilla; Devon Rachel Langston, Custer County; Sara Lindsey Regina Davison, Lake Butler Stephens, Tift County; Chad Andrew Sandrock, Anderson; Craig Santos, Lewton, Weld Central; Kelli A. Sr.; Lauren Dillard, Dade City Sr.; Kia Till, Oconee County; Jonathan Willis, 29 American FFA Degree

Oconee County; Walter G. Wright Jr., Jones, Rockwell-Sheffield; Ben Effingham County Kerkman, Hudson; Brad Kinsinger, Mid-Prairie; Anthony J. Knepper, Idaho: Thomas Barrett, Middleton; Cascade; Stefan Daniel Knudsen, Trina Callahan, Middleton; Levi Kirk Harlan; Clay Koenig, Marengo; Chandler, Weiser; Donna Sage Clark, Matthew Merlin Kuecker, Algona; Firth; Katie Cobler, Kuna; Neil T. Matthew Lee Kuker, Wapsie Valley; Durrant, Kuna; Kelsey Firth, Richfield; Matthew Gerald Kurt, Cascade; Tina Mark Hatch, Castleford; Riley Thomas Marie Lake, Edgewood Colesburg; Higby, Payette; Brandon Hoxie, Brandon Louis Laubenthal, Algona; Payette; Dali R. Jayo, New Plymouth; Kris Lindsey, Central Trail of Leon; Casey Johnson, Meridian; Chad Andrew Link, Valley; Lee D. Lovik, Dustin Johnson, New Plymouth; Charles City; Daniel Madsen, Gregory Steven Johnson, Meridian; Audubon; Christopher McCulloh, Stephanie Kuespert, Parma; Joseph E. DeWitt Central; Landi McFarland, Limbaugh, Fruitland; Chad Martin, Mount Ayr; Clifford James McKinley, Vallivue; Kristine Kay Miller, North-Linn; Lane Kyle McMullen, Marsing; Tara Diane O’Dell, Fruitland; Anamosa; Troy Patrick McQuillen, Joshua John Patton, Bliss; Kristina Cascade; Holly Meester, Mount Ayr; Patton, Burley; Travis Port, Troy; Tony Mercer, Mount Ayr; Joshua Connie Remsberg, Minico; Lisa Jean PHOTO BY ED ZURGA Lester Merrill, Anamosa; Nathan Jon Scheihing, New Plymouth; James M. Morrisonville; Pete Thompson, Madren, Pendleton Heights; Jake Meyer, North Fayette; Colin Moser, Shoemaker, New Plymouth; Keaton Ashton; Sarah Tweet, Minooka; Martin Jr., Shenandoah; Cole Eric West Lyon; Chad Norman, Humboldt; Southwick, Dietrich; Steve Staley, Timothy J. Walsh, Serena; Jason West, Mathas, Riverton Parke; Darron Erik Michael Oberbroeckling, Tri-Star; Burley; Jacob A. Stimpson, Dietrich; Goreville; Ilse Catherine Williams, McCrary Jr., Sullivan; Brandon S. Matt Ohms, Anita; Chad A. Olesen, Crystal Taggart, Nampa-Skyview; Milford; Jennifer Lynn Wolf, Bushnell- McQueen, Corydon Central; Jacob Charles City; Christopher Olsem, Alicia Marie Ward, Snake River; Prairie City; Linda Kay Woods, Barry; William Menchhofer, South Ripley; Edgewood-Colesburg; Alyx Marie Matthew K. Woodington, Meridian Rebecca Yandell, Vienna; Michelle Daniel L. Miller, Shenandoah; Daniel Oshel, Osceola Big Chief; Derek Dean Zimmerman, Eureka W. Mitchell, Hagerstown; Justin Illinois: Damian Adams, Clifton Quam, Creston; Elizabeth Ratashak, Mohler, Western Boone; Melissa Jo Central; Matthew E. Allen, Delavan; Indiana: Pamela Amstutz, South Murray; Joshua C. Remington, Linn- Muhlenkamp, Jay County; Aaron Kathryn Lee Baker, Barry; Andrew Adams; Heather Ariens, Rushville; Mar; Andrew Rens, Rock Valley; Nally, Tri-County; Hanna Phillips, Bertolino, Nokomis; Emilee Bocker, Jeremy Allen Armstrong, Switzerland Maranda Reuter, Waverly-Shell Rock; Clinton Central; David R. Ramey, Eastland; Tiffany Buerk, Taylorville; County; Kristen Kay Baker, Clinton Russell Dean Richardson, Central Hagerstown; Matthew J. Roberts, Brenna Elizabeth Burnett, Hinckley- Central; Ryan Ballard, Shenandoah; Trail of Leon; Brent Ricklefs, Wawasee; Hans Schmitz, North Posey; Big Rock; Adam Cappel, Rochelle; Matthew D. Barrick, Sheridan; Kalen Anamosa; Rachael Noel Riesselman, Michael Seibert, North Posey; John Steven Shane Clodfelter, East S. Bell, Clinton Prairie; Chris Carroll Area; Matthew E. Rohrig, Stauffer, Southern Wells; Derek Richland - Olney; Ashley Conover, Blakenberger, North Posey; Vince Orient-Macksburg; Cody Roller, Thompson, East Noble; Tristand Liberty; Branden Craig, Galva; Josh Bollenbacher, South Adams; Casey W. Monticello; Nicholas George Rooney, Tucker, Clay City; Amber Utter, Daugherty, Roanoke-Benson; Nick Bruns, Union City Community; David Rockwell Sheffield; Joseph Wayne Tippecanoe Valley; Kelly Anne Vogel, Daugherty, Taylorville; Drew Michael J. Burkett, South Ripley; Justin Busick, Ruhland, Akron-Westfield; Casey South Ripley; Amanda Marie Vore, DeRiemacker, Geneseo; Lisa M. Orleans; Chelsea Joann Carter, Schares, Jesup; Tyler Shelquist, Albia; Hamilton Southeastern; Matt C. Earing, Tri-Point; Alison Ann Floto, Southmont; Amanda Jean Matthew John David Shultz, Benton Voshell, Adams Centra; Stacie J. Oregon; Neil Frank, Athens; Chelsea Chamberalin, North Newton; Leslie Community; Joshua T. Smith, Warner, Whitko; Sara Waymire, Frost, Porta; Jeremy Gibbs, Roanoke- Clark, Shenandoah; Sarah Elizabeth Cascade; John Sobotka, Laurens- Pendleton Heights; Lance Wealing, Benson; Ryan Heaton, Jacksonville; Clark, Tri-County; David A. Craig, Marathon Tall Corn; Drew Sponheim, Tri-County; Jennifer L. Welp, Forest Josh Owen Hill, Taylorville; Nathan Hagerstown; Chad Michael Crews, St. Ansgar; James Luvern Sprung, Park; Adam Wendholt, Forest Park; Hodel, Roanoke-Benson; Mitchell Clinton Central; Kyle C. Culp, Rockwell-Sheffield; Jacob D. Stien, Laura S. Williams, Fountain Central; Hurliman, Cissna Park; Jennifer Jones, Bellmont; Adam B. Culy, Hagerstown; Benton Community; Gary Sullivan, Nathan Douglas Williamson, Wesclin; Douglas Kahle, Prairie Kristen E. Culy, Hagerstown; Nicole Harlan; Nicholas J. Thole, West Northeastern Wayne Central; Jay Thomas Kelley, M. Cunningham, Hagerstown; Renee Delaware; Matthew G. Trask, Princeville; Seth King, Blue Ridge; Deatsman, Warsaw; Jeff Demerly, Tri- Iowa: Derek Andreas Balk, Tri Star; Humboldt; Adam Vonnahme, Anna Christine Klingler, West County; Bradley Jay Dowty, Isaac A. Bowers, Alburnett; Ryan L. Glidden-Ralston; Mark Weigel, West Richland; Rick Koehler, Roanoke- Southmont; Jacob Eisterhold, North Bru, Gladbrook-Reinbeck; Pete Ryan Delaware; Ashley Anne Wendt, Benson; Neal Kuester, Cissna Park; Posey; Tristan Leigh Emery, Mount Burmeister, LaPorte-Dysart; Tom Starmont; Peter Whitman, DeWitt Daniel M. Lamoreux, Eastland; Kent Vernon; Jonathan Franks, West Noble; Cannon, Newton; Everett Charlson, Central; Ashlie Ann Wiebbecke, Leesman, Hartsburg-Emden; Eric Chris D. Fuller, North Daviess; Wes Clarion-Goldfield; Lisa Christians, Wapsie Valley; Justin Wilkinson, Lowery, Bluford; Darrin L. Martin, Gearhart, North Miami; James Robert Wapsie Valley; Calli Cook, Anamosa; DeWitt Central; Brent A. Wuthrich, West Richland; Megan Mast, Liberty; Gibbs, Shenandoah; Sheila Glunt, Terrence E. Cook, Cascade; Joshua A. Davis County; Chris Yarkosky, Albia; Brendon Mehochko, Nokomis; Sheridan; Jonathan Michael Graves, Corcoran, Fredericksburg-Sumner; Aric Yaw, Decorah; Katie L. Zumbach, Shannon Melliere, Valmeyer; STAR Academy; Bryan Gretencord, Melissa Davis, Wayne; Randy Monticello Christina J. Merriman, Bluffs; Jessica Tri-County; Mark Haseley, Bremen; Derscheid, Mount Ayr; Nick Dodson, Kansas: Lindsay Archer, Winfield; Murphy, Hillsboro; Brett Obert, David Heater, Rossville; Justin Ryan Prairie Valley; Jessica Drey, Red Oak; Kristina Bauman, Sabetha; Daniel Liberty; Alexis L. Pope, Lincolnwood; Hill, Rossville; Jesse Hubble, Sullivan; Jessica Edge, Humboldt; Cassie Otto Berges, Onaga; Kasie LeAnn Mallory Lynn Rahe, Bluffs; Amber Adam Ingle, Lewis Cass; Ryan Ehrman, Benton Community; Bogart, Arkansas City; Bradley J. Ray, Tri-Point; Derek C. Reed, Jackson, Shenandoah; Katie Lynn Christina Marie Erickson, Harlan; Brunkow, Onaga; Dean Martin Burns, Ashton; Taplia J. Renfrow, Normal; Keith, Hamilton Southeastern; Travis Abe Fischer, DeWitt Central; Jason Jackson Heights; Kelly Carlson, Mike Roach, Sycamore; Brandon A. Kiesel, Gibson Southern; Josh Gearhart, West Delaware; Lynnea Sabetha; Austin L. Cline, Onaga; Robinson, Clinton; Jordan Ruppert, Mark Knight, Huntington North; Kara Golding, Alburnett; Jaclyne Hamlett, Edwin Joseph Cooper, Altoona- Nokomis; Mary Schwarz, Highland; Kohlhagen, Rensselaer; Lance Koontz, Starmont; Travis Jon Handrock, Midway; Levi Ebert, Rock Creek; Joshua Seyfert, Paxton-Buckley-Loda; Hagerstown; Andrew R. Korb, Central Trail of Leon; Wesley M. Derrick Fagg, Arkansas City; Carla Steven Kreegier Shiley, Monticello; Franklin County; Benjamin Leu, Hosch, Cascade; Kayla Jean Hotvedt, Feese, Crest; Johanna Marie Forgy, Matthew Lane Shriver, Unity; Josh St. Prairie Heights; Doug Lindauer, Forest Decorah; Chad Hull, Montezuma; Onaga; Randall Gerberding, Peters, Greenville; Karen M. Stuart, Park; Jacob Lindauer, Forest Park; Joey Ray Ihrig, Maquoketa; James Wellington; Amy Good, Oakley; Taylorville; Joshua L. Sullivan, Cody Paul Linville, Frankton; Sara Johnson, Preston/East Central; Brad

30 American FFA Degree

Grant Good, Blue Valley; Jacqueline County; Christopher A. Estes, C. Thompson, Fleming County; Clay Hogberg, Mason; Sarah Howard, Haas, Arkansas City; Erin J. Heinen, Jessamine County; Kevin Anthony Tilford, Heath; Melina Rene Todd, Ravenna; Melissa Joy Huff, Allegan; Downs-Cawker City; Phil Hoffman, Estes, Woodford County; Sarah Ezell, Spencer County; Bradley M. Warren, Royce C. Humm, Breckenridge; Chapman; Orrin Holle, Atwood; Logan County; Nikki Floyd, Garrard Washington County; Tracy Carol Andrew Korson, Ravenna; Amanda Spencer Jacobs, Holton; Laney D. County; Chevelle Dawn Franks, Wolfe Webb, Montgomery County; Nathan Lawrence, Homer; Rob Liebengood, Kathrens, Holton; Travis Kuntz, County; Phillip Robert Gerrow, C. Whelan, Meade County; Joseph Corunna; Amber Marie Peet, Ithaca; Chapman; Jacob K. Lauer, Holcomb; Woodford County; Devon Michelle Williams, Caldwell County; Kristina Brian Edward Pincik, Corunna; Johni Lee, Southwestern Heights; Gillum, Breathitt County; Holly Jean Williams, Caldwell County; Amanda J. Quinlan, Ithaca; Shannon Loran Lefert, Chapman; James Renee Gilpin, Green County; Joshua Megan Williams, Allen Co-Scottsville; Ratkowski, Bronson; Trina Riggie, Michael Lockhart, Wellington; Caleb James Goodwin, Lone Oak; Adam Adam Paul Wilson, Owsley County; Breckenridge; Crystal Schulz, Van Mattix, Cherryvale; Tate A. Grant, Madison Southern; Melanie David E. Wilson, Jackson County; Unionville-Sebewaing; Terry James Maxwell, Holton; De Ann R. Green, Apollo; Dustin Gumm, Owsley Gregory Wilson, Calloway County; Schulz, Unionville-Sebewaing; Scott McCauley, Highland; Daniel Miller, County; Joshua Michael Gumm, Leigh Ann Wilson, Wolfe County; Smalley, Ubly; Jeremy Sova, Ithaca; Winfield; Katie Lea Morris, Arkansas Owsley County; Daniel Hall, Wade Woodard, Logan County; Brandon Lynn Strong, Waldron; Eric City; Cameron Paul Moser, Onaga; Jessamine County; Rodney Hall, Nicholas Dale Woods, Owsley County Lee Tannehill, Alma; Matthew Kaci Elaine O’Brien, Cherryvale; Livingston Central; Laura Ashley Thomas, Homer; Kayla Marie Tuggle, Louisiana: Leanna R. Becnel, Justin S. Orton, Erie; Katie Jo Hanks, Logan County; C. Christopher Ithaca; Dana Veddler, Wexford- Thibodaux; Samantha Frances Bell, Patterson, Jackson Heights; Matthew Hatton, Wolfe County; Kristie Missaukee; Sarah Wise, Lapeer Vo- Ebarb; Wesley Groves, Stanley; D. J. Pilkington, Winfield; Ronny Pope, Haynes, Breckinridge County; Robert Tech; Kyle Yackle, Laker; Megan Haley, Mansfield; Nichole T. Roach, Blue Valley; Laura E. Priest, Sabetha; Head, Apollo; Joshua Earl Heath, Zuehlke, Birch Run Ruston Craig Pringle, Winfield; Blair K. Ray, Graves County; Paul Edward Helton, Minnesota: Jeremiah James Holton; Nick Regier, Moundridge- Wolfe County; Jay Patrick Henderson, Maryland: Kelly Lynn Burrier, Ackermann, Jackson County Central; Hesston; Stephen Gile Russell, Pike Breckinridge County; Christopher Ed Walkersville; Jessica M. Jager, Harford Neil Aho, Menahga; Brock Anderson, Valley; Jeffrey Schmidt, Haven; Sam Hendrick, Central Hardin; Adam Tech Menahga; Theresa Marie Appel, Shrack, Chapman; Ben Stockebrand, Hendricks, Logan County; Amanda R. Michigan: Brandon Bertram, Lapeer Maple River; Robert C. Arends, Ada- Yates Center; Dustin Suffield, Centre; Hendricks, Logan County; Shelbie A. Vo-Tech; Thomas Braid, Corunna; Borup; Brent Arndt, Jackson County Jenna Tajchman, Centre-Lost Springs; Hillard, Jessamine County; William Nicole Campbell, Durand; Chris Central; Casey Becker, Spring Valley- Megan Tegtmeier, Hanover; Lance R. Robert Holloman, Crittenden County; Creguer, Laker; Sheena Marie Cross, Wykoff; MaryAnne Bedtke, Visser, Riley County; Luke Wohler, Ethan Daniel Holloway, Logan St. Louis; Jamie Lyn Daniels, Plainview; Ashley Diane Bell, Clay Center; Kyle Zwahlen, Labette County; Brian Hopkins, Hickman Standish-Sterling; Luke Daniels, Perham; Angie Bengtson, New County County; Meredith E. Hughes, Logan County; Stephen Kelly Hunt, Kentucky: Robert D. Alexander, Reidland; Kendra J. Hurt, Logan Christian County; Melinda Sue County; Zack Ison, Mercer County; Anderson, Bath County; Kimberly Bret Jackson, Bourbon County; Dawn Angel, Jackson County; Brad Dewayne Jessee, Metcalfe County; Anglin, Garrard County; Chad Matt Jolly, Logan County; Brandon K. Anglin, Garrard County; Jill Baldwin, Jones, Metcalfe County; Bruce Kuegel East Carter; Jamie Barker, Garrard Jr., Apollo; Josh Lancaster, County; Sara Barnes, Livingston Breckinridge County; Matthew Bruce Central; Mickey Barrett, Owsley Lindsey, Edmonson County; Andrea County; Bryce Baumann, Madison Lunsford, Jessamine County; Melinda Southern; Philip Logan Beyke, Daviess Mallory, Jessamine County; John County; Jeremy Wayne Binkley, Allen Mason, Bourbon County; Jason Crittenden County; Jarrod Birch, Massey, Caldwell County; Amelia L. Grayson County; Gregory Travis Blair, Mayabb, Wolfe County; Lindsey Johnson Central; Kristy Lane Board, Mayse, Henry County; Phillip G. Breckinridge County; James T. Bond, McCauley, Harrison County; Adam B. Caldwell County; John Charles McCord, Fleming County; Rhonda Bowman, Owsley County; Emily Middleton, Garrard County; Jeremy Branstetter, Metcalfe County; Brett Miller, Madison Southern; Susan Joseph Burns, Owsley County; Samuel Rogers Mitchell, Henderson County; F. Burt, Johnson Central; Ronald E. Matthew Murphy, Apollo; Justin Bush, Wolfe County; Chris Butcher, O’Bryan, Apollo; Kyle Penick, Todd Bath County; Jeffery J. Campbell Jr., County Central; Adam Probst, Scott Logan County; Erika R. Carson, Wolfe County; Tashia Marie Rash, Bullitt County; Heidi L. Chism, Wolfe Central; Lacey Ratcliff, East Carter; County; Casey Chittenden, Livingston Douglas W. Reynolds, Owsley County; Central; Daniel S. Clemmons, Jackson Randall Riffe, East Carter; Robin County; Pamela Coffey, Southwestern; Schwartz, Apollo; Stephanie Nicole Kevin L. Collignon, Daviess County;

Sexton, Crittenden County; J. PHOTO BY SAM HARREL Jessica Collins, Meade County; Matthew Simpson, Warren East; Kyle Matthew Combs, Wolfe County; John Whittemore-Prescott; Nicholas R. London-Spicer; Rhonda Kay Bitker, Jeffrey Skidmore, Bullitt Central; William Conn, Jessamine County; Dhyse, North Huron; Michael Doan, Tracy Area; Jared Lee Bitzan, Megan Allison Smart, Bourbon Dustin Allen Cooper, Owsley County; Wexford-Missaukee; Leyna Neil Alexandria; Alicia Blunt, Litchfield; County; Daniel C. Smith, Logan Brian Christopher Cornell, Nelson Dussel, Cassopolis; Joshua Kyle Patsy A. Bruckhoff, United South County; Jeremy Lawrence Smith, County; Kasey Cox, Daviess County; Ferrier, Dansville; Kyle Freeman, Central; Joel Busch, Albert Lea; John Washington County; John G. Smith, Laura Evelyn Crump, Bourbon Corunna; Calby Garrison, Lenawee Cavanaugh, Spring Valley-Wykoff; Taylor County; Estill J. Smith Parsons, County; Krista Lee Curtis, Caldwell Vo-Tech; Garrick Griffith, Ogemaw Ryan James Christensen, Battle Lake; Owsley County; Daniel Starnes, County; Christopher Davis, Garrard Heights; Jerry Ray Grigar, Ithaca; Gaylord Christianson, Norman Edmonson County; Evan Tate, County; Stephanie Rae Dones, Nelson Kristin Gruett, St. Louis; Robert County West; Holly Covington, New Breckinridge County; Adam Douglas County; Travis Scott Drake, Ohio Kevin Haag, Unionville-Sebewaing; Ulm; Sarah Cunningham, Sioux Teater, Jessamine County; William C. County; Rebecca Duncan, Apollo; Laura M. Hamlin, Webberville; Jodi Valley-Round Lake-Brewster; Terrill, Wolfe County; Jay Conrad James Daniel Edgington, Garrard Marie Harper, Montague; Emily Matthew Deml, Owatonna; Penni Thompson, Carlisle County; Lucinda

31 American FFA Degree

Dicke, Goodhue; Ben Drescher, Neshoba Central; Hope Chunn, Mandi Lea Bulen, Memphis; John Hoffman, Lebanon; Matt J. Houx, Alden-Conger; Catherine Erding, Neshoba Central; Gordon Taylor Randall Bullard, Ashland; Chris Burk, Holden; Chris Huth, Boonville; Scott Spring Valley-Wykoff; Mark Flatgard, Cliburn, Lawrence County; Isaiah Richmond; Michelle Burkart, Jackson, Bowling Green; Danny Jackson County Central; Shell Chere Cochran, Carthage; Brian Dunn, Columbia; Julie Burns, Fair Play; Jaspering, Warrenton; Charles Cordell Franks, Perham; Daniel L. Fritsche, Neshoba Central; Jared Freeman, Danny Campbell, Eugene; M. Lane Jenkins III, Rolla; Jared Jennett, New Ulm; Jonathan S. Gorentz, Mize; Tera Canoy Jefferson, Brooklyn; Campbell, Memphis; Johnie Ray Sarcoxie; Luke Jennings, Holden; Lacy Perham; John N. Heise, United South Kimberly R. Legg, West Jones; Clint Carroll, Lakeland; Diane Chapin, Jewell, Hamilton; Justin D. Jokerst, Central; Emily Hjelle, New London- Logan, Neshoba Central; Kenneth West Plains; Lucas Chapman, Rolla; Ste. Genevieve; Cynthia Rene’ Jones, Spicer; David G. Hove, United South Bradley Lowery, Taylorsville; Blake Christenson, Branson; David Houston; Valerie Keltner, El Dorado Central; Kelly JoAnn Hove, Staples Christopher Ryan Mathis, Hinds Clark, Knox County; Amanda J. Springs; James Kennedy, Halfway; Motley; Jason Jenks, Minnewaska; Community College Collegiate; Dusty Clevenger, Braymer; Kim Clevenger, Melissa Kenney, Stockton; Janise Samuel James Jens, Tracy Area; McCaughn, Forest-Scott; Donald Joe Gallatin; Jon Close, Green Ridge; Eric Morgan Kerperien, Campbell; Justin Megan Kappers, Spring Valley-Wykoff; Nowell, Neshoba Central; Crystal R. Cochran, Holden; Thomas Scott Kessler, Washington; Adam Kimrey, Cassandra Kuball, Waterville-Elysian- Lane Palmer, Pine Grove; Justin Coleman, Macon; Mary Jo Colley, Lebanon; Emily B. Kittle, Memphis; Miller; Blake Conrad, South Shelby; Steven A. Kline, Mid Buchanan; Cole Andy J. Cook, Willard; Jon Cook, Knipp, Tipton; Eric Kopmann, Macon; Franklin (Troy) Cooley, State Warrenton; Gabrielle N. Kral, Eldon; Fair; Megan Amanda Cooper, Lori M. Kurzweil, Archie; Justin Stanberry; Rebekkah E. Cornine, Robert Kyle, Cole Camp; Rachelle Smithville; Adam Good Cotton, St Marie Lacy, North Harrison; Chad Joseph; Gregory Edward Cox, Silex; Lathrop, Nevada; Kristi Lawrence, Schuyler Cox, North Central Career Aurora; Travis Legleiter, Nevada; Center; Tiffany D. Crews, Slater; Adam Lewis, Ashland; Drew C. Liles, Yukon Curtis, Clopton; Sara Kaylene Nevada; Sarah Loehr, St. Clair; Cushard, Nevada; Stephanie Christopher Lohmann, Perryville; Dempsey, Pleasant Hill; Jeffrey Lance Jeremy Dale Lorenzen, Santa Fe; Doug DeWeese, Brunswick; Richard Ludwig, Jackson; Randall Dean DeWitt, Macon; Chris J. Dieckman, Mabary, Skyline; Heather Magruder, Cole Camp; Ryan Dignan, Worth Clopton; Lee Magruder, Clopton; County; Cheyenne Marie Dockins, Luke W. Mahnken, Higginsville; East Newton; Ashley Suzanne Adam Tyler Markt, South Holt; Billi Douglas, Richland; Jesse A. Dunkle, Marriott, Northwest Technical Lex La Ray; Bonnie J. Eads, Kansas School; Bianca Starr Martin,

PHOTO BY ED ZURGA City East; Chris Eckenfels, Ste. Woodland; Lydia Martin, South Genevieve; Serena Diane Ehlers, El Shelby; Julie Marx, St Joseph; Victoria Morristown; Katherine Marie Lanoue, Pennington, Lawrence County; Jason Dorado Springs; Wesley Embree, Van- Lottie Mathews, Carthage; Christina Tracy Area; Chauntel Larson, New Rogers, Independence; Chase B. Far; Brent Erisman, Centralia; Katie Mattingly, Farmington; Derek London-Spicer; Jesse R. Larson, Rutland, Lawrence County; Katie Estes, Richmond; Richard Evans, McCauslin, Chillicothe; Chad Albert Lea; Beth Marie Lauwagie, Taylor, Petal; Cody O. Tucker, Clopton; Chad Farris, Russellville; McCormick, Woodland; Amy GFW Pioneer Express; Carrie Lien, Brooklyn; Matthew Vance, Forest- Greg Ficken, Green Ridge; Rachel McCrea, Maysville; Jeremy McGill, Montevideo; Scott Robert Scott; Jason Vasquez, Carthage; Findley, Pleasant Hill; Kyle L. Fischer, California; Doug McLain, Meadville; Mackenthun, Glencoe-Silver Lake; Christy Claire Windham, Northeast Van-Far; Ashley Season Fisk, Buffalo; Scotty McMahon, Richland; Todd Jessica Ann Meemken, Battle Lake; Jones Kyle D. Forkner, North Callaway; McVicker, Boonville; Jara Lynn Thomas O. Miller, United South Missouri: Ashley L. Akeman, Sweet Ryan K. Fountain, Eldon; JaNetta Mease, Galena; Brooke Lynn Meek, Central; Matthew J. Modrow, Perham; Springs; Denver Alsup, Fair Grove; Fowler, Adrian; Luke Fraley, Thayer; Maysville; Jared Meyer, Salisbury; Daniel Nelson, Norman County West; Michael Brandon Bachmann, Gail Ann Fricke, Higginsville; Travis Justin J. Meyer, Cole Camp; Robert L. Trent A. Olson, Lewiston-Altura; Perryville; Dustin Bauer, St Joseph; Fricke, Higginsville; Thomas Allen Meyer, Brunswick; Steven Miesner, Paul Paplow, Sioux Valley-Round Emma Lea Baxter, Logan-Rogersville; Frickenschmidt, Lockwood; Amanda Perryville; Kurt P. Miller, Mound Lake-Brewster; Garrett Pommeranz, Chris Beach, North Shelby; Eric James Frieze, Willard; Bethany Frieze, City; Steven Miller, Brunswick; Waterville-Elysian-Morristown; Jason Bell, Willard; Owen Drew Bender, Morrisville; Bryce Robert Garland, Johnathan Minor, Grundy Co. R-5; J. Resch, Jackson County Central; South Holt; Matthew Benedict, Odessa; Eric Gegg, Ste. Genevieve; Katie Morris, Green Ridge; Lora Muri, Lindsay Joleen Schliep, Zumbrota- Skyline; Joshua Bird, Ozark; Joshua A. Lindsey Raye Gentry, Brookfield; Jamestown; Jordan N. Naeger, Ste. Mazeppa; Jacob Sellner, Sleepy Eye; Birke, Union; Justin Bishop, Aurora; Chris Gerlt, Versailles; Casie Renee Genevieve; Timothy Andrew Neislein, Jennifer Ann Sellner, GFW Pioneer John Joseph Blackburn, South Gervy, Stet; Thomas F. Gibbs, Verona; Perryville; Kacie Nelson, Macon; Express; Kamaria Linn Skoglund, Callaway; Lacey A. Bledsoe, Eldon; Brian Russel Gillis, Butler; Adam Laura Nichols, DeKalb; John Tracy Area; Jayne Smith, Maple Nicole Beth Bloemendaal, Glenn, Charleston-Danforth; Nathan Niemeyer, Bowling Green; Rachel E. River; Sarah M. Staton, Benson; Northwestern; Christian E. Bonar, Lee Granneman, Milan; Casey Nivens, Miller; Brett L. Nordwald, Adam Stegemann, Jackson County Sweet Springs; Amanda M. Bonner, Greene, Jasper; Andrew Greenwood, Warrenton; Josh Norton, Pleasant Central; Melinda Kay Swanson, Fordland; Bethany Irene Bourgeois, Hamilton; Bryce Gregory, Clopton; Hope; Kory J. Norton, Memphis; Stillwater; Lindsay Takala, Cherry; Clark County; Samantha Bowman, Sarah L. Grubb, Memphis; Adam G. Karen Null, Woodland; Doug O’Dell, Sarah Tesmer, Fillmore Central; South Shelby; Jessica Lynn Bradley, Gudde, Holden; Buddy Hager, Tina Avalon; Kyle O’Leary, Aurora; Megan A. Theede, United South Macon; Jessy Bradley, Knox County; Higginsville; Tony Dwayne Haile, Wade Joseph Orscheln, Fatima; Amy Central; Josh Tommerdahl, Norman Jonathan Bradley, Knox County; Celia California; Kendal Scott Hall, Osner, Lakeland; Heidi Osner, County West; Troy Tyrrell, Staples- Brammer, Carrollton ACC; Bobby Richmond; Jason Hamilton, Lakeland; Adam Ross Owen, Motley; Eric Visser, Ada-Borup; Julie Bramwell, Crest Ridge; Andrew Princeton; Jeremy Hamilton, Republic; Michael G. Owens, Alicia Voigt, Southland; Eric A. Brandt, Concordia; Jason Braun, Ste. Princeton; Taylor Nicole Hankins, Woodland; Sarah Owens, Fordland; Volsen, United South Central; Genevieve; Josh Breshears, Nevada; Lakeland; Fallon E. Harden, Eldon; Blake R. Parker, Gallatin; Jeffrey Michael P. Wellens, Chaska; Jacob Adam Brinker, North Callaway; Kara Brandy Nicole Hastings, Lockwood; Parkison, Walnut Grove; Andrew Yost, Nicollet; Joshua Alan Britt, Salisbury; Cody M. Brock, Stet; Lindsay Morgan Haymes, Mount John Parks, Chillicothe; Megan J. Zeithamer, Alexandria; Cris Jacob Merryl Brookhart, Clark Vernon; Sabrina Marie Hayward, Cole Perry, North Shelby; Melinda R. Zimmerman, Norman County West; County; Bryan Brotherton, Camp; Adam Henderson, Mexico; Peterson, Archie; Laura J. Petty, Joshua Zylstra, Worthington Chillicothe; Kyle Brundage, Dustin Hensley, Jasper; Justin F. Smithville; Joseph Caleb Philipps, Lex Mississippi: Arron F. Chunn, Princeton; Brandon Buerck, Perryville; Hicks, West Plains; Chelsea La Ray; Tawney Pickett, Princeton; Higginbotham, Seneca; Adam Krystal M. Pittman, Kansas City East;

32 American FFA Degree

Michelle Porter, Jasper; Mark D. Chillicothe; Colin Woodworth, Odell; Sheldon G. Epp, Heartland; Thomas J. Pinkelman, Hartington; Randall, Ashland; Gena Rasmussen, Chillicothe; Matthew T. Yokeley, Matt Erb, Milford; Ryan James Fairley, Sarah Jane Placke, St. Paul; William E. Owensville; Patrick McCoy Reach, Marshall; Marc Zell, Meadville Fairbury; Angela E. Feilmeier, Pohlmeier, Lawrence/Nelson; Austin Miller; Sara Rechterman, Higginsville; Hartington; Steve Fiala, Milford; Post, Syracuse; Shane Potter, Montana: Shawna Michele Acord, Charlie Reece, Butler; Lisa Marie Caleb Fintel, Sutton; Cody Fred, Loup Raymond Central; Joe Radke, Belgrade; Mary Anne Anderson, Big Rees, Jasper; Brooks Cowan Reid, County; Tessa Lynn Frenzen, Centennial; Lilly April Rager, Timber; Travis Ray Bain, Richey; Chillicothe; Leah Dawn Reid, Sweet Fullerton; Neal A. Friesen, Heartland; Ravenna; Justin Ramm, Stuart; Kyle Nick Beck, Deer Lodge; Aaron Beil, Springs; Dale Renfro, Archie; Carrie Sean Gleason, Holdrege; Michael Brady Rasmussen, Blair; Scott Hinsdale; Jay Blankenship, Miles City; Rennison, Braymer; Justin Richardson, Anthony Gordon, Logan View; Reinhart, Albion; Matthew Rempe, Bridger Boyd, Shields Valley; Travis J. North Harrison; Garret A. Rives, Melissa Green, Wheeler Central; Superior; Lance Riley, Milford; Brown, Huntley Project; Sharla Woodland; John Cory Robinson, Jeremy Greving, Central City; Amanda Romshek, East Butler; Bryant, Missoula; Amanda Holly Maysville; Adam A. Rolf, Tarkio; Shannon Griess, Sutton; Jaclyn Rae Nathan Patrick Ronnau, North Bend Cloud, Stevensville; Cole James Cook, Skylar Rolf, Tarkio; Tyler Rolofson, Grundman, Nebraska City; Tracy Central; Kane W. Schmall, Bayard; Miles City; Cody A. Dallas, Shields Tarkio; Curtis Scott Rouse, Houston; Hadenfeldt, Centura; Jessica Hain, Nate Schmidt, Hampton; Ben Scott, Valley; Lance Thomas Durgan, Park; Matthew H. Ryan, Milan; Elizabeth K. Hampton; Christopher J. Hanke, York; Falls City; Sara Seidel, Burwell; Ken Kevin Elias, Chinook; Chris E. H. Sapp, East Newton; Melissa Schad, Christopher Thomas Hansen, Simons, Centura; Jeremy Dale Fritz, Flathead; Clayton Gernaat, Versailles; Chad Schaffter, Tipton; Medicine Valley; Matthew Ryan Sklenar, Ravenna; Ashley Jo Skrdlant, Conrad; Kristen Goetz, Clarks Fork; Robert Eugene Schatzer, California; Hanson, Bloomfield; Calvin Havener, Blue Hill; Melissa Smith, Laurel- Sarah Lee Hogemark, Big Timber; Joseph Anthony Schneider, Milford; Katie Heiden, Hampton; Concord; William David Smith, Shanna Huckins, Broadus; Lacey A. Warrenton; Terry J. Schneier, Janelle Hobbie, Nebraska City; Adam Wheeler Central; Cara Snider, Hunter, Stevensville; Cole Idland, Perryville; Casey Lynn Schroff, North C. Hoebelheinrich, Hartington; Wheeler Central; Jonathan Soper, Richey; Bruce Evan Johnson, Forsyth; Central Career Center; Laura A. Joshua Charles Howard, Scottsbluff; Aurora; Matthew Soukup, North Bend Jodie Frances Johnston, Forsyth; Schwarz, East Buchanan; Seth Sam Howard, Hampton; Scott Hula, Central; Leah Spath, North Bend Bridget Kanning, Plentywood; Joseph Seedorf, Sarcoxie; Heather Lynn East Butler; Joseph Alan Jessen, Central; Jason Stark, Plainview; Katie Patrick Kiel Jr., Miles City; Nikkie Shauck, Eldon; Rachelle J. Shiflett, Bloomfield; Rebekah Marie Jessen, Sterkel, Sutton; Courtney R. Stottler, Marie Logan, Miles City; Cooper Smithville; Elizabeth Shipley, Bloomfield; Valerie Dawn Johnsen, Crofton; Bob Strudl, Albion; Ashley Martin, Conrad; William Louis Northwest Technical School; Alan Lewiston; Brandy Johnson, N. Stuart, Nebraska City; Dillon McIntosh IV, Deer Lodge; Lyndsey Shippy, Crest Ridge; Joseph Shively, Leigh/Clarkson; Cassandra Marie Stutzman, Centennial; Aaron D. Alexis Merchant, Broadus; Mary Monroe City; Laura L. Simmons, Johnson, Verdigre; Dustin E. Johnson, Sudbeck, Hartington; Sarah Swanson, Meyer, Stevensville; Dustin Mielke, Eldon; Jeffrey B. Sims, Sweet Springs; Bloomfield; Josh Johnson, Holdrege; Pender; Jeff Timmermans, Sutton; Conrad; Russell Mosher, Shepherd; Sarah Smalley, Stockton; Gregg Travis P. Jueden, Hartington; Chad Dustin Michael Tomes, Centennial; Lance Nelson, Big Sandy; Laurie Smithson, Humansville; Phillip Junck, Randolph; Joel Kaelin, Ansley; Tim Vest, Ashland-Greenwood; Elizabeth Page, Judith Gap; Mark Snodgrass, Hamilton; Jessica Spencer, Charlene Anne Kastanek, Wilber- Stacey Vlasin, Crete; Brice Volker, Patterson, Columbus; Scott Perkins, Mid Buchanan; Brad Starbuck, Clatonia; Amanda Keep, North Loup- Norris; Jess Waddell, Sutton; Veronica Deer Lodge; Brodie Pierce, Park; Ben Schuyler R-I; Margaret L. Stark, Scotia; Elizabeth Keep, North Loup- Anne Waddell, Republican Valley; Robertus, Park City; Elizabeth Eldon; Dustin Stegeman, Fatima; Scotia; Kevin Keller, Spencer-Naper; Kirby K. Wagner, Creighton; Matthew Sarrazin, Shields Valley; Jo Anna Matthew James Steiger, Ste. Gregory Dale Klipp, Hampton; Beau Walford, Centennial; Ryan D. Lynn Sarrazin, Shields Valley; Tyler Genevieve; James Everett Stevens, Klug, Lakeview; Kori K. Kock, Logan Walrath, Cedar Rapids; Alan J. Sarrazin, Shields Valley; Miranda North Central Career Center; Gera View; Kristen Dawn Korinek, Wilber- Werner, St. Edward; Eric Whitney, Sather, Chinook; Jason Scarpholt, Stewart, North Callaway; Gretchen Clatonia; Justin Kreman, Bayard; John Milford; Mallorie Faith Wilken, Richey; Meghan Sederholm, Fergus of Stiefel, North Shelby; Lee Brooke Charles Krohn, Albion; James Crofton; Cherish J. Williams, Lewiston; Lacie Shackelford, Stockhorst, Columbia; Kyle Stolzer, Kunzman, Albion; Andrew Labenz, Schuyler; Farris C. Williams, North Plentywood; Rylee Jean Strauser, Ste. Genevieve; Austin Story, Newman Grove; Steve Landon, Loup-Scotia; Ryan A. Windhorst, Chinook; Dennis Mason C. Tobiason, Gallatin; Kaylee Stramel, Carthage; Waverly; Jolene Rose Latter, Wilcox; Syracuse; Kyla Wize, Gothenburg; Flathead; Hiede Wandler, Eddie Bruce Strobel, Concordia; Cliff Daniel W. Laughlin, Lawrence/Nelson; Adam Wollenburg, Tri County; David Stevensville; Ted Wiegand, Shelby; Stundebeck, Salisbury; Zeb Sturgeon, Nicholas John Lenhoff, Randolph; Wood, Palmyra; Vicki L. Wray, Ord; Michael Ray Wiltse, Broadus East Newton; Adam Summerlott, East Jessica Long, Wauneta-Palisade; Wade Susan Znamenacek, Wilber-Clatonia Prairie; Austin Blake Swafford, Nebraska: Cole Andrew Anderson, J. Lorenz, Randolph; Lance Manker, Nevada: Cali Allen, Ruby Mountain; Savannah; Brandon Lee Swafford, Centennial; Jena Anderson, Republican Valley; Elizabeth Maricle, Erica M. Awbrey, Ruby Mountain; Savannah; David Swaters, Lakeland; Gothenburg; Blaine Christopher Albion; Christopher Marsh, Rochonne Burgess, Ruby Mountain; Adam Swearingin, Lathrop; Jaymie Andrews, Hampton; Matthew K. Hartington; Craig S. Marsh, Jose M. Casas, Wells; Samantha Michele Tate, Ashland; Lucas L. Applegarth, Wauneta-Palisade; Hartington; Erin Michele Mattern, Cavender, Ruby Mountain; Ashley Thogmartin, Neosho; Jennifer D. Nathan Michael Baack, Centennial; Norfolk; Gregory E. McClanahan, Ganguet, Silver Sage; Ericka Huether, Thompson, Willard; Justin Thorn, Adam Scott Backer, Randolph; James West Holt; Michelle L. McHenry, Silver Sage; Amanda J. Hylton, Wells; Sarcoxie; Jason W. Tibbles, Gilman Lynn Banahan, Fairbury; Halley Hampton; Bobbi Jo McMillan, Julie Morrison, Silver Sage; Edwin C. City; Ross Timmerberg, Hermann; Beekley, Wilber-Clatonia; Michael Albion; Jennifer Lynn Meier, Sarman III, Silver Sage; Kati J. Lance Trankler, Jackson; Brian Tubbs, James Bergen, Heartland; Pamela Hartington; Luke A. Meyers, Superior; Sundseth, Silver Sage; Rebecca Supp, Mound City; Krystel Renee Tubbs, Bergstrom, Plainview; Maggie Bernt, Stuart William Miller, Lyons-Decatur Wells; Sarah Vipham, Ruby Mountain; Mound City; Amy C. Tuley, Eldon; Jo Wheeler Central; Blaine John Northeast; Carsten James Mlady, Cassie Wyllie, Silver Sage Ann Tummons, Gallatin R-V; Jamie Bortner, Republican Valley; Susan Bloomfield; Travis J. Mlady, Underwood, Pleasant Hope; Jennifer Braunsroth, Milford; Timothy Bloomfield; Curtis Molt, Albion; Britt New Hampshire: Timothy E. Morrill, Valentine, Putnam County; Brian Brovont, Lyons-Decatur Northeast; Moser, Palmyra; Larry Joseph Moser, Winnisquam; Melanie Sanborn, Vance, Centralia; Jerod VanGenderen, Amanda Bulling, Waverly; Jesse Randolph; Brent Nelms, Dundy Seacoast School of Technology Princeton; Rachel Viox, Ste. Burbach, Randolph; Monica Daake, County; Andrea Michele Nelson, New Jersey: Michael N. Brooks, Genevieve; Clayton J. Vogl, Slater; Centennial; Jacob Lee Deines, Creighton; Ciji Nelson, Sutton; Carrie Woodstown; Christopher P. Nnadi, Bret Voskamp, Mount Vernon; Justin Ravenna; Jeremiah Scott Deines, Nuss, Sutton; Josh O’Brien, Newman Penns Grove Wallace, Lex La Ray; Tammy Wallace, Ravenna; Michelle M. Demerath, Grove; Josh R. Oltmans, Licking; Jennifer Watts, East Newton; Plainview; Sarah Demmel, Grant; Lawrence/Nelson; Cody Osten, New Mexico: Amanda LaRae Bridge, Aaron Whelan, Monroe City; Cristy Mason L. Dendinger, Hartington; Lakeview; Tasha Osten, Lakeview; Tularosa; Marianna Brown, San Jon; White, Sarcoxie; Hannah I. White, Holly Dickinson, Seward; Thomas E. Eric Peeks, Centennial; Stacy Jo Peitz, Melissa Campbell, Dexter; Kendra Crest Ridge; Jennifer Williams, Donahue, Raymond Central; Brent Hartington; Kylie Michelle Peters, Beth Encinias, Belen; Dal Frost, Chillicothe; Michael John Willis, Driewer, Heartland; Craig Ebel, Central City; Tyler Peters, Hampton; Corona; Kolbyn S. Joy, Artesia; Kristy North Callaway; Michael Keith Wisner-Pilger; Jill Marie Eisenhauer, Andra R. Petersen, Loup County; Kelley, Artesia; Frank Krentz, Animas; Wilson, Bloomfield; Adam Wolf, Bloomfield; Evan B. Engelman, Diller- William LeRoy Peterson, York; Sara Kuykendall, Mesa Vista; Adriana

33 American FFA Degree

Leyvas, NMSU Collegiate FFA; Richlands; Josh Watson, Surry Ashley Auld, Mt. Gilead; Holly Bader, Western Brown; Aaron Hines, Micah Lea Purcella, Goddard; Central; Jeremy Wicker, Eastern Bloom Carroll; Matt Barman, Fort Western Brown; Kevin Hogue, Tri- Quentin Paul Ray, Grady; Aaron Randolph; Sharon Williams, Eastern Recovery; Erica Barrett, Wilmington; Valley; Joel Hulse, Teays Valley; Jason Stevens, Portales; Johnathon Walsh, Randolph; Jason Wright, Eastern Nicole Marie Bates, Buckeye Trail; S. Hupman, Greenville; Kelli Hutton, Moriarty; Denise Rae Whitener, Randolph; Lendy Grayce Yeaman, Charles Bauer, Buckeye; Justin David Liberty Union; Christina Renee Texico Bartlett Yancey Bauer, River Valley; Angie Baumer, Jackson, Indian Lake; Matt Jackson, Minster; James L. Beatty, River View; Tri-Valley; Aaron Jordan, River New York: Carolyn Barkley, Tri- North Dakota: Casey M. Ackerman, Amy Beeler, Talawanda; Carrie Belles, Valley; Bryon Karcher, Mohawk; Valley; Jason Hnatko, Greenville Wahpeton; Ken L. Anderson, Wilmington; Mark Bensman, Minster; Jamie Leigh Keller, Shelby; Joshua J. Central; Patrick Kelly, Lowville; Kindred; Christine M. Behm, Des Nathan M. Bernath, Archbold; Corey Kellermeier, Otsego; Chris Kick, West Kristen Keryk, Medina; Kurt Lawton, Lacs/Burlington; Rodney J. Bischof Jr., L. Best, Hardin-Northern; Keith Holmes; Brian Kienzle, Chief Logan; Schoharie Valley; J. D. Logan, Lisbon; Heidi Jo Brandt, New Salem; Beverage, Shelby; Christy Black, Tiffany Lea Kinney, Crestview- Lowville; Stephen W. Newman, Chasity Brobst, Medina; Melissa Kenton; David Blankenship, Frontier; Ashland; Ashley N. Klingel, River Greenville; Lisa Ann Polewczak, Brossart, Rugby; Brandon Burbidge, Karen K. Blankenship, Lynchburg- Valley; Dan T. Klosterman, Schuylerville; Victor Rodriguez, John Mohall; Benjamin E. Busch, Clay; Jason Bockey, Delphos; Kisha Wapakoneta; Dustin Knapke, Bowne; Amanda Tabolt, Lowville; Wyndmere; TahNee H. Cale, Bodey, Monroeville; Carla Boggs, Mt. Parkway; Richard Edward Kohler, Kate Walker, Falconer; Holly M. Gackle/Streeter; Brandon Due, Gilead; Derek Brake, Marysville; Lancaster; Alexis Kuhlwein, Teays Wahpeton; Bret Enderson, Wahpeton; Tyrone Brannon, Buckeye CC; Robert Valley; Mandy Lacy, Tri-Valley; Luke Eric Lars Enerson, Stanley; Justin W. Brokaw, Morgan; Amanda Brooks, Larrabee, Kenton; Joshua Nicholas Erickson, Wahpeton; Ryan Fenske, Georgetown; Jody Lynn Brooks, Larsen, Racine Southern; Jacqueline Wahpeton; James Foertsch, Alexander; Nick Bruns, Fort Lautanen, Pymatuning Valley; Cara R. Wyndmere; Amanda Friestad, Rugby; Recovery; Andrea Burks, Elmwood; Lawson, Ripley-Union-Lewis- Dustin Frounfelter, Granville; Brandy Burns, Fairbanks; Adam Lee Huntington; Stephanie R. Layman, Stephanie Glasow, Kindred; Justin Burris, Buckeye Trail; Heather L. Georgetown; Matt LeFever, Triway; Hagel, Napoleon; Noah Hall, Butler, Lynchburg-Clay; Lindsey Jeremy Lewis, Lynchburg-Clay; Kirk Berthold; Tyann Hauso, Rhame; Calhoun, Ross; Victoria Call, Madison Link, Fort Recovery; Mike Linscott, Dustin Heitkamp, Wyndmere; Chris Plains; Beth Marie Clawson, Shelby; Federal Hocking; Brittany Logsdon, Henderson, Wahpeton; Becky Hoffart, Adam Cole, Wilmington; Seth A. Talawanda-Butler Tech; Ben Rugby; Kimberly Clara Hofmann, Coles, Edon-Northwest; Adam Cook, Luthman, Anna; Heather M. Medina; Dustin N. Holtan, Turtle Clyde; Ashley Cook, Madison Plains; Makarius, Amanda Clearcreek; Lake/Mercer; Nathan Horner, Elizabeth A. Cook, Georgetown; Chris Jennifer L. Mantey, River Valley; Napoleon; Brett Jacobson, Watford Corney, Colonel Crawford; Jay Crum, Amanda Rene’ Martin, Waterford; City; Casey John Johnson, Watford Ohio Valley; Chelsea Daniel, Tolles Ryan McClure, Wayne Trace; Seth City; Sarah Antoinette Jorde, Towner; Technical Center; Eric Dapra, Teays McCoy, Hillsboro; Heather Renee Landon Kimball, Divide County; Valley; Sharon Armstrong Decker, McDade, Tri-Village; Dean McMahan, Alecia Kinn, Turtle Lake/Mercer; Norwayne; Megan Delph, Madison River Valley; Ashely Meggitt, Badger Kyle Koepplin, Elgin/New Plains; Amanda Kay Denes, Black Margaretta; Andrew W. Miller, Leipzig; Tyler Kostolecky, Scranton; River; Jason P. Dickey, Otsego; Adam Eastwood; Jason Richard Miller, Christopher Kubal, Carrington; Cody PHOTO BY WALES HUNTER M. Disbro, Edon-Northwest; Jacenda Lancaster; Jon Mills, East Knox; Leo Martin, Medina; Ryan Migler, Rugby; Joelle Dohme, Greenville; Jesse M. Mitchell, Marysville; Chasity Walters, Lowville; Lisa Yaple, Tri- Nathan Miller, Wyndmere; Cody Dotterer, Crestview-Ashland; Scott Montgomery, Upper Sandusky; Zak T. Valley Montgomery, Carrington; Dustin D. M. Dugan, East Knox; Derek Dunson, Morey, Centerburg; Nate Mosher, Moser, Medina; Richard Novotny, North Carolina: David Shawn Kenton; Elizabeth Eilerman, Fort Cardington; Marci Murphy, Wyndmere; Adam Palczewski, Barker, Bartlett Yancey; James Loramie; Kurt Ellerbrock, Kalida; Wilmington; Matthew B. Murphy, Scranton; Adam Pauly, Wahpeton; Bullock, West Columbus; Justin Jessica Lynn Elwood, Margaretta; Wilmington; Melanie Murphy, Gwen Lenore Payne, Elgin/New Caveness, Eastern Randolph; Jennifer Jennifer A. Engle, Elmwood; Chad Wilmington; Nick Murphy, Leipzig; Danette Rae Peterson, Des Lynn Champion, Harnett Central; Ryan Epley, Liberty Union; Alan Wilmington; Bennett Musselman, Lacs/Burlington; Thatcher Peterson, Dustin Daniel, Eastern Randolph; Esbenshade, Crestview-Ashland; Mark Madison Plains; Erin Napier, Lisbon; Justin Piatz, Napoleon; Joshua Troy Davenport, Plymouth; Wesley Evans, Spencerville; Tyler Lynchburg-Clay; Dana Noffsinger, Amanda Quam, Wyndmere; Jessie Holly Deal, South Rowan; Justin Ray Everett, Fairlawn; Thomas Evers, Wayne Trace; Heather R. Noll, Rieger, Richland 44; Elizabeth Lynn Gillispie, Clyde A. Erwin; Haley Ellen Coldwater; Kevin Fath, Northwestern- Sheridan; Dan Nolting, River Valley; Rood, Wahpeton; Trina Ruby, Des Hampton, Smoky Mountain; Lora Wayne; Nick Ferneding, Ross; Julie Carl T. Norden, Pettisville; Jason Lacs/Burlington; Riley Schaan, Rugby; Hampton, Eastern Randolph; Andrea Ann Fluharty, Morgan; Liza Folsom, Nuhfer, Shelby; Charles J. Ogle, Chief Cedrick Schlecht, Medina; Dustin Michelle Houston, Richlands; Samuel Madison Plains; Rachel Foltz, Fairfield Logan; Adam J. Olberding, Minster; Schultz, Lisbon; Kayla Schwab, Johnson, Surry Central; Braden Scott Union; Keith Matthew Ford, Licking Stephanie Overfield, North Union; Lisbon; Ryan Shively, Rugby; Taya Lantowsky, North Lenoir; John Valley; Jason Fox, Sentinel; Joshua Bryan Palmer, Mohawk; Brent M. Spelhaug, Kindred; Dustin James Michael Long, North Davidson; Justin Fraley, Fairbanks; Jeremy Fry, Palser, Greenville; Scott Perry, Stein, Napoleon; Jason B. Stone, Lowe, Eastern Randolph; James P. Ayersville; Mitch Fry, Mt. Gilead; Sentinel; Adam Peters, Teays Valley; Wahpeton; Kevin J. Teigen, Rugby; McAlister, Madison; Amanda Leigh Lindsay B. Garza, Delphos; Ryan A. Kristen Irena Pickworth, Keystone; Pat Teske, Scranton; Cameron Miller, Northwood; Josh Miller, South George, Arcadia; Steven Gerber, East Lacy Pinkerton, Centerburg; Sabrina Thornberg, Rugby; Amber Charlene Rowan; Preston Edward Murray, Clinton; Jeremy Gerwin, Eastwood; Kay Piper, Johnstown; Rob Pleiman, Ulberg, Des Lacs/Burlington; Ryan Currituck; Justin Robert Nifong, Kelly Ann Gerwin, Eastwood; Abbie Fort Loramie; Kevin G. Pletcher, Eugene Vojacek, Center; Jarret North Davidson; Timothy Joseph Gortner, Northwestern-Wayne; Emily Morgan; Brian Pohlman, Delphos; Wanek, Scranton; Travis Wayne Otey, Bartlett Yancey; Angie Marie Goubeaux, Versailles; Matt Matthew W. Pooch, Margaretta; Abby Weigum, Beulah; Jessica Wirrenga, Richardson, Eastern Randolph; Justin Griffith, Western Brown; Bobby Pound, Northridge; Tiffany Powell, South Heart; Jeremy Yates, Scranton; Richard Robbins, North Davidson; Grimm, Cardington; Rich Grisez, Fort Upper Scioto Valley; Priscilla Lynn Dustin Yoder, Rugby Scott Anthony Robison, Wake Forest- Recovery; Jason E. Hansel, Utica; Powers, Fairbanks; Andrew Pumphrey, Rolesville; Mary Lynn Sanderson, Ohio: Josh Adams, Bowling Green; Shane Hartzler, Norwayne; Craig Liberty Union; Nathan Rausch, North Lenoir; Christy Shue, Eastern Matthew Adams, Wayne Trace; Krista Harvey, Shelby; Adam Heil, Tri- Fairbanks; Chris Reinhard, Fort Randolph; Holly Michelle Smith, Albright, Western Reserve; Robert J. Valley; Elizabeth Herrington, Recovery; Matt Renner, Delphos; North Lenoir; Jill Smith, Eastern Alt, Liberty Union; Aaron Anderson, Carrollton; Trent Hershey, Emily Ruth Rhoades, Versailles; Stacie Randolph; Melissa Smith, Eastern Wellington; Carl Anderson, New Northwestern-Wayne; Monica Nicole Robbins, Miami Valley CTC; Donna Randolph; Adam Stirewalt, South Lexington; Nicholas Anderson, Triad; Hetterick, Western Brown; Nick High, Roberts, Wilmington; Kyle Roberts, Rowan; Barney Timothy Taylor Jr., Justin Armintrout, Miami Trace; Upper Scioto Valley; Jeremy Hill, Blanchester; Clint Warren Rodabaugh,

34 American FFA Degree

Harmon, Verden; Jamie Hendrickson, Ann Hale, Pine Eagle; Alicia Hasler, Adair; Jay W. Henricks III, Laverne; Phoenix; Gina Higley, Elgin; Jonathan Lacey Herbel, Thomas-Fay-Custer; Hjelmervik, Eagle Point; Laura Rose Rachel Lynn Hite, Glencoe; Lindsey Isaacson, Molalla; Laurel Anne Hix, Muskogee; Amanda Holba, Jackson, Canby; Jared Kinney, Eagle Billings; Julie Juh Ree Horton, Point; Brian Craig Kitamura, Ontario; Cement; Brady Howard, Mulhall- Angela D. LeFore, McLoughlin; Chad Orlando; Bailey Cade Howell, Leno, Sheridan; Jill M. McClaran, Checotah; Braxton Imke, Shattuck; Joseph; Krista Lynn McDowell, David Ryan Ivey, Haileyville; Julie Perrydale; Stephanie Murrell, Johnson, Purcell; Brian Kellogg, Willamina; Catherine Elizabeth Sentinel; Russell Kindred, Pond Owens, Baker; Jenny Roberts, Creek-Hunter; Brooke Kinslow, Ontario; Jeffrey Thomas Romans, Vale; Prague; Chad Klutts, Heavener; Tara F. Shirley, Joseph; Laura Belle Jennifer Kriz, Geronimo; Chad V. Stauffer, Elgin; Andrew Steinkamp, Ledbetter, Morris; Monty Lenington, Gervais; Norri Stevens, Silverton; Roland; Bradley Wade Magby, Shonda Titus, Union; Garrett Tschida, Coalgate; Mitch Mahieu, Cherokee; Ontario; Johnie Van Riper, Crater; Dustin Joe Mann, Haskell; Kelli Julie Vollmer, Sandy; Jennifer Walker, Mashburn, Lindsay; Derek Matz, Silverton; Chad Weaver, Knappa; Arapaho; Michelle McClung, Angela Yoder, Vale Laverne; Seth Mccool, Verden; Calvin Pennsylvania: Stacey Lynn Agnew, Earl McGee, Achille; Tony McGill, Conneaut Valley; David L Bittner, PHOTO BY ED ZURGA Broken Arrow; Kasey Ann Mead, Brothersvalley; Adam E Cole, Apple Hardin-Northern; Annette Rubeck, Ziegler, Bellevue; Stephanie Atoka; Richard Metscher, Covington- City; Adam Lee Coleman, North Union; Jason Rufenacht, Zimmerman, A. B. Graham; Ryan G. Douglas; Terra D. Miller, Arapaho; Brothersvalley; Ryan Donough, Pettisville; Steve Runion, Sentinel; Zukowski, Firelands Clay J. Mittasch, Morrison; Eric C. Manheim; Erin Dymond, Twin Valley; April Jane Ruppert, Wapakoneta; Money, Calera; Brian Morris, Oklahoma: Ashley Abernathy, Altus; Craig Felpel, Cloister; Lisa J. Fetscher, Nick Russell, Federal Hocking; Chad Chickasha; Jimmy Nealis, Cashion; Robert Charles Acre, Canton; Amy Philadelphia; Julie Flinchbaugh, Eric Ryder, Elmwood; Nathan Sailor, Rickey A. Nored II, Hugo; Bobby Lee Adair, Verden; Casey Adams, Hooker; Eastern; Mark R. Fulton, Big Spring; Fairlawn; Lori Sayre, Southern; Norton, Davenport; Krishanda O’Dell, Kelli Christine Armbruster, Katrina Getz, Twin Valley; Isaac Tiffany N. Schaupert, Genoa; Kyle T. Geary; Josh Parks, Timberlake; Cody Burlington; Jerrod Arthur, Chickasha; Robert Harrington, Albion; Matthew Schlatter, Paulding; Sarah Wayne Pearce, Quinton; Josey Johnathan Kelly Barnes, Webbers L. Hawbaker, Concocheague; Schmachtenberger, Minerva; Matt Nichole Pennington, Perry; Tanya Falls; Tessa Barnthouse, Blackwell; Nicholas Levi Heller, Apple City; Schmerge, Botkins; Alexandra Nichole Perkins, Harrah; Natasha Justin Barrington, Geronimo; Haley LeAnn Helman, Concocheague; Schuette, Evergreen; Corey Allen Lynne Potter, Merritt; Ryan Rayner, Berry, Texhoma; Colbie Beyer, Heather L. Hollenbach, West Snyder; Schwochow, Fremont-Ross; Kent J. Geary; J. Russell Reim, Billings; Bob Chattanooga; Ashley Bohl, Samuel Edward Huff, Wilmington Seaburn, Westfall; Benjamin Rock Rich, Prague; Ryan Ridling, Sentinel; Chattanooga; Laura Suzanne Bolay, Area; Ryan J. Irvin, Apple City; Seibert, Spencerville; Tami Shannon, Michael Wayne Riley, Haileyville; Perry; Brandon Bolt, Broken Bow; Jonathan Carl Lauver, Middleburg; Hillsboro; Chris Shaw, Blanchester; Josh Rochell, Empire; Katie Rose, Vanessa Bornheim, Haileyville; Timothy Lesher, Line Bob Sherman, Centerburg; Jeremy J. Durant; Lance D. Ryel, Weatherford; Matthew Levi Boston, Adair; Holly Mountain/Mahantango; Casey Sherman, Western Reserve; John Branden Sapp, Wellston; Brian Sapp, Boyd, Afton; Ashley Marie Brown, Livengood, Manheim; Amanda Diane Shively, Miami East; Scott Sibbersen, Wellston; Craig Schafer, Fairview; Afton; Chevie L. Brown, Cordell; Martin, Cedar Crest; Chad A. Eastwood; Heather Slaughterbeck, Justin Schenk, Chickasha; Kyle Tonya M. Brown, Tecumseh; John McConnell, Wilmington Area; Ashley River Valley; Dustin Smith, Schenk, Chickasha; Clayton Dale Robbie Bullis, Dover; Jeremy Burson, McGary, Wilmington Area; Andrew Mechanicsburg; Laneda Rose Smith, Smith, Colcord; Shelby Dewayne Stilwell; Brenna Burton, Bray-Doyle; McMullen, Twin Valley; Courtney L. Benjamin Logan; Samuel Abraham Smith, Prague; Tracy Renee Smith, Trey Dean Carlisle, Laverne; Carla Miller, Grassland; Melissa A. Moore, Smith, Centerburg; Linda Snyder, Guthrie; Jay Soulek, Blackwell; Jeff Church, Sentinel; Brian Collins, Wilmington Area; Nathaniel Moyer, Hillsdale; Shelli Snyder, Eastwood; Spake, Boise City; Tyler E. Sparks, Cherokee; Mindy Rose Conway, Cloister; Garrett R. Neff, Manor; Lisa Troy Stoller, Norwayne; Julie Marie Yale; Justin Stamps, Wagoner; Ronnie Perry; Jason Michael Couch, Quapaw; Lynn Orr, Twin Valley; Chris Rojahn, Stucke, Versailles; Brent Anthony Stamps, Chouteau; Cheyenne Wayne Shadley Joe Cowan, Wayne; Olen Cloister; Laura L. Sankey, Clearfield; Terrell, East Clinton; Tracie Thorp, Starns, Byng; Joelray Stringfellow, Creekmore, Olive; Kadi Cummins, Anthony W. Seymore, Bermudian; North Central; Christopher Turner, Calera; Adam Sullins, Billings; Clint Altus; Amy Dalmont, Indianola; Rebecca Shaffer, Somerset Area; Jason Fairfield Union; Adam Vance, MacTyson Taylor, Canton; Rachel Kristal D. Damron, Sayre; Sara Ann M Shirk, Cedar Crest; Duane A Hillsboro; Coby Vance, Hillsboro; Alicia Teel, Keota; Kevin Thomason, Damron, Sayre; Matt Day, Yale; Tyler Stoner, Manor; Janette Strohecker, Brian Vincent, Big Walnut; Kurt Perry; Derek Thralls, Billings; Jarred Dean, Maysville; Nick Delmedico, Line Mountain/Mahantango; Vipperman, River View; Benjamin Tyree, Alva; Chrisopher D. Vick, Fort Gibson; David Andrew Dixon, Shannon L. Tappen, Gifford Pinchot; Micheal Waggamon, Spencerville; Coyle; Luke Voth, Hooker; Tori Morris; Daniel E. Edmonds, Morris; Michael T. Telesz, Wilmington Area; Dan Wagner, Colonel Crawford; Jake Walker, Butler; Matthew Waswo, Garet Edwards, Fairview; Kerry Ellis, Geoffrey K. Vorisek, Linesville; Troy Walters, Ayersville; David A. Weaver, Cashion; Waco Daniel Webb, Haskell; Pryor; Brandon Blaine England, Sean Wenger, Manheim; Ronald S Hillsdale; Kelby Weaver, Upper Justin White, Canton; Justin L. Panola; Jason Ewing, Fairview; Brady White, Wilmington Area; Robert A. Sandusky; Mark Wensink, Bowling Whitmore, Coyle; Amber Wright, M. Fagg, Ponca City; Kristen Feerer, Wilson, Wilmington Area Green; Sarah Whitford, Mt. Vernon; Cushing Adam Wickensimer, Miami Trace; Fort Supply; Beth Fields, Wister; Isaac Puerto Rico: Roberto Perez Perez, Lisa Wickersham, River Valley; Zack Fisher, Chattanooga; James Tucker Oregon: Rachel Rae Blackburn, Vale; Leonides Morales; Moises Soto, Eladio Wiles, Norwayne; Amy Michelle Fleming, Laverne; Derek Frailey, Daniel Kent Bolen, Umatilla; Tirado Community; Neilly Rodriguez Wilson, Racine Southern; Ramsey Pryor; Jason Frantz, Balko; Drew Meaghan Campbell, Imbler; Ace Vera, Trina Padilla De Sanz Wilson, Symmes Valley; Hank Frech, Fairview; Sami Jo Frisby, Clark, Union; Mary Elizabeth Corn, Rhode Island: Brent McCullough, Wischmeyer, Triad; Pamela M. Wise, Vinita; Trey Gallaway, Mulhall- Ontario; Jennifer Nichole DeVries, Ponaganset Elmwood; Clint Wiseman, Symmes Orlando; Dustin Garrett, Geary; Carly Cascade; William P. Ebner, Silverton; Valley; Alexandra Woods, Wellington; Danyale Griffith, Adair; Tyler Jacob Walter Eichler, Perrydale; Elias South Carolina: Zachary Dyer, Indian Andrew Thomas Wright, Margaretta; Grissom, Prague; Colby Haggard, Elk Eiguren, Jordan Valley; Lauren Ann Land; Daniel R. Griffin, Central; Kyle James C. Wright, Licking Valley; Jason City; Tanner Hankins, Eldorado; Farmen, Lakeview; Jenny Freeborn, Patrick Hatcher, Crescent; Matthew A. Wuensch, New London; Andrew Megan Hannabass, Cache; Robyn Central; Brian Frey, Cascade; Amanda Lutton, Crescent; Jaime Marie Rivers,

35 American FFA Degree

McBee; Barbara Gwen Rogers, West- Rachael Lynn Klamer, Britt Morris, Gruver; Coy Nall, Oak Munford “Big Boll”; Grandview; Melissa Nickles, East James Knight, South Central; Marcus Nolan, Gilmer; South Dakota: Nicholas B. Abbas, Greene; Seth Krantz, Kaylie Noles, Denton Ryan; Jennifer Lennox Sundstrom; Sarah E. Arnold, Cheatham County; Norwood, Jourdanton; Lindsey Marie De Smet; Jessica M. Beal, Harrisburg; April Dawn LaFollette, Pardee, Shepherd; Bryan Pawelek, Aaron Gene Beisch, Webster; Steven Cocke County; Marcy Jourdanton; Robert Pennington, Thomas Bly, Garretson; Ryan L. Lance, Warren County; Calallen; Jamie Pigg, Valley; Josh Brunner, Newell; Steven Bucholz, Rebekah Lemley, East Powell, Jourdanton; Stephanie Harrisburg; Renee J. Burns, Robertson; Landon Radney, Channelview; Dugan Rainey, Harrisburg; Brian Butler, Waubay; Loveall, Portland; Justin Mindy Carroll, De Smet; Ramie Denton-Ryan; Justin Rankin, Lovelace, Jackson North Ralene Coughlin, De Smet; Mandy Jo Jourdanton; Tamara Rodriguez, John Side; Jared Major, Foster Dulles; Chris Ruscher, Nimitz; Erichsen, West Central; Revel Sandrel Lebanon; Joseph Allen Fink, Harrisburg; Chad Ford, Sioux Paul Salge, Mathis; Jonathan Shockey, Bryant Mathias, South Northwest; Brett Slomchinski, Valley-Volga; James Edward Haas, Fulton; Beth May, Harrisburg; Derick D. Hofer, Willow Pleasanton; Will Smelley, Hallsville; White House; Leanna Shannon Marie Smith, Mabank; Lake; William Daniel Huston, Sturgis; June McAlister, Lincoln Jared Knock, Willow Lake; Angela Jonathan Stubblefield, A & M County; Jason Miller, Consolidated; Coleen Sturgell, Emma Kopriva, Clark; Mary Kurtz, White County; Ryan Elkton; Jesse Larson, De Smet; Melissa Denton-Ryan; Tosca Tate, Henrietta; Edward Moore, Jackson Riley Tatum, Snyder; Brandy Tuck, Maag, Florence; Marsha Meyer, West North Side; Josh Central; Crystal Nielson, Woonsocket; Columbus; Aaron Tudyk, East Morgan, White House; PHOTO BY ED ZURGA Central; Amy Vance, Winnsboro; Kelly Jo O’Donnell, Lemmon; Tony Ashley L. Morris, South Peckenpaugh, De Smet; Chris Plamp, Shepherd; Tamra Crum, Mayde Creek; Jared Walker, Humble; Russell Wall, Fulton; Brandon Morris, Portland; Jennifer Nicole Crump, Hardin; Snyder; Julie Weathers, Lubbock- Mitchell; Justin Ploof, Florence; Sarah Jane Myracle, Riverside; Jessica Clinton Powell, Chamberlain; Darin Blakely Davis, Tilden; Cassi Lynette Cooper; Kristie Weller, Seguin; Pearson, East Robertson; John Davis, Galena Park; Hannah Dawson, Rebecca Wendt, Iola; William West, Rislov, Florence; Matt Rogers, Miller; Michael Poss, White House; Ronald Kelly Jane Sanderson, Lake Preston; Simms; James M. Decker, Stamford; Cotulla; Mindy Weth, Kempner; Amy Alexander Proctor, Munford “Big Jason Demel, Schulenburg; Chris Layne Wied, Round Top-Carmine; Ashley Schaack, Florence; Greta Lynn Boll”; David Pruett, Loretto; Crystal Schanning, Clear Lake; Jennifer Laura Denny, Lancaster; Andrew Derington, Lacey Williams, Tomball; Teri Leann Quinn, Riverside; Brian Reed, Florence; Saxon Dittert, Schulenburg; Windham, Baird; Laura Winsauer, Schock, McCook Central; Casey Loretto; Travis Roberson, Dyer Schwinger, Florence; Jessica Smit, Tammy Ettredge, Pilot Point; Christi Calallen; Travis York, Chapel Hill County; Patrick Thomas Robinson, Evans, Pilot Point; Johnna Ferris, Northeast Lennox Sundstrom; Duane Snaza, Warren County; Jill Rogers, Webster; Sarah Stratmeyer, Lennox Snyder; Tony Franklin, Tilden; Lexington; Clint Ross, Dyer County; Stephanie Lynea Franzen, Palacios; Utah: Melonie A. Adams, Delta; Sundstrom; Jamie Swan, Newell; Clint Sanders, Lexington; Robert W. Luke Andersen, Bear River; Bro Mitchell Swanson, Chamberlain; Austin Fullingim, Petersburg; Chris Sands, Richland; Joseph Schultz, Gilbreath, Winnsboro; Garrett Anderson, Emery; Jace Robert Wayne Walters, Wagner; Lavyne L. Dyersburg; Mark Alton Scott, Anderson, Lone Peak; Mandy Kay Wieting, Milbank; Joshua James Gilliam, Quanah; Tiffany Angeline Munford “Big Boll”; Matt Lee Scott, Green, Cleveland; Richard Hahn, Anderson, Lone Peak; Nicole Wooledge, Sturgis; Andrea Zirbel, Munford “Big Boll”; Daniel Chance Anderson, Spanish Fork; Landon Florence Tilden; Meghan Hancock, Cotulla; Simmons, Westmoreland; Guy Spence, Ryan Scott Hanel, Cameron Yoe; Seth Andrews, Payson; Maria Beck, Lone Tennessee: Melissa Bailey, Jackson Crockett County; Michael Stanford, Hansen, Troy; Jason Harris, Tilden; Peak; Corey Ann Blonquist, North North Side; Nathan Curtis Barnes, Lexington; Willie Clifford Taylor, Leslie Sue Harris, John Foster Dulles; Summit; Wade Briggs, Manila; Dewey Warren County; Graham Wayne Warren County; James Travis Lance Hausenfluck, Bryan; John Christensen, Payson; Christopher Bates, Peabody; David Beaird, Thaxton, Warren County; Valerie Hilliard, Academy; Benita F. Hodge, Clark, Morgan; Tiffany Clegg, North Crockett County; Will Bird, Halls; Tillman, Crockett County; Adam A & M Consolidated; Heidi Hoffman- Summit; Resha Rae Cook, Uintah; Kimberly Denise Bradley, Gallatin True, East Robertson; Ashlea Sorrell Bryan, Charlotte; Lindy Holub, James Tana Cota, Fremont; Garrett W. High School; Davida Briggs, Richland; Turner, Dyersburg; Holli Denise E. Taylor; Amy Hughes, Franklin; Ross Davis, Fremont; Jacqueline Ann Melissa Burniston, Johnson County; Turner, Covington; Russ Underwood, Jackson, Henrietta; Jaci Jaggers, Downing, Lone Peak; Cody Ellertson, Sara Campbell, Anderson County; Richland; Chris Vessell, Lincoln Sulphur Bluff; Amy Janicek, Sealy; Fremont; Brian Garn, Bear River; Breeanna Kay Carroll, Anderson County; Ryan Louis Walker, Warren Stephanie Jeter, Troy; Justinn Jones, Mark E. Gibson, Fremont; Jessica County; Cal Clark, Richland; Hannah County; Clint Walton, Covington; Mary Carroll; Roger Jones, Gilmer; Giles, Pleasant Grove; Wendy Gittins, Kay Collier, White County; Blake Wolaver, Richland; Will Wright, Colby Allen Kelch, Humble; Jessica Sky View; Michael Graff, American Johnathon Craig Conner, Warren Halls Kempen, Somerset; Jordan Kiker, East Fork; Dani Hart, Weber; Jordan County; Cody Craig, Paris; Summer Texas: Caren C. Adams, Chambers; James Kimmey, Ross S. Hasler, Lone Peak; Amber Herzog, Davis, Lebanon; Lindsey Donoho, Stephenville; Damian Shea Adams, Sterling; Cody Kosub, East Central; Lehi; Bronco Hunter, Payson; Cali Dresden; Michael Dunavant, Corsicana; Gary (Michael) Adams, Kristal Kunkel, Grandview; Katherine Jacklin, Lehi; Jeffery Kody Jacobs, Richland; Michael Yarnell Foster, Bowie-Austin; Krystal Amason, Lindsey Kurtz, Palacios; Catherine Lone Peak; Amanda Sutherland Clinton; Josh Foust, Anderson Tilden; Roger Coy Baldwin, Leon; Lawless, Big Sandy; Hugh Anthony Jarrett, Mt. Nebo; Darwin Lynn County; KaSondra Francis, Woodbury; Natalie Batla, Columbus; Tara Leland, Lovelady; Bradley Lindsey, Jensen, Lone Peak; Andrew Colt Jada Fuqua, East Robertson; Chad Bennett, Mayde Creek; Matthew Covington; Josh Little, Gilmer; Johnson, Lone Peak; Daniel Levi Henry Gilbert, South Fulton; T. C. Allen Berger, Weimar; Rebecca Austin Lowder, South Garland; Johnson, Lone Peak; Jarod Jones, Lone Groves, East Robertson; Andrew Hale, Bickley, Mansfield; Laura Bolduc, Matthew Luensmann, East Central; Peak; Colton Judd, Payson; Jenna Sevierian; Carrie Elizabeth Harris, Jersey Village; Shalley Boles, Reagan L. Machac, Waller; Shayne Keyes, North Summit; Amanda Campbell County; Leah Renee Breckenridge; Brian Brenek, Markwardt, Round Top-Carmine; LeFevre, Uintah; Clinton Keith Little, Hatfield, Moore County; Joe Hewitt, Academy; Brad Britten, White Deer; Bradley Martin, East Central; Randi Lone Peak; Kim Lovell, Delta; Richland; Payton Taylor Hewitt, Cody Burns, Crowley; Greg Busby, Lauren McBroom, Prairie Valley; Kaci Marshall Mackay, Lehi; Colin B. Richland; Michael Holley, Richland; Winnsboro; Laura K. Caldwell, McClinton, Aledo; Jeremy Todd Marshall, Grantsville; Bryant Logan Daniel Holmes, Jackson North Hawkins; Allison Chipman, James E. McFerrin, Cotton Center; Misty McMullin, Emery; Dmitri Jason Side; Adam Hopkins, Seymour High Taylor; Megan Ann Claborn, Chico; McGinnis, Harmony; Kenan Millard, Lone Peak; Dusty Layne School; Wesley Hunt, Moore County; Rebekha L. Collins, Lampasas; Kasey McGuffey, Garland; Alex McIntosh, Miller, Lehi; Katie Nelson, Sky View; Angie Diane Hutchens, Anderson Ann Crawford, Rivercrest; Amber James E. Taylor; Meredith McLeroy, Leslie Oberg, Payson; James M. County; George Earin Jones, Crider, Tilden; Leslie Cronin, Commerce; Andrew Wade Miller, Parker, Fremont; Robert Petersen, Eagleville; Adam Keen, Portland; Hartley; Charles Mock, East Central; Bear River; Kenneth Pinette, Lone

36 American FFA Degree

Peak; Joshua John Provost, Wasatch; Grandview; Tyler Greenwalt, Liberty; Granton; Julie Eibergen, Granton; Simonson, Cashton; Terri Sorg, Sauk David Robbins, Payson; JaLyne Samantha D. Haskins, Rochester; Paul B. Eness, Brookwood; Brooke N. Prairie; Justin Charles Staubli, Robinson, Richfield; Stanley M. Rose, Ricardo Ibarra, Enumclaw; Kayla Erdman, Augusta; Adam M. Erickson, Cambridge; Stephen William Manila; Clifford C. Russell, Kennedy, Ritzville; Kyle Kingman, Neillsville; Tyler Erickson, Neillsville; Steinhoff, Cuba City; Ryan Sterry, Grantsville; Sherrie Lynn Savage, Mary M. Knight; Charles Andre Melissa Fabry, Oconto Falls; Amanda Osseo-Fairchild; Adam Robert Richfield; Tanya Selman, Bear River; Lyvere, Toledo; Casey McDonald, Beth Febock, Cambrdige; David H. Stiemke, DeForest; Helen Stubrud, Clark Sessions, Morgan; Paul Smart, Evergreen; Michael Mensonides, Yelm; Ferguson, Waupaca; Brian Fischer, Black River Falls; Brenda Sue Wasatch; Ty Smith, Manila; Sarah Michelle Moore, Winlock; Elizabeth Rio; Kevin Fischer, Rio; Sara Fischer, Thimmig, Sheboygan Falls; Bryon Staheli, Woods Cross; Rena Steed, Marie Neal, Arlington; Marcus J. Orr, Plymouth; Kyle Fitzsimmons, Mineral Traaseth, New Auburn; Dawn Fremont; Stevie Anne Stewart, North Eastmont; Kasandra Ann Parrish, Point; Ryan Franz, Rio; Nicole Geier, Michelle Traynor, Plum City; Ross L. Sanpete; Randy Udy, Sky View; Laura Ritzville; Theresa Ann Paul, Colton Cashton; Laurie A. Gerbers, Gillett; Trentadue, Lake Mills; Judy Turpin, Ure, South Summit; Kyle Wade, Wildcat; Jessica Charlene Pittmann, Katie Theresa Gerlach, Marshfield; Hillsboro; Francis Ubersox, Fremont; Tamra Watson, North Rosalia; Evan Pollock, Mountain Matthew Lee Goers, Gresham; Shane Shullsburg; Bruce Vine, Granton; Sanpete; Jade Willis, Pleasant Grove; View; Jim Redinger, Colton; Aubrey D. Haberman, Lake Mills; Jamie Jamie Vine, Granton; Derek Waldera, Andrea Yorgason, Lone Peak Anastasia Reeves, Eastmont; Jeremy Hagenow, Brillion; Melissa Hahn, Independence; Philip Waldera, Richerson, Chelan; Kyle Rogers, DeForest; Josh Hart, Lincoln A. C. H. Independence; Joanna I. Waldron, Virginia: Travis Akers, Carroll Rochester; Nathaniel David Smeltzer, M.; Keith Wesley Heidt, Randolph- Waterford; Daniel E. Wegmueller, County; Matthew Arey, Fort Wenatchee; Lee R. Spencer, Yelm; Cambria-Friesland; Ronald Monroe; Ryan John Weinberger, Defiance; Adam Bowman, Spotswood; Tony B. Stulken, Kettle Falls; Shelby Henningfeld, East Troy; Katie Randolph-Cambria-Friesland; Becky Jason Bowman, Stonewall Jackson; Talley, Ritzville; Seth Thomas, White Herricks, Oshkosh North; Jeffrey Wellnitz, Brodhead; David Westphal, Mark Daniel Brill, Central; Caleb River; Shannon Van Ausdle, Colton; Heuer, Bangor; Mitchell A. Hiley, Mayville; Shane Westphal, Big Foot; Daniel Bryan, Buckingham Senior; Angela Veldhuizen, Enumclaw; Joel Randolph-Cambria-Friesland; Ashley Williams, Brodhead; Jenalee Jared Allan Burner, Luray; Lindsey Whitman, Pullman; Marissa Irene Jonathon Hill, Unity; Jeffery E. Winkler, Gillett; Travis Edward Wolf, Cline, Fort Defiance; Brandon Coffey, Wilkie, Medical Lake; Andrea Hodge, Janesville Craig; Abby Spencer; Kayla Woolever, Bloomer; Central; Jonathan Wesley Coleman, Kathleen Young, Colfax Huibregtse, Plymouth; Jeremy Hunt, John J. Woychik, Independence; Riverheads; Abbi E. Copp, Central; Wittenberg-Birnamwood; Carrie Kaye David A. Zietlow, Berlin; Bill Zillmer, Beth Craddock, Chatham; West Virginia: Charles Joseph Jacobs, Waterford; Barbara Elizabeth Unity Christopher Craddock, Chatham; Bennett, Ripley; Kala Brooke Cox, Jarek, Bonduel; Craig L. Jentz, Christian Dall’Aqua, James Wood; Roane County; Hillary Marie Dean, Wyoming: Kristina D. Barkhurst, Fennimore; Jerimiah Johnson, John Garfield Dillard, Amelia Senior; Preston County; Tim Everson, Stewart McPhail; Zach Bennett, Weyauwega-Fremont; Robert Johnson, Amy Elisabeth Dove, Fort Defiance; Mussleman; Ricky Denton Fields, Wheatland; Stacia Christine Berry, Lincoln A. C. H. M.; Elizabeth Jones, Pamela Lynn Edwards, Carroll Ripley; Adam Hall, Ripley; Annie Cheyenne; Samantha Bischoff, Devils Black River Falls; Justin Carl Katsma, County; Erika Nicole Fifer, Buffalo Hall, Tyler; Olivia Jean Hanson, Randolph-Cambria-Friesland; Gap; Broderick Stuart Wayne Havens, Greenbrier East; Brandi Nicole Hays, Kimberly K. Kersten, Marshall; Craig Pulaski County; Jonathan R. Roane County; Nathaniel Hoskinson, A. Kohn, Bonduel; Scott H. Kok, Heishman, Stonewall Jackson; Doddridge County; Nona Kay Hunt, Randolph-Cambria-Friesland; Tom Christopher Jordan Houff, Fort Roane County; Amanda L. Jones, Kramer, Weauwega-Fremont; Steven Defiance; Jessica Mae Jones, Nelson Hedgesville; Andy Judge, Tyler; Jessica Kubisiak, Amherst; Craig Kuehn, Senior; Scott Lam, Buffalo Gap; Kay, Ripley; Lucas Mason, Granton; Sam LaGesse, Bloomer; Jordan Liskey, Turner Ashby; Thomas Hedgesville; Matthew McVey, Wirt Beth Joleen Laufenberg, Lincoln A. C. Abram McConnell, Holston; Jason B. County; George Miller II, Hedgesville; H. M.; Jason Leonard, Thorp; Amanda Miller, Stonewall Jackson; Matthew Rebecka Lyn Radabaugh, Taylor L. Levzow, Pardeeville; Karen Lobeck, Stephen Moore, Sherando; Travis County; Isaiah John Smith, Pendleton Albany; Jonathan Macheel, Randolph Wayne Moyers, Fort Defiance; Lila County; Amber Somerville, Wirt Cambria-Friesland; Darin Maliszewski, Joanna Orrock, Courtland; John County; Joseph Stuckey, Hedgesville; Independence; Ryan McKenzie, Unity; Michael Patterson, Fort Defiance; David Charles Sweeney, St. Marys; Michelle M. Meier, Lodi; Jason Miller, Allen Rawley, Buffalo Gap; Derek Nathan E. Taylor, Ravenswood Waupaca; Justin D. Monson, Braden Ritenour, Central; Amanda Wisconsin: Aaron A. Abraham, Brodhead; Willard R. Morris, Lake Michele Rorrer, Pulaski County; Erik Black Hawk; Brian Howard Ace, Mills; Jay M. Nelson, Prairie Farm; Saufley, Fort Defiance; Laura C. Oregon; Stacey Marie Adams, Badger; Kellen Nelson, Osseo-Fairchild; Todd Shoemaker, Wilson Memorial; Samuel Allen, Amherst; Emily Arndt, Oellerich, Mineral Point; Katherine Jennifer Showalter, Rockbridge Janesville Craig; Michelle L. Olejnichak, Gilman; James Pagel, County; Wendy Lee Slusher, Fort Backhaus, Mayville; Kimberly Ann Oconto Falls; Eric Pfeifer, Unity; Defiance; Joshua Stevenson, Bark, River Ridge; Andy Barta, Brian Preder, Weyauwega-Fremont; Dinwiddie; Zachary M. Stiles, James Algoma; Ryan Richard Becker, Cody Mark Quam, Lodi; Hannah Wood; Emily Martin Stitsinger, Montello; Eric Berger, Loyal; Amanda Raatz, Clayton; Eric Joseph Rand,

Galax; Megan Lynn Switzer, Turner PHOTO BY SAM HARREL Beyer, Waupaca High School; Jaclyn Weyauwega-Fremont; Dawn Ashby; Charles Thiemann, Louisa A. Blackburn, East Troy; Erik Blaser, Redington, Hillsboro; Amber Lee County; Andy Wakeman, Central; Tower; Brandi L. Burry, Pine Bluffs; Oconto Falls; Jennifer Ruth Blazek, Rhode, Gillett; Brian Rieth, Oconto Jeremy Will, Turner Ashby; Tina Brian Cox, Burns Chapter; Cole Bangor; Steve Boe, Blair-Taylor; Falls; Heather Lee Rollert, Marshall; Wilson, Buffalo Gap Coxbil, Southeast Goshen; Stefanie Garritt Boettcher, Osseo-Fairchild; Misty Rood, Bloomer; Brandi Jo Ruf, Crozier, Whitcomb; Andrea Lee Washington: Alex Amundsen, Paul Andrew Boettcher, Bonduel; Darlington; Andrea S. Rygh, Black Driskill, Devils Tower; Pamela Jean Toledo; Erin Amundsen, Toledo; Michelle Bork, Arcadia; Christa Ann Hawk; Gwen Schank, Independence; Eberhart, Snowy Range; Joshua D. Sarah Bell-Foster, Zillah; Stephanie Borzick, Montello; Emily Buss, Samantha Schindler, Bloomer; Flitner, Lyman; Travis Freeburg, Pine Renee Benzel, Ritzville; Evan Michael Arcadia; Joe Christensen, Unity; Matthew Jay Schleusner, Barron; Bluffs; David Garrelts, Southeast Bromiley, Eastmont; Kyle Chaplin, Melissa Louise Copas, Tri-County; Arica Schlough, Boyceville; Kendal Goshen; Bryan Gillies, Lyman; Cole Mary M. Knight; La Rena Ann Mike G. Costello, Unity; Bryan Dahl, A. Schmidt, Loyal; Travis Lee Schmit, Helm, Star Valley; James W. Hendry, Claassen, Colfax; Jessie Clarke, North Granton; Cassandra Dahl, Unity; Randolph-Cambria-Friesland; Heather Shoshoni; Brenda Jean Herbst, Thurston; Jake Cunningham, Omak; Ashley DeBauch, Bonduel; Angela K. Schmitz, Green Bay-Southwest; Laurie Shoshoni; Emily Horton, Shoshoni; Aaron Joseph DeHaan, Lynden; Dickson, Rio; Megan Diehl, Sauk Lee Schneider, Bonduel; Kimberley Deena Iorg, Jim Bridger; Toby Lynde, Kristin Nicole Ervin, Yelm; Leslie A. Prairie; Peggy Dierickx, Monticello; Schnell, Brillion; Ryan Schultz, Gillette; Laura McCormick, Glendo; Fisher, Heritage; Will Fleshman, Laura Anne Dietsche, Bloomer; Denmark; Kurt D. Schwendimann, Scott McDonald, Riverton; Zach Othello Pioneers; Andrew Gates, Daniel J. Drone, River Ridge; Joshua Hartford; Kyle A. Scott, Waterford; Paxton, Paintrock; Alicia Randall, North Thurston; Samantha M. Graf, Duley, Merrill; Candy Eibergen, Cindy Selner, Kewaunee; Ryan Pine Bluffs; Cassie Michele Scott, 37 Retiring Address

I love the end of the day. I come unwillingness to home from a long day, change into understand others’ my favorite pair of shorts or sweat- backgrounds, cultures pants, sit down with my guitar and and perspectives. just strum and think. Perhaps you’ve wit- What did I do today? Where did I nessed this. Perhaps go? Did I do anything productive? you didn’t do any- How was my day at school? How thing. Perhaps it was was work? What will tomorrow look none of your business. like? What am I doing this weekend? Perhaps you would Do people like me? Am I cool? have taken action if it Where am I going with my life? was “part of your world.” These same thoughts have run Tim Hammerich through my head many times before. National FFA President PHOTO BY SAM HARREL Part of my world General Session Ten was my high school. Elsie Allen solemn first period teacher. Mr. High School sat in the less Blake quieted the class and I knew OUR World fortunate part of Santa Rosa on the something horrible must have southeast side. When I was in happened by the tears streaming These are all very common school, the campus sat in the down his face. He forced out the thoughts that fill my head as I sit middle of old, underdeveloped words as he sobbed, “We lost picking and thinking in my own lit- roads with no sidewalks. If you had someone yesterday…” Who? I tle world. Then someone will call or to walk to school, you did so in a looked around the class desperately enter the room or I will get a ditch or in someone else’s field. trying to make sure it wasn’t a thought that will cause me to put Fortunately, I was not in the classmate. He continued, “A senior, down my guitar and leave my little position that I had to walk to school. one of my students.” I began listing world for something else. But a young man in the class ahead off the seniors I knew in my head, But do I ever REALLY leave my of me, Patrick Scott, was. Patrick not able to wait for him to world? I mean, with my mind con- lived off of Wright Road, nearly five continue. “Patrick Scott was his stantly set on what I’m doing, miles from campus. I passed him name. Some of you may have where I’m going, how wonderful or many times as he walked or rode his known him. He was struck by a van horrible I am and what I want, I bike every day. as he was walking home from pretty much manage to stay in MY I had met Patrick once. When we school last night.” WORLD for most of my day. were both younger, he bought some That’s when it hit me. I saw in What about OUR world? We sheep from my dad. However, that my head the times I had passed him don’t think about that one too seemed like a long time ago–I was riding his bike or walking down the often. It’s the whole rest of the now a junior and he was a senior. road with his friends. I remembered world that’s filled with people in So I didn’t bother approaching him him coming to my house when we need who are searching for a friend to see if he remembered me. I were younger. I remember wanting or some help. A world that’s bigger noticed he didn’t hang out with to talk to him. I remembered than you, your family, your friends, very many people, just a couple of wondering if he remembered me. your school. This world is in need of close friends. I thought nothing of Now I would never find out. people willing to not only stick up it, assuming he wanted it that way. The next night, there was a for themselves, but stick up for a Winter came, and while we don’t meeting to talk about the cause. The only people who make a get snow in Santa Rosa, we get our dangerous situation of the roads difference in OUR world are those fair share of rain. Like most other leading to and from school. The who can recognize, embrace and winters, the rains came, the ditches meeting was filled with blaming, relish the differences that so often filled and the fields turned to mud. name calling, accusations and divide us. I went about my routine, stuck in frustrations. Then one man stood What divisions? one may ask. MY world, not noticing the up at the microphone. He said, Something tells me you may have individuals walking in mud or on “I’ve got an unlimited supply of even experienced them yourself. the road as I passed them in my pallets and permission to make a Exclusion, cliques and gossip in our truck on the way to and from walkway through the fields leading schools; misunderstanding, anger school. up to the school. Once this and hatred in our communities; and One day I came to school to a meeting is done, I don’t care who

38 you are, if you’d like to help out Close, Samantha Harmon and world. What type of people are you you’re welcome to. We’ll be out Franky Miller. excluding? I didn’t do my job in there all night.” I saw the power of FFA at work making sure Patrick Scott felt Thanks to that man’s actions, many times this year. One in included in Elsie Allen FFA. I am the problem was fixed before any- particular was when I was teaching saddened and disappointed every one else could be harmed. But what a team-building workshop. I led a time I see cliques form in chapters wasn’t fixed was my guilt for not group through a series of team and opportunities taken from those reaching out to Patrick. We had challenges. who feel excluded. plenty of similarities. Both interest- After the activities were over, I If this is the case, then what does ed in ag class, we were about the noticed that one of the girls, the process of acceptance look like? same age, students at the same Mindy, was hanging back from the What does it feel like? It can be as school. But because of the differ- rest of the group. I asked her what simple as you walking with your ences in where we lived, our back- was up, and she looked at me with head up and saying “hi” to those ground and what grade we were in, I tears in her eyes. My first thought around you, whether they notice didn’t know Patrick very well—all was, “Oh no. Either I’ve hurt this you or not. Smiling, starting a con- because I was in MY world. girl’s feelings somehow or she’s versation just to let someone know Why do we so often think having trouble with the other team you value their companionship. It’s different has to mean separate? members. What am I going to do?” learning to speak a new language, Why can’t we avoid these divisions Just by acknowledging her, I exploring what other people and the horrific consequences that made her cry even harder, so I took believe, listening to “old people” come with them? her aside. Not being the most music, eating food you’ve never I happen to think it’s because comforting person in the world, I eaten, doing something nobody we’re all just unwilling—unwilling tried to help by patting her on the does, addressing the “unspoken to sacrifice our time, interests and back and giving her the old “There, issues” and making someone feel energy to invest it in people who there, it will be all right.” But she accepted even when you don’t nec- are unlike ourselves. I’m not just was full out crying now and it essarily agree with them. talking about people of a different wasn’t until she could catch her Find Patrick Scott. That person culture, but anyone outside of your breath that she told me what was who you’ve always known but family, your ring of friends, your going on. never REALLY talked to. Identify “clique,” your chapter, your “I’m sorry,” she said. “It’s just and acknowledge your similarities community, maybe even your state. that today was the first time…that and differences. Listen to what that Exploring our differences just I’ve ever been on a real team person has to say. Accept him or doesn’t seem worth it. If we waste before. I mean a team where I was her for who they are. our time investing in others outside one of them and good and they To be honest, I’m scared. I’m our comfort zone, our future careers liked me and stuff.” Wow! I spent scared to live in a world where might suffer, we may be in an the next several minutes talking to people aren’t willing to be different. awkward situation, we won’t have her and discovering this I’m scared to live in a world in enough time left for ourselves or we organization’s power of inclusion. which folks don’t understand each might have to do something we’re That day changed not just Mindy’s other and aren’t really all that not used to. life, but mine as well. interested in ever understanding All of these are valid concerns, Even with the amazing each other. I’m afraid to have but also good excuses. I strongly inclusionary power of the FFA people hate me because of my race, believe it is vital, first of all, for your backing us, we clearly still have religion, background or beliefs. I’m success, and secondly, for the barriers. We don’t talk to that terrified to live in a country where success of our nation and world, person because they don’t talk to millions of people co-exist together that we not only tolerate us. We haven’t met that person without talking, without helping, differences in people but embrace because they don’t eat lunch at the without loving. and explore them entirely. same table we do. We’ve never The words I say here on this FFA members, with nothing eaten dinner at her house because stage will most likely be forgotten. more than a listening ear, watchful her family speaks a different But if you—you sitting right there eye and caring heart, you can pick language or lives in a different part in that seat, in this arena at this out someone who is on the outside of town. We don’t invite him to the convention right now—if you and change their life forever. FFA meeting because he’s not an choose to start living in OUR world That is one of my favorite “aggie.” We don’t hang out with by embracing differences, listening aspects of this organization. It gave that group because they listen to to others and accepting everyone me and many others a place to rap, or rock, or country, or classical, around you, that won’t be forgotten belong. I have pondered many or whatever. We form divisions on — not by anyone who sees the way times if everyone feels its even the simplest things and we you conduct yourself and is welcoming nature as much as I give them names like jocks, hicks, influenced by it. It’s up to you. have. But when I think about it, it Goths and nerds. We’re counting on you for a world wasn’t just the national FFA or a We find differences to divide us that we all want to live in in the state activity that made me feel in just about everything, and it future. FFA members, please join welcome. It was the members of my becomes necessary to confine me in OUR WORLD. local chapter; people like Trevyn ourselves to living in our own little

39 Convention Speakers Dr. Lowell Catlett Catlett, a professor, agriculture futurist, and former national FFA officer shared his many insights about the emerging trends and technologies in agriculture. His message left FFA members contemplating their roles in the agriculture industry of tomorrow. PHOTO BY SAM HARREL

Chad Varga Varga shared his story about overcoming obstacles to achieve goals. Emerging from an abusive childhood to become a professional basketball player in Europe, he walked away from a lucrative athletic career to serve another purpose: to share a message about success with students across the nation, helping them understand how to reach their dreams and find purpose in life. PHOTO BY WALES HUNTER

40 Convention Speakers

Robin Roberts “FFA members rock!” This was the beginning of Roberts’ address to the Friday night audience, as she talked about looking at the “big picture” when striving to achieve goals. Roberts overcame stereotypes to become the first female sportscaster for ESPN’s “Sports Center.” She is now a newscaster for ABC’s “Good Morning America.” PHOTO BY KELLY ROGERS PHOTO BY KELLY ROGERS Christopher Stone Staff Sergeant Stone inspired members with his story of being a prisoner of war in the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. After more than a month in captivity, Stone was released by his captors. During his powerful message, he spoke of remembering his family, faith and country.

41 Retiring Address

We’ve all seen it before. It’s the was a challenge. I thought I was first class of the morning and doing things to add boards left homework is due. However, yours and right. Tap, tap, tap, a board isn’t quite finished. So, do we copy goes up: “Hi there, Mrs. Johnson. and get the good grade, or do we Can I help you across the street take what we deserve? Or, you get today?” Tap, tap, tap, a board goes your change back from the store up: “Well sure, I’ll stay after school and help you weigh pigs, Seth Heinert Mr. Kennah.” Tap, tap, tap, a board goes on: “No, thank you. I National FFA Secretary don’t think I’ll go to that party. General Session Three You know I don’t drink.” And then things happened, Constructing a Life things that happen to all of us, that challenged my character a clerk and they counted it back bit. “Yeah, Dad, I realize I was wrong—in your favor. So, do you supposed to pick feed up for my keep it or return the money? You steers, but I didn’t feel like getting just got pulled over for speeding! any. Besides, you were the one PHOTO BY ED ZURGA A big ticket is coming your way— who wanted me to do this in the ples, our heroes. It’s easy to try that is, unless you can think of a first place.” Riiip, there goes a and find them from a far-off land. “little white lie” to excuse your board. No big deal, it was just a My heroes were movie stars and actions. little one. “Hey, did you hear the rock stars and TV stars. I could Temptation, pressures, fear, dirty joke about the duck? Well, I model my life after each and every envy, pride, jealousy—all pulling really shouldn’t repeat it, but…” move they made. Hey, if we are at us, urging us to bend, to give in. Riiip, there goes a board, a little talking about character houses, all Oh, it may seem subtle, but it’s an bigger this time. “So, um, will your famous people must live in the all-out attack—an attack on our parents mind if we stay out a little character mansions on the hill, character. after curfew?” Riiip, there went a right? Growing up, Garth Brooks I have never been exactly what whole lumber yard! was that hero for me. I sang his you might call a perfect angel, but What are we doing? All of songs, I knew his history, I even who is? I felt it was all right for me this—the little white lies, shifting tried to match my wardrobe to to stretch the truth every now and blame, half-truths and put- those flashy shirts he wore. To me, then or sling insults at my sisters. downs—slowly erodes the struc- he stood not only as a leader in Hey! I was just being a kid, right? ture of our little character houses. music, but he was also a devoted One day, my mother told me what If I am to live a life of trust, of family man and a dreamer. Sure, my actions were doing to myself respect, of honor and dignity, we had never met, but I wanted to and everyone around me. She then it would have to begin with live my life a lot like his! That is said, “A life filled with character is my character. But I was just about partly why it was so tragic when a lot like a house. Each good deed, one board away from the whole the other relationships in his life wise decision or simply living a thing falling down around my feet were exposed. Sometimes, we for- healthy lifestyle puts boards on It’s time we, as leaders, heroes get our “Hollywood heroes” are your character house. On the and role models, get back to the just people too. Every person, no other hand, telling lies, cheating basics of life. It’s time we live lives matter how famous or seemingly or torturing your sisters tears that model our beliefs — beliefs inconspicuous, serves as an exam- boards off of your house. Your that are based on a solid founda- ple to someone—good or bad. actions serve as an example, Seth, tion. It’s time we stop tearing We don’t have to look very far to everyone around you. Your down and start building up the away! Role models we can use as house of character is always under character house of our lives. It blueprints for our lives surround us. construction, so it’s up to you if begins with looking at the blue- I believe it’s nice to have movie you want to add boards on every prints of our heroes, developing a star heroes, but it’s necessary to day and live in a character man- foundation from which to work have real-life heroes that you can sion or tear boards off and just live and then choosing daily to build look to for examples of strength in in a shack.” on, and never tear down, the walls your own life. They are real people The concept of that character of your character house. we can look to, or better yet, talk house stuck with me. Years later, A house of character requires to on a daily basis for guidance. We in high school, I found out keep- good blueprints. Blueprints come can ask them for suggestions during ing boards on my character house from our role models, our exam- difficult times or when we need 42 advice on life. When you look at their nent of my life. Once you find your faith, have to approach adding boards fully. If character house, it might not be the run deep with it. Find time daily to there is one area in trouble, that is the flashiest, but it will be big. The reason? reflect on areas of growth in your life and area to box up and pack out of your char- They daily live lives of character. These on the good things that are happening. acter house. Eliminate it. heroes show strength daily, not just when Be kind to all, but choose your friends You can add boards through your everyone is watching. wisely. Friends have an unmistakable words. Use your words as a tool of sup- I am surrounded by real-life examples amount of influence in our lives. Choose port, of praise, and let your words be of character role models. It’s the work friends that serve to build on your guided by truth. People will remember ethic I see in my grandfather. It’s the strengths. Once you find them, have you for your kept promises and honesty. faith I see in my mother. It’s the steadi- them help keep you accountable for the The character of your word is your great- ness I see in my father. It’s the loyalty I person you can’t hold yourself to be. est asset, and honesty is your best virtue. see in my friends. Then, be willing to do the same for them. Every day we make solid choices based This year, it was business leaders we This year, I have found friends of unshak- on our values is a day we can add boards visited who spoke of choosing integrity able character all over the nation! From to our character house. over a quick buck. It was teachers who hay stacking contests in East Nicolaus, Before I left for college, my family selflessly taught, trained and brought you Calif., to ag olympics in Jackson, Miss., I gave me a gift. It was a simple poem to to conventions. It was hunger in the eyes have been so filled with the strength of hang on my wall. It was entitled, “The of state officers at our training in character that my friends represent. Man in the Glass.” Mississippi, Indiana and Idaho who Once we have established our founda- It reads, “When you get what you want stayed after hours, just to make sure their tion of character, the daily construction in your struggle for self, and the world work was ready for the next day. Ladies of character in our lives begins. Imagine makes you king for a day, just go to a and gentlemen, they’re all over the living in a house that was always under mirror and look at yourself, and see what place! You are one of them! The question construction. All day and all night, ham- that man has to say. For it isn't your is, do we live our lives in such a way as to mers would be banging, saws would be father or mother or wife, who judgment be a good blueprint for those who are sawing. There would be a few things upon you must pass; the fellow whose looking? Go home and find one person about this house you would notice. First verdict counts most in your life is the you can use as your role model. Hey, and most obviously, it would continue to one staring back from the glass. He's the maybe you can be one for someone else. grow. Upward, outward, but never back- fellow to please, never mind all the rest, A good blueprint leads to a solid ward. But the taller and heavier it gets, for he's with you clear up to the end, and foundation. All character houses must the more the foundation must be support- you've passed the most dangerous, diffi- begin with one. Often we may find our- ed. Our lives are like this house. We are cult test if the man in the glass is your selves saying, “I just don’t know what I constantly growing, pursuing excellence, friend. You may fool the whole world should do.” However, if we truly evalu- but never quite arriving at our destina- down the pathway of years, and get pats ate our values, what we struggle with is tion. We can grow our house of character on the back as you pass, but your final what we want to do rather than what we through making solid choices based on reward will be heartaches and tears if should do. Therefore, we must have a our foundation. The more we grow, the you've cheated the man in the glass.” foundation to base our character on. A stronger our foundation becomes. The house of character we build for philosophy that will stand solid forever. When faced with an ethical choice or ourselves is constantly under construc- A solid foundation is based on the three temptation, consider the example you set tion. When we begin with the blueprints most important F’s you can get in for others. Once, at a friend’s house, I of solid role model and add an unshak- school—family, faith, and friends. phoned my mother. I was not supposed able foundation based on our family, Family helps to form our character; it to be there, but I lied and told her I was friends and faith, we have something we doesn’t decide it. We can either blame at another house and just running a little can always refer back to when times grow our families for all of the challenges we late. Too bad my lie was exposed when I difficult. With every promise kept, every have because of them, or we can be found out we had just got caller ID! That helpful hand offered and every sincere thankful for the strengths, few or many, single action corroded some of the trust word we offer, we put boards on the side they have passed on to us and grow in between us, and I had to work to regain of our house. Choosing to live with char- the areas we need. This year, I have been it. You see, it’s not just one piece of our acter is not a quick fix, but rather mak- especially thankful for the solid founda- lives that needs good character but all ing a conscious effort to live a better life. tion of family I could always find parts. Think about how many eyes are on It is written “It is not in life’s changes strength in. Our family helps form our you when you go home. Most of us in but in life’s choices that happiness foundation, so stand strong for the val- here are brothers or sisters, aunts or comes.” FFA members, our lives are like ues they represent. uncles. We are students and we are houses of character. Begin today to add Faith is defined in Hebrews 11:1 as teachers. We are members of churches, boards with your actions. “the substance of things hoped for, the members of sports teams, members of It’s the simple things of your life that evidence of things not seen.” There is a school clubs. We dance, we sing, we do can do it, really. It’s simply choosing to need in each of us to find some form of all sorts of crazy stuff. And the whole hold who needs holding, mend what spirituality in our lives. Studies have time, people are watching every move we needs mending, walk what needs walk- shown that people who develop their make. So choose your actions and your ing, though it means an extra mile. personal faith live longer, have less stress words carefully. While most of us have Pray what needs praying, say what and lead happier lives. We have a deep never been on a reality TV show, imag- needs saying, cause we’re only here for a connection with a place we can take our ine what it would be like to have every little while. life’s challenges to. I am thankful I was move you make broadcast for the whole FFA members, it’s up to you. At this raised in a Christian home and find that world to see. Picture that! What areas of time next year, what will your character to be the single most important compo- your life would you not want seen? We house look like? 43 Retiring Address

Today the popular thing is down in the family as reality TV. Shows like “Fear it had been for genera- Factor,” “Who Wants to Marry a tions before due to a Millionaire?,” “Reality Wedding,” family member mort- “Trading Spaces,” “Who Wants to gaging it and then hav- Marry My Father?…Mother?… ing it repossessed. Or Brother?…Sister?…Cousin Twice maybe you go to a fam- Removed?”…the list goes on and ily event and a relative on and on. Heck, I even submit- has gained a little too much weight to be J.J. Jones healthy, but your men- tioning it would cause Central Region Vice more pain than the risk President they are in. Maybe there is a scandal at Ninth General Session school you don’t con- done, but it is easier to Requesting Reality, Please let it play out on its own. Perfect examples ted an idea for a show called of issues that can be PHOTO BY WALES HUNTER “Who Wants to Marry the left unspoken in order even a person’s name, we contem- Central Region Vice President?” to spare others’ feelings. plate our view of the issue. Can you believe the gall of the But I believe the second rea- Depending on our level of passion networks? They turned me down! son is much more damaging. I about that issue, we may have a Well, it’s time for a Reality believe there are issues that we’re definite, closed-minded opinion, Retiring Address. No, there won’t afraid to bring up—many we hear or we may have a loose opinion be any weird creatures to eat, about every day. Issues that range but are willing to listen and learn remodeling projects to complete from our family to our friends. due to the fact that we desire to and, for goodness sakes, no wed- Issues that impact us from our learn more about the subject. So ding bells to ring after two hours kitchen tables to the House of often, though, no matter how of courtship. I mean, really, whose Representatives. We often don’t strong our opinion, we aren’t will- reality is this? I know it’s not bring these issues up because peo- ing to share it or stand up for mine and hope it’s not yours. ple get emotional or passionate what we feel. We’re faced with much more diffi- about them and we just want to No one can tell you what you cult decisions that are real on a avoid an argument. Sometimes we feel is right or wrong, good or bad, daily basis—decisions that not avoid these issues because we just or unjust. Nobody except you. only affect us, but our family, don’t know enough information Others can help form or modify friends, community, country and on the subject to discuss it intelli- your thoughts and opinions, and the world in which we live. But gently. These issues are so large in at times their arguments may unfortunately, certain ones have size and scope that it is easier to even convince you to change your been deemed socially unaccept- ignore them—but they are real mind, but the key is this—each of able, politically incorrect or flat- and can’t be ignored. us has an opinion that is impor- out things that we shouldn’t bring Let’s try something really quickly. tant and we need to at least be up but instead sweep under the Abortion knowledgeable enough to share rug. Death penalty our thoughts and ideas. I believe there are two main Premarital sex Being knowledgeable on a sub- reasons we do this. The first rea- Religion ject doesn’t mean you have to be son is that it’s simply easier to Republicans an expert. It’s as simple as reading shove certain topics away and go Democrats the school newspaper to see what about our daily lives without Bill Clinton issues face your school, listening addressing them. We do this George Bush to the local radio station to hear because of the hurt and pain that Now, I know that as I said what topics are being discussed in it may cause. Here are a few each of those, you had a thought your community, watching the examples: running through your mind. You news to see what is going on in In my family, we never bring had an opinion—it’s human our country and world or taking up the issue of why my great- nature. As soon as each of us an hour each week to learn more grandparents’ house wasn’t passed hears a rule, law, comment or about a subject.

44 Now, you may be asking, “But fact that we never lock our car Today, our country still needs J.J., why is it important that I doors—except during zucchini leaders like Paul Bankhead, learn about these issues and form season because if you don’t lock Martin Luther King Jr., Abraham an opinion—why should I care?” your doors then, well, your back- Lincoln and Sandra Day Well, let’s look at how just one seat will overflow with Margaret O’Connor. Not people who know person can bring about change. If Pinalto’s bumper crop—and a who’s dating who in Hollywood or in 1969 Paul Bankhead hadn’t neighbor is always willing to give who can alphabetically list every expressed his opinion that anyone a helping hand even when they Xbox game. We need people, could contribute to agriculture, are running late. But when I was a LEADERS, who are prepared to half of you might not be in this kid, it always bothered me that deal in the real world. Leaders room. Yes, ladies, I’m referring to many people in my part of Kansas who will hold honest and forth- when the Future Farmers of wouldn’t express their opinion right discussions about those very America decided to allow women because they feared what the important society-impacting into the organization. neighbors would think. I honestly issues, even when it seems as if Speaking of the Future Farmers thought it was just a northwest the rest of the world is scared to of America, if in 1988 a delegate Kansas thing, but this year, as I face reality. hadn’t made a motion to change have traveled, I have found it to FFA members, more than ever, the name of the organization, be true in many places throughout this is the moment to become many of us may have never our country. educated on topics and voice your joined. In almost every chapter, com- opinions for your well-being and We can even take this idea of munity or state, there are those the good of those around you. My one person’s influence up to the “sacred cows” that we don’t talk friends, this is the moment. Begin next level. What if Martin Luther about because they lead to heated living reality. Become a real King Jr. hadn’t stood up for civil arguments. At times we don’t act leader for the real world. rights? What if Abraham Lincoln on them because others may make hadn’t stood up for the freedom of fun of us. Even when we are edu- all men? What if George cated and sure of our opinions, we Washington hadn’t helped shape sometimes hesitate. I think We need people, this great nation? What if back…what if 33 farm boys had Christopher Columbus hadn’t hesitated in 1928 to form this LEADERS, who tried to sail around the world? organization? What if the found- What if Sandra Day O’Connor ing fathers of our country had are prepared to hadn’t broken the stereotype that stood by quietly rather than all Supreme Court justices are speaking out for our freedom? deal in the real men? All real issues in the real How many of you recognize world. the following few lines? world. These individuals stood up for “We hold these Truths to be their beliefs because they cared self-evident, that all Men are cre- enough about a topic to learn ated equal, that they are endowed about it and develop confidence by their Creator with certain “This is the moment! This is in their opinion. In order for each unalienable Rights, that among the day of us to take a stand on issues that these are Life, Liberty and the When I send all my doubts are important in our lives, we Pursuit of Happiness….” Yes, it is and demons on their way! must first educate ourselves. We part of the Declaration of Ev’ry endeavor I have made don’t have to become an expert Independence that ensures so ever… on everything, but we shouldn’t much of what you and I cherish. Is coming into play, be afraid to learn about the issues What about these lines? Is here and now today! that affect our society. If we don’t “The National FFA know the facts, we should be Organization is the organization “This is the moment! This is ready to ask questions so that we of, by, and for students enrolled in the time can learn before forming an opin- agricultural education programs.” When the momentum and the ion. That is part of the FFA consti- moment are in rhyme. Oh, but once we have an edu- tution. Over 4 million members Give me this moment, this cated opinion, we must use it—we have shaped the FFA legacy. Each precious chance. must be ready to share it. and every day, you and I have the I’ll gather up my past, and Growing up, though, I wasn’t responsibility to share our opin- make some sense at last! always likely to share my opinion. ions so that we continue to build Many who have gotten to know upon what so many have believed “This is the moment when all me this year know that I am in. That is why the FFA and our I’ve done, extremely proud to be from north- country are a living legacy— All the dreaming, scheming west Kansas. I love the small- because they are both still grow- and screaming become one! town atmosphere—the fact that ing and changing while honoring This is the day, see it sparkle everyone knows everyone by the forefathers who believed in and shine, name, who drives what car and them enough to struggle for their When all I’ve lived for who owns every dog in town. The creation and growth. becomes mine.” 45 Retiring Address

Narrator: Voice 2: In the darkest part of the night, “Captain Smith, sir. a captain cautiously piloted his Once again with all due warship through the fog-shrouded respect, I command you waters. With straining eyes, he to alter your course 10 scanned the hazy darkness, degrees to the north! I searching for dangers lurking just am a lighthouse!” out of sight. His worst fears were I’ve never piloted a Julie Tyson warship through fog- shrouded waters, but Eastern Region Vice over the past 12 months, I have traveled President in a variety of different Session Five ways: by car through the cornfields of Traveling Light Nebraska and the hills of West Virginia…by realized when he saw a bright bullet train past Mt. light straight ahead. It appeared Fuji in Japan…by ship PHOTO BY KELLY ROGERS to be a vessel on a collision course on the Potomac River The people I’ve always admired with his ship. To avert disaster, he at the State Presidents’ are honest and hardworking! quickly radioed the oncoming Conference…by van to Pike’s Individuals who live their values vessel. Peak in Colo.…by plane to and enjoy the lives they lead. Phoenix, Ariz.; Spokane, Wash.; People who laugh often and Voice 1: Minneapolis, Minn. and Tulsa, display passion, joyfully “This is Captain Jeremiah Okla.…and by van to this, the experiencing each and every day! Smith,” his voice cracked over 2003 National FFA Convention! When I was in the eighth grade, the radio. “Please alter your Even when getting on a plane I tutored students in a fifth grade course 10 degrees south! Over.” was a pretty regular part of the job, math class. Whether we were this year has never taken me far working on word problems, Voice 2: from thoughts of home. The family fractions or long division, I can “Captain Smith. This is Private that welcomed me home with still hear the students saying, “Hey Thomas Johnson. Please alter your loving arms was always with me. Julie! How do you solve number course 10 degrees north! Over.” No matter the destination or mode 10? I don’t understand.” of transportation, my focus was the Some of the greatest moments of Voice 1: same. The same beacon that has joy that year came as I sat with the “Private Johnson, this is been with me all of my life, the students in Mrs. Brown’s class…as Captain Smith, and I order you to one that will shine for all that is to I saw the light of understanding immediately alter your course 10 come, cast rays that guide our turn on behind their eyes…when degrees south! Over.” path. Rays like those of a they smiled and proudly shared the lighthouse. A lighthouse: steady, results of their most recent test Voice 2: unmoved and visible no matter with me…when I saw them after “With all due respect Captain what the weather conditions. school and we talked about the Smith, I order you to alter your This year, more than ever other events in their lives. course immediately 10 degrees before, I realized what great We never quite understand why north! Over.” beacons my family and friends are we’re blessed with certain experi- to me. Like the rays of a ences, but when I look back, I real- Voice 1: lighthouse, their example has ize it was then I decided that if The captain growled back over shone brightly in my life, casting people were going to look to me the radio, “Private Johnson. I can rays of light that guide my path. for guidance, then I ought to be have you court-martialed for this! They’re leaders who chart a clear the sort of person who’s worth fol- For the last time, I command you course in rough waters and through lowing, who’s worth looking up to. on the authority of the United foggy nights. The decision to be a leader States government to alter your What is it about leaders that seems like an easy one to make, course 10 degrees to the south! I draws us to them and compels us but how do we actually become a am a battleship!” to follow? person who can be a light for

46 others to follow? What steps do we State Buckeyes won the national AGRICULTURE!” He was right, take to get there? Is it a step-by- football championship, I found there are FFA members who step process like those word myself on a flight to Arizona. One believe in the power of their problems I helped Mrs. Brown’s afternoon, I had traveled with dreams! fifth graders solve? Do we have to their state president, Brian, to What would happen if we all make major changes? Or is it more Yuma, Ariz., the winter salad bowl found something to be that simple? capital of the world. After visiting excited about? What if we all Becoming a leader isn’t a the three schools in the area, we found something that filled us problem-solving activity and spent the afternoon driving with that much joy, that much doesn’t involve major changes to around. Now, whether you’re a fan pride? A dream to pursue that lit our personality. We can become of Ford, Dodge or Chevy…driving the fire within us. What would influential leaders by turning our down the road in a pickup truck happen if we let our dreams keep steering wheel slightly, by with the windows rolled down and burning strong, driving us to changing our course just a few the radio turned up is one of the achieve our goals? degrees. For me, it’s as simple as greatest feelings! On this warm What would happen if we just turning to my family and closest afternoon we stopped to visit two changed our thinking a few friends for some help, for a gentle FFA members, Kyle and Mike, degrees? If we stopped for 30 reminder about the joys in life. who showed Brian and me their seconds and focused on all of the What are the joys that guide us? supervised agricultural experience things that fill us with pride and Do you remember the last time programs and offered me a glimpse an overwhelming sense of joy? If you laughed so hard you cried? of what brings them joy. we focused on what we do well, Some of us are still laughing! Kyle began by showing us how those unique gifts that are ours Different types of laughter his family grows celery. I’d never alone to share with the world? escape our lips every day: from the really thought about how celery No matter what our individual sarcastic laugh and genuine was grown. Have you? But over gifts or abilities, we’ve enrolled in chuckle to the belly-aching, full- the next hour, I discovered not agricultural education; we’ve said hearted laugh. only what their operation the Creed and earned our jacket. The average adult laughs 15 entailed, but also the pride that But does just putting on the times a day. A child, 435! Humor Kyle and his father share. After jacket make us successful FFA is a universal language. It's a checking out the celery operation, members? No more than standing contagious emotion and a natural Brian, Kyle, Mike and I jumped in a garage makes us a car! How diversion. Laughing boosts the back in the pickup truck and then do we achieve the success we immune system. It brings other drove down the dusty lane. dream of? people in and breaks down As we drove through the lemon We’re all programmed for barriers. Best of all, it is free. trees, Kyle explained the irrigation greatness! Just as a lighthouse is We’ve heard that: system, why the trees were planted programmed to create a constant “Instead of rolling with the in this particular pattern and how stream of light that reaches out punches — duck!” the lemons were harvested and the into the darkness, we’re gifted with “Happiness happens...one smile trees pruned each year. With abilities that help us to smile with at a time.” excitement in his voice, he joy and pride, that help us to “We will make a world of described his family’s plan for the achieve success. We’ll be difference — one act of kindness expansion of the farm. Just then successful because we expect at a time.” we stopped and got out of the nothing less. Those times when we laugh with truck. I pulled out my camera to Like a lighthouse, our light will our whole being, our smile take a picture by a cactus (a very be unwavering, steadfast and stretches wide across our face and touristy thing to do, but they just illuminating; it will give hope to we’re filled with joy. If we could don’t grow like that in Ohio!), others. just laugh a few more times each and I heard Kyle telling Brian that What does it take to shine that day, a small change, think of the this particular cactus was planted light? Merely altering our course a difference it would make. Those by his father on the day he was few degrees–laughing a little more moments are worth experiencing born. This farm has been in the and believing in our dreams! daily. They’re worth cherishing family for generations, and Kyle’s When we love those around us, and remembering. dream is to return to the farm we leave an amazing legacy. When Joy is such a precious gift. It’s after college. our days are filled with joy and our not as spontaneous as some may Too soon, Brian and I parted focus is on unwavering values, we think. The source of our joy is with Kyle and his best friend shine the rays that guide someone found in beliefs, values and Mike. As Brian and I got in his else’s path; we’re a traveling light. relationships developed over time. car to leave, he struck the palm of Each of us has all the tools and One of the greatest joys of this his hand on the steering wheel resources we need; what we do year was developing relationships and exclaimed, “THAT IS WHY with them is up to us. Don’t ever with FFA members from across WE HAVE AN ORGANIZA- forget there’s someone who the country. At the end of TION! THERE ARE STILL FFA believes in you. You have a gift; February, which was about a MEMBERS OUT THERE WHO you’re one of a kind. God put you month and a half after the Ohio BELIEVE IN THE FUTURE OF here so you could shine!

47 Retiring Address

When I was young, there were traveling this year in very few things that I enjoyed places like Oregon, more than Saturday mornings at Wisconsin and Grandma’s. The adventures at Pennsylvania, I have Grandma’s often began when my learned that we each brother Philip and I decided we have our favorites, whether in breakfast Joel McKie cereals, college football teams or tractor color. Southern Region Vice This morning we President have a huge stage at the 2003 National FFA General Session Four Convention to decide just what some of those The Best Way to favorites are among Start Your Day FFA members. Now we may NOT be able to wanted to spend Friday night decide today whether somewhere other than at home. the favorite tractor We would head up the road two- color among FFA PHOTO BY WALES HUNTER tenths of a mile, watch television members is red or winner? I said, are you ready to well into the night and then sleep green. We probably can’t deter- hear the winner? in the next morning. mine whether the Tigers, the Now stop a minute and think That was when the real fun Cowboys or the Bulldogs are the “why.” Why are you ready to hear began! Around 9:30, Philip and I most loved college football team the winner? What inside of you would wake up and turn on the in the land. But we can determine makes you want to know whether television to our favorite cartoons. the favorite breakfast cereal among your cereal won or not?—especial- My grandma, who had been up for FFA members. ly when we made our decision hours, would hear us in the bed- As a matter of fact, we have based on the shape of the cereal, room. She soon would poke her here with us two of the most popu- the mascot or the front of the box. head in and ask my favorite ques- lar brands. We have a box of Lucky Now you’re probably thinking, tion, “What do you boys want for Charms and a box of Froot Loops. “Hey Joel, don’t leave us hanging! breakfast?” In a moment, on my cue, cheer for You told me to scream, so I “Hot dogs, Grandma! Hot dogs! your favorite cereal. The cereal screamed! Here I was trying to Three of ‘em! Just the way I like that receives the most applause help you out, and now you won’t ‘em—a little ketchup, but no bun! and cheers will be named our win- even tell me whether my favorite Pleeeeaaasssssseeeee!” That’s right, ner. cereal won or not!” You’re right; I I firmly believed the best way to You may choose your favorite did ask you to scream. And it’s get-your-morning-started-right was based on its taste, the look of the natural to want to know if your to have a nice hot dog! It was my box or maybe even the personality cereal won! But I brought you to breakfast of champions. of the mascot. Our sound-o-meter this point to share this piece of As I grew older, I realized there will help us determine who our insight. were other options for my morning winner is this morning. On the It’s normal to want to pit one meal. There were pancakes and count of three, stomp your feet, thing against another and see Blackburn syrup, pigs in a blanket, put your hands together and raise which one is better—even with ham and eggs and, of course, a your voices to make sure this something as silly as breakfast Southerner’s favorite—grits. But I sound-o-meter is indeed working. cereals. We do that same thing in soon fell in love with, of all things, Ready? One…two…three! our daily lives; we pit ourselves cereal! There were plenty of trends Sounds great! against other people and try to fig- and fads during my cereal-eating Now that we know the sound- ure out who’s the best. days. First, it was Rice Krispies, o-meter is working, let’s begin this Comparing ourselves is not then Froot Loops, a brief bout with serious cereal competition! If you necessarily a bad thing, and later Cap’n Crunch, a few Frosted feel lucky with your Lucky Charms, we will talk about the good that Flakes and then back to Froot shout out! If you absolutely love can come from comparisons. But Loops. Froot Loops, make some noise! it’s the negative results of compar- Now these were just a few of Not bad! Let’s see who our win- ing me to you, Sam to Joe, Brenda my favorite cereals growing up, but ner is. Are you ready to hear the to Kristy that can destroy our self-

48 confidence and emotional security. or worse at something than some- tion to this method of self-evalua- When I was young, and even to one else, center your attention on tion. If we can’t avoid comparing this day, I suffered from perfection- how you can best use your talents, ourselves to others, let’s use com- ism. During my early school days, I your ability and your situation. It’s parisons as a tool to discover who came to expect nothing less than mental. Your perspective deter- we are and our place in this world. the best. Now that would have mines whether the results of your I think we can all agree that been fine to expect my best, but comparisons have a positive or comparing brands of cereal seems rather, I always expected to be the negative impact on your life. pretty silly. In the grand scheme of best in the class. So any time a test This year God has blessed me things, though, isn’t the idea of or assignment was handed back, I with five incredible teammates. A comparing cars, hair, houses, would begin looking around the year ago tomorrow, we came clothes or talents just as ridiculous? room to see how my test score together on this very stage for the The idea of letting the compar- stacked up against everyone else. first time. When the excitement of isons we make rule our lives in a Usually, I was in pretty good our own individual triumph began negative way is simply outrageous. shape, but on occasion, my grade to subside, we soon discovered But it happens. People you was less than the best in the class. each other’s unique talents, per- know are already suffering from it. In those cases, rather than being sonalities and, yes, imperfections. Maybe you are. Maybe the nega- proud of my performance, I felt Naturally, we began to evaluate tive results of comparisons are like I had failed. When my class- each other’s strengths and weak- keeping you from being the real mates recognized my need for nesses. We recognized Julie’s poise, Brett, the true Jessica or the superior grades, they would some- Seth’s creativity, J.J.’s practicality, unique Tiffany. You may be search- times gloat when their perform- Dustin’s charisma and Tim’s logic. ing for “who you are” in all the ance surpassed mine! We all realized our individual roles wrong places because you believe By comparing myself so much, and our place on this team. you’re not good enough to be the my self-esteem and my perception That’s the great thing about person you truly are. of “who I was” became dependent living in this world full of talented FFA members, the result of on having the best grade in the people. We are not asked to be the comparing yourself can be good or class. These comparisons began to best; we are simply asked to do our bad, worthwhile or wasteful, control my life. best. We will naturally excel in healthy or unhealthy. It’s your FFA members, comparisons certain areas of our lives, and yet happen everywhere! We experi- in other places, it will be more ence them at school, at the mall, challenging for us to succeed. We If we can’t avoid on athletic fields, on FFA trips and often discover our strengths and comparing ourselves to even at home with our brothers growth opportunities by comparing and sisters. Our society has taught ourselves to peers and other pre- others, let’s use us that it’s the norm to compare determined standards. comparisons as a tool to my looks to your looks, my talents That’s the essence of math discover who we are and to your talents, my house to your tests, athletic competitions and house, my intelligence to your FFA career development events. our place in this world. intelligence and my life to your These types of comparisons help us life. We might say to our friends, “I to understand “what we are good decision! It is a choice that you wish my family had as much at” and thus begin our journey of make on a daily basis. Just as you money as his family does,” or “She finding our place in this world. step out of bed, dress, brush your speaks so much better than I do.” Many of you came to conven- teeth and eat breakfast every So often when we start making tion in hopes of winning a nation- morning, make it a habit to look comparisons to other people’s situ- al competition. For those of you in the mirror and promise yourself ations, abilities and lifestyles, we with these goals, it would be easy you’ll only make healthy compar- sell ourselves short and begin to to leave Louisville thinking that isons. believe that we are indeed less for- you’re less simply because someone Then you’ll realize that striking tunate and less gifted. Long-term, else might have been more this out in an important game doesn’t if we trick ourselves into believing week. Some of you look down your make you a poor baseball player. that we’re not successful because row of seats and wonder why he or You’ll understand that not winning we’re not the best at something, she is in a higher office than you. the local creed-speaking event we become insecure and act Others will go back to school on actually allowed you to grow. You uncomfortable in our very own Monday and dream of being beau- might not be the best dressed, but skin. tiful or handsome so they can you could be the best read. Find This morning I am not asking catch the eye of that special some- your inner-self amid the scars of you to stop comparing yourself to one. Next weekend, undoubtedly, defeat and the triumphs of victory. other people—that would be near- a few of you will sit around and Use comparisons to define “who ly impossible. Instead, I am chal- talk about who has the best car or you are” and to discover your place lenging you to change your mental truck. in this world. FFA members and perspective when you compare These are all natural compar- guests, that’s the best way to start yourself to others. Rather than isons. But we must consciously your day! focusing on whether you’re better choose to change our natural reac-

49 Retiring Address

Wow, what a ride! always reply, “Because Taking a leap out of a moving it’s cool.” aircraft from 2.5 miles above the My desire to be cool Earth, free falling for 45 seconds, reached a peak one then coasting down to Earth for night when my best four to five minutes. Now that is friend Brian and I were what I call an experience of a hanging out. We lifetime! decided it was time to take the lead at school Dustin A.G. Clark by starting a new fad. We brainstormed and Western Region Vice brainstormed, but President couldn’t come up with any ideas. Then Brian General Session Seven said, “Dude, we need to get some Dickies.” I Live…Right…Now said, “Some Dickies?” He said, “Yeah, you How many of us are just waiting know those overalls for that experience of a lifetime? people wear.” Those PHOTO BY ED ZURGA How many of us are waiting to overalls were what my laughing hysterically at something, wake up one day and just be blown grandad wore! Brian suggested we so I looked to see what they were away with the awesome things that get them really, really big. Aha. I laughing at…and realized it was are going on in our lives? I am finally got it. We were on to me! willing to bet all of us are. something. So we begged and I was crushed, humiliated and You know what? So was I—and begged my stepmom to take us to broken. The group of “cool” people this is what led me to pursue such a Wal-Mart so we could buy some that I was trying to fit in with just crazy act as skydiving. Dickies. laughed at me even more. As I prepared for the dive, I Before I knew it, we were in the I had failed in my attempt to be realized that three things would be middle of the aisles trying on cool and impress “the in crowd” critical to the success of that jump. overalls. Finally I found my pair. with my big Dickies. As I failed I had to Live…and make the I’d like to show you the Dickies there, I also failed myself. As much decision myself, not letting anyone that I bought, but you need to as I was trying to please other else dictate my actions. understand something about me people, I lost sight of pleasing I had to Live Right…once I was first—I had a 32-inch waist. I was myself. Not only did other people in the air, I had to give every bit of skinny. I am talking I was so skinny not like me, but I didn’t like me! I my attention to the people who that I had to jump around in the wasn’t living; I was pretending. were around me. shower to get wet. So, I bought a Then I tried just going back to I had to Live Right Now…I size 40. living my life…liking country knew that when I was about to After buying them, I couldn’t music, wearing Wrangler 20X jeans, jump out of that airplane, I wait to wear them to school the going spotlighting on the couldn’t let hesitation stand in my next morning. So I woke up, put weekends, watching way! them on and went to school. As I “SportsCenter,” driving a tractor When I first had the idea to go walked into the school, I had a and staying home on Friday nights. skydiving, it was met with fierce new limp and a new lingo. I saw Now none of these things ever resistance. But I’ve always liked to the captain of our basketball team got me voted best dressed, most do my own thing. and I said, “Hey, what up dog?” He popular or most likely to succeed. I Just like when I was in junior just left me hanging. But, I was got something much sweeter high—I was just like every other like, it’s okay, because up walked though—I got an inner peace and junior high student. I had one the girl that I had a crush on for happiness. That happiness came desire, and that was to be cool. You two years. I just knew that she was from simply being myself, not know what I am talking about…so going to ask me to go to because I was “popular.” cool that I was above taking my homecoming. She approached me So you ask, What does it mean lunch to school. So cool that I and said, “Will you…let me borrow to live? To live is to let absolutely would only sling my backpack over your biology book?” I was so no one’s opinion dictate who you one shoulder. When I was asked disappointed. Then I turned around are. Be proud of your faith; be why do I do these things, I would because I heard a group of people proud of your taste in clothes; be

50 proud of having a clean vocabulary; be people accept you. We feel the best when made, I heard that it was time to board proud of wearing your official dress people laugh at our jokes, want to listen our next flight so I realized I didn’t have through the hall; be proud of daring to be to our stories or when they want to ride time to call one person back that day. It the one that makes his own decisions. I in our car. Because of this need, we turn was Jessica, a state officer and a great promise that you will be rewarded. This is to alcohol so that our peers accept us. We friend. I thought she was just calling to what it is to live. turn to premarital sex because that one say hello. Back to the day that I risked my life— person shows us that we are wanted. So Well, one tomorrow turned into no, I’m not talking about my first date, what greater way to change a person’s life another tomorrow and another, and rather my skydiving experience. To than to show them that they are needed before I knew it, two weeks had passed. ensure the safety of the jump, I and wanted? When I tried to call her, she didn’t mentioned that I had to focus on those Here is the bottom line: We will answer her phone. I called another friend two people who were around me. Not change people’s lives by doing exactly as to ask if he had talked to Jessica, and he only was I living that day, I knew by Jesus did in the example I shared. All we said, “Oh Dustin, you haven’t heard? She doing this, I would live right. must do is show a genuine interest in is in the hospital. She tried to commit We can learn a lot from a guy who I other people. How do we do this? By… suicide.” hold close to my heart. When Jesus was Asking people, whether they’re our I’ll never ever forget the feeling that I only 30 years old, He was making His way friends or not, how their day was…and had at that very moment. I was so mad at to Jerusalem. Throughout the day, He really caring about their answer. myself! I had put off calling her back would teach, preach and then heal Sitting at the lunch table with the when she really needed me. I couldn’t people who had broken bones, leprosy or person who eats alone every day. help but wonder…if I had called her back were dying of cancer. Many people would Simply asking questions that show sooner and shown her how much I care run to Him and want Him to perform that you are interested in other people’s for her, would she still have tried to take miraculous works and, of course, if they lives. her own life? I hated myself for waiting. I had faith, He could heal them. We don’t have to teach, preach and would have given anything to have those The 12 disciples who were traveling heal. To live right, all we must do is let two weeks back to call her back sooner. with Him witnessed all of this. One people know that we care about them. We live in a world where everyone afternoon, in the midst of all His healing, So the second thing I learned that day points to tomorrow. Our role models tell teaching and preaching, a group of was that I had to focus on those around us to dream about tomorrow and focus on children approached Jesus. But the me. This is what it is to LIVE RIGHT. the future to achieve success. My disciples told them to go away—Jesus When I was in that airplane 13,500 personal experience tells me otherwise. I didn’t have time for them. Jesus was feet over the Earth, fear overwhelmed me have learned that the successes of greatly displeased and said, “Let the little and I considered not jumping. But then tomorrow depend upon the actions of children come to me and do not forbid the others I was with said, “If you are today. them.” So the children came to Him. He going, it’s now or never!” I knew that if I Hear me…we will not be successful took them up in His arms, laid His hands tomorrow if we do not act today! On your on them and they were blessed. way home, write one word on a piece of Two significant things happened paper, your convention program or the there. Jesus made time for the children To live is to let little bag that you find in the seatback when He already had His hands full with pocket on the airplane. Write the word teaching, preaching and healing. absolutely no one’s “now.” When you get home, put it on Secondly, He didn’t say a word to them. your mirror in your bathroom, your locker He simply accepted them. FFA members, opinion dictate or the dash of your car, just somewhere this pure example of care is a great model you will see it every day. Then whenever of how to LIVE RIGHT. This is the root who you are. you ask yourself when should I do this or of all success — to take care of other when should I do that, the answer is in people. front of your eyes. As FFA members, we are called to a wanted to experience skydiving, I had to The time to act is now! It’s not when higher calling than many others our age. LIVE RIGHT NOW! we get home from national convention; We have chosen roles in which we are Now or never. it’s not when we graduate. It’s now. It’s expected to be people of positive My teammates and I were stepping pretty simple in my mind. Someone has influence. We are called to change the onto American soil after an amazing trip got to stand up and be proud of who they lives of people around us. Some people halfway around the world to Japan. We are. Then we have got to reach out and would argue that the only people who were all tired from the 14-hour flight and let others know that they belong. And can change lives are the state officers or couldn’t wait to talk to friends and family when’s the time to do that? The time to chapter officers or someone who has been and tell them of our incredible do that is NOW. That’s right, LIVE given a position of leadership. I don’t experience. RIGHT NOW. believe that. I believe that EVERY The first thing I did in the airport in Whisper that with me; say LIVE!!!!! person in Freedom Hall tonight can San Francisco was turn on my cell phone Say RIGHT! influence another. and check my voicemail. When I learned Say NOW! How? you might ask. It’s quite simple. I had 19 new messages, I quickly grabbed A LITTLE BIT LOUDER. Live Right It begins with understanding one thing— a pen and paper and began writing down Now! everyone wants to be wanted and needs everyone who had called me. Then I went Now as loud as you can! Live Right to be needed. to work, returning all of the phone calls. Now! Think about it. You are happiest when As I was close to getting all of the calls You must LIVE RIGHT NOW.

51 National Chapter Awards Sponsored by Cargill and Land O’ Lakes Foundation as a special project of the National FFA Foundation Three Star Top FFA chapters from across Colorado: Briggsdale Idalia, Liberty, the country put their programs Valley up against one another in hopes Florida: Brooksville Sr., Fort White of winning a national chapter Middle, Pine Ridge, Suwannee Middle, Suwannee Senior award. With innovation as the common theme, 30 chapters Georgia: Franklin County, Jackson County, Montgomery County competed to be named a Model of Innovation award winner in Idaho: Cambridge, Kuna one of three areas: community, Illinois: Mt. Vernon, Newark, student or chapter development. Seneca, Somonauk-Leland Awards are based on a chapter’s Indiana: Carroll at Flora, Program of Activities (POA) Shenandoah and how those activities Iowa: Alburnett, Anamosa, Benton advance the FFA mission. From Community, Creston, Harlan, Hawkeye, Manson Northwest the national finalists, an overall Webster, Monticello, Rockford, winner was chosen in each cate- Wapsie Valley gory. Middle school chapters Kansas: Arkansas City, Chapman, competed for the outstanding Holton, Linn middle school award. Kentucky: Apollo, Central Hardin, Meade County, Nelson County, PHOTO BY KELLY ROGERS Models of Brooksville Senior FFA Chapter proudly accepts the Models of Oldham County, Spencer County Innovation Innovation Award for Community Development. Michigan: Byron, Lowell, Springport Minnesota: Chaska, Perham, United winners NATIONAL WINNER NATIONAL WINNER South Central CHAPTER COMMUNITY NATIONAL WINNER Mississippi: Biggersville DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT STUDENT Missouri: Aurora, Troy DEVELOPMENT Garretson FFA, South Brooksville Senior FFA, Dakota Florida Nebraska: Centennial, Franklin, Blanchester FFA, Ohio Laurel-Concord, Norris, Ravenna, The Garretson FFA Making a difference in the Seward, Sutton Chapter of South Dakota local community has been a Members from the North Dakota: Finley-Sharon, sought to expand members’ top priority for the Brooksville Blanchester FFA Chapter in Napoleon, Wahpeton agricultural knowledge and Senior FFA Chapter of Ohio succeeded in developing Ohio: Anna, Blanchester, Bowling participation and increase Brooksville, Fla. Chapter students by implementing a Green, Canal Winchester, Miami “Student of the Quarter” chapter publicity. In a “Sell members cleaned their high East, Mississinawa Valley, National recognition program and par- What You Grow” project, school campus for a month as Trail, Otsego, Versailles ticipating in PALS (Partners members sold soy, corn, part of “Operation PRIDE,” a Oklahoma: Atoka, Central High, in Active Learning Support). cheese and meat products as countywide program promot- Chickasha, Elgin, Elk City, Glencoe, a fundraiser to learn about ing community development. Guthrie, Jenks, Moore, Stillwater, Through the PALS program, Tipton FFA members tutored 27 at- value-added products. The chapter also raised more Oregon: Perrydale risk elementary students. Members also promoted than $1,500 for the Angelus Blanchester members also activities for the chapter’s House for Developmentally South Dakota: Garretson, McCook Central focused their efforts inward 50th anniversary through Handicapped. In addition, when they started a Big window displays, a state fair members logged more than Texas: A&M Consolidated, Snyder, The Woodlands Brother and Big Sister booth and recognition of past 900 hours of service for the Mentoring Program, in which members at sporting events. Hernando County Washington: Colton, Yelm all first-year FFA members Through their efforts, the Cattlemen’s Rodeo, saving the Wisconsin: Lodi, Oconto Falls, were connected with a chapter chapter received positive organization money by setting Prairie Farm, Spencer, Waupaca, Weyauwega-Fremont officer or senior member. publicity in 32 articles about up bleachers, working conces- the chapter that appeared in sion stands and managing local, regional and state trash removal. The rodeo newspapers. donated the saved money to local youth programs.

52 Two Star Ripley Wisconsin: Barron, Beaver Dam, Big Alabama: Enterprise, Fort Payne, Foot, Bonduel, Cambridge, Chippewa Jacksonville Falls, Clear Lake, Cochrane-Fountain Arizona: Chino Valley, Gilbert, City, Fort Atkinson, Marshall, Parker, Peoria, Willcox, Yuma Montello, New Holstein, New California: Firebaugh, Norco Richmond, Randolph-Cambria- Friesland, Sauk Prairie, Stevens Point, Colorado: Delta, Flagler, Hotchkiss, Stratford, Waupun, Wauzeka, McClave, Merino Wittenberg-Birnamwood Connecticut: Lyman Hall, Suffield Wyoming: Bow River, Lyman, Pine Regional, Woodbury Bluffs, Powell Delaware: Smyrna, Sussex Central Florida: Armwood, Baker County Sr., Coral Reef, Cottondale, Crusaders, One Star Deltona Senior, Fort White Senior, Alabama: Brantley, Eufaula, Heritage Middle, Lafayette Jr., Geraldine, New Brockton, Randolph- Lafayette Sr., Marianna, New Smyrna Roanoke CTC Beach Middle, North Marion Sr., PHOTO BY KELLY ROGERS Arkansas: Melbourne, Ola, Prairie Okeechobee Brahman, Orlando Many outstanding chapters were honored with one, two and three star Grove, Searcy Colonial Senior, Santa Fe, Sebring ratings. Senior, South Lake Senior, Vanguard California: Dinuba, Fresno-Central, Sr., West Orange Sr. Minnesota: Alden-Conger, Battle Oklahoma: Achille, Adair, Altus, Hollister, Imperial, La Puente Valley Lake, Benson, Blue Earth Area, Amber-Pocasset, Arnett, Billings, ROP, Lemoore, Norte Vista, Quartz Georgia: Bainbridge, Coffee, Colquitt Buffalo Lake-Hector, Forest Lake, Calera, Canton, Claremore, Dickson, Hill, Riverside-La Sierra, Sacramento- County, Franklin County Middle, Howard Lake-Waverly-Winsted, Durant, Geary, Grove, Indianola, Florin Hutto Middle, Jeff Davis Middle Litchfield, Montevideo, New London Kiowa, Madill, Mooreland, Okemah, School, Screven County Florida: Clewiston, East Bay, Moore Spicer, New Ulm, Stillwater, Tracy Perry, Prague, Ripley, Strother, Vinita, Haven Hawaii: Leilehua Area, Winona, Zumbrota-Mazeppa Woodward Georgia: Berrien, Central of Carroll, Idaho: Castleford, Meridian, Midvale Mississippi: Carthage, Forest-Scott, Oregon: Dayton Jeff Davis, Miller County, Swainsboro, Lawrence County Illinois: Amboy, Ashton, Athens, Pennsylvania: Big Spring, Upson-Lee, West Laurens Bluford, Bushnell-Prairie City, Missouri: Ashland, Boonville, Brothersvalley, Cedar Crest, Cloister, Maine: Presque Isle Chicago Ag Sciences, Cissna Park, Bowling Green, Carthage, Centralia, Conococheague/James Buchanan, Eastland, Franklin Center, Highland, Clopton, Dadeville, El Dorado Cumberland Valley, Greenwood, Maryland: Easton Liberty, Marissa, Midland, Monticello, Springs, Eldon, Gallatin, Glasgow, Manor, Middleburg, Spud Growers, Mississippi: Alcorn Vocational Mt. Carroll, Olney, Paxton-Buckley- Logan-Rogersville, Maysville, Twin Valley Technical Center, Neshoba Central Loda, Payson, Pinckneyville, Meadville, Milan C-2, Miller, Monroe South Dakota: Elkton, Harrisburg, Roanoke-Benson, ROWVA, Sullivan, City R-1, North Shelby, Owensville, Nevada: Ruby Mountain, Silver Sage West Central Sycamore, Taylorville, Valmeyer, Salem, Salisbury, South Shelby, New Mexico: Hagerman Warsaw Strafford, Union, Warrenton, Willow Tennessee: Bradley Central, Dyersburg, East Robertson, Munford, North Carolina: Bartlett Yancey, Indiana: Adams Central, Carroll Fort Springs Portland, Riverside, White House Bunker Hill, Fairmont, Forest Hills, Wayne, Delphi, Eastbrook, Montana: Bainville, Big Timber, Hobbton, Lumberton, North Iredell, McCutcheon, Mt. Vernon, North Clarks Fork, Conrad, Flathead, Park, Texas: Alvarado, Alvin, Anderson- North Lenoir, Princeton, Purnell Newton, Rensselaer Central, South Shields Valley Shiro, Aubrey, Bonham, Burleson, Swett, Southern Guilford Adams, Southmont, Switzerland Calallen, Caney Creek, Cedar Park, Nebraska: Imperial, Lakeview, County, Tippecanoe Valley, Tri- Childress, Columbus, Crosby, Dayton, Pennsylvania: Danville, Hans Herr, Schuyler, Superior, Syracuse-Dunbar- County, Western Boone, Woodlan East Central, Gilmer, Grandview, Northern Lebanon Avoca, Wilbur-Clatonia Hallsville, Hamshire-Fannett, Iowa: Charles City, Colo-NESCO, South Carolina: Aiken, Belton New Jersey: Allentown, Penns Humble, Jacksboro, Katy, Kingwood, Glidden-Ralston, Indianola, Honea-Path, Crescent, Laurens, Loris, Grove, Warren Hills Regional Krum, Lampasas, Livingston, Maquoketa Valley, Mid-Prairie, North Manning, McBee Mansfield, Motley County, Navasota, Fayette, Osceola Big Chief, Rockwell- New Mexico: Artesia, House, Mesa Tennessee: Cosby, Covington, Normangee, Northwest, Pearland, Sheffield, Sibley-Ocheyedan, Tri-Star, Vista, Moriarty Crockett County, Jefferson County, Quanah, Robinson, Rockdale, Rusk, Vinton-Shellsburg, Waverly-Shell Johnson County, Lebanon, Lexington, New York: Medina, Pioneer Sheldon, Tidehaven, Waskom, Weimar Rock Loretto, McMinn, Mount Juliet, North Carolina: Cape Fear, Eastern Utah: North Summit, Spanish Fork, Kansas: Atwood, Buhler, Hillsboro, Powell Valley Randolph, Piedmont, Randleman, Uintah, Wasatch Jefferson West, Marysville, Mission South Rowan, Southern Nash, Sun Texas: Arlington, Axtell, Boerne, Valley, Norton, Riverton, Solomon, Valley, West Carteret Virginia: Beverley Manor Middle, Bowie-Austin, Brownsboro, Bryan, Southeast of Saline, Stockton, Buffalo Gap, Carroll County High, Cleburne, Coleman, Fairfield, North Dakota: Divide County, Winfield Central, Central Middle School, Garland, Greenville, Iola, Leander, Garrison, Kindred, Rugby, Turtle Christiansburg Middle, Edward W. Mary Carroll, McGregor, Midlothian, Kentucky: Breckinridge County, Lake-Mercer Caldwell County, East Carter, Wyatt, Essex, King William, Nelson Pilot Point, Sinton, Tom Bean, Jessamine County, Larue County, Ohio: Amanda-Clearcreek, Ansonia, Senior, Park View Middle School, Tomball Scott County, Taylor County, Wolfe Clyde, Crestview, Delphos, East Peter Muhlenberg, Randolph-Henry, Utah: Bear River, Morgan County Clinton, Elmwood, Fayetteville, Sherando, Signal Knob, Turner Ashby Greenville, Hardin Northern, Vermont: Bennington Louisiana: Bogalusa, Hathaway, Washington: Cathlamet, Chelan, Hillsboro, Lynchburg-Clay, Madison West Virginia: Ravenswood, Roane La.S.A.S., Mt. Hermon, North Evergreen, Franklin Pierce, Plains, Margaretta, Miami Trace, County, St. Marys, Tyler Goldendale, Grandview, Heritage, Central, Ponchatoula High, Ruston, Northeastern, Preble Shawnee, River Ritzville, Rochester, Wenatchee, Springfield, Welsh Valley, Talawanda, Tri-Village, Twin White River, Winlock, Zillah Michigan: Allegan County Tech & Ed Valley South Center, Bronson, Corunna, Sanilac West Virginia: Doddridge County,

53 Membership Recognition

The agricultural education model consists of three compo- nents: classroom, FFA and super- vised agricultural experience pro- gram (SAE). These components make agricultural education stand out. In order to receive the maximum benefit, students should be involved in all aspects of agricultural education. Several states have met that objective by having 100 percent FFA mem- bership for all students enrolled in agricultural education courses. States that have recorded 100 percent membership include California and Oklahoma. There are 29 states that are working toward this goal and have increased membership numbers. PHOTO BY WALES HUNTER A representative of the South Carolina FFA Association accepted a plaque recognizing the state’s growth in FFA membership over the past year.

100% Membership Membership Growth States States California Arizona North Carolina Oklahoma Arkansas Ohio California Oklahoma Connecticut Rhode Island Florida South Carolina Georgia Tennessee Hawaii Texas Illinois Utah Iowa Vermont Kansas Virgin Islands Kentucky Virginia Maryland Washington Missouri West Virginia New Mexico Wisconsin New York

54 VIP Citations

JANE BAGLEY has provided 10 years of Centennial Distinguished Ag Alumni contributions as an educator, Dr. Sabol service to support FFA. A rancher in Award – Clemson University, the South has received the Monsanto Agriculture Dimmit, Texas, Bagley’s primary roles Carolina Ag Educators Society Faculty Award and the California have been associated with national horse Distinguished Service Award and the Agriculture Teachers’ Association career development events (CDEs). South Carolina Honorary State FFA Teacher of Excellence Award. Through these CDEs, she has been an Degree. JOHN D. TODD is a man of devotion integral part of ensuring the success of CLARENCE PEARSON may be best and leadership. During the more than 40 students and upholding the events’ high known as a reformer. As a result of his years he has devoted to agricultural standards. role in the Washington State Commis- education and FFA, Dr. Todd has JAMES C. BOREL has been a key player sion on Student Learning, FFA and provided leadership to the agricultural in expanding the relationship between agricultural education became an integral teacher education program at the FFA/agricultural education and the part of the school reform process. Pearson, University of Tennessee, served as a board DuPont Company and its business of Oakville, Wash., has given that along member and president of the Tennessee subsidiaries. Now chairman of the board with several years of committed service to FFA Alumni Foundation and initiated of directors of CropLife America, Borel’s FFA and agricultural education. Other several successful fundraising programs to leadership and vision have led to major recognitions received by him include support statewide FFA events and gift contributions to support the New being named Teacher of the Year in 1981, activities. This professor emeritus from Century Farmer program and the “I Youth Leader of the Year in 1982 and Knoxville, Tenn., has other Believe in the Future” capital campaign. Daily World’s Citizen of the Year in 1985. accomplishments that include the This Wilmington, Del., resident has also He currently serves as president of the Overton Teaching Award and having a been on the National FFA Foundation Washington State FFA Foundation. scholarship established in his name at the Sponsors’ Board, served as president of University of Tennessee. BENNY RENICK of South Charleston, the Asia-Pacific Crop Protection W. Va., is a former FFA member who Association and performed as a board continues to play an important role for member for Griffin LLC, a DuPont agricultural education and FFA. Now venture. zone manager for Kroger Mid-Atlantic, MARTIN L. MITCHELL, now retired, Renick has involved Kroger in numerous has devoted 36 years to FFA and local junior livestock shows/fairs. In agricultural education. His service addition, he has been a business partner includes having been state FFA advisor with the West Virginia FFA, participated and agricultural education supervisor, an in the Governor’s Visioning Conference agriculture teacher, a member of the on Agricultural Education, provided National FFA Organization Board of processing equipment for local programs Directors and a trustee of the New and hosted state FFA officer teams during Hampshire FFA Foundation. Mitchell, of their business tours. Awards he has Dover, N. H., is responsible for having received include Honorary State and begun numerous agricultural education American FFA Degrees. programs at high schools and vocational JOHN W. ROSE of Hickman, Tenn., for centers throughout New Hampshire. several years has been a huge supporter of JOHN P. MUNDT of Boise, Idaho and FFA, financially, physically and professor emeritus, taught high school politically. Former co-owner of agriculture for 13 years, led as state FFA Transender Corporation, his financial supervisor for six years and instructed as support has made possible an executive professor of agricultural and extension director position for the Tennessee FFA education at the University of Idaho for Foundation, an endowment at Tennessee 16 years. His professional and academic Technological University for a state FFA service include roles with the Association officer each year and grants to FFA for Career and Technical Education alumni affiliates. His physical support Professional Development Committee, includes having served on the nominating PHOTO BY SAM HARREL the National FFA Board of Directors, the committee for state officers as well as on National Vocational Agriculture Teachers the Tennessee FFA Foundation Inc. board James C. Borel accepted a VIP Citation for his many years Association and the Agricultural Education of directors. In addition, he has served as of service to FFA. magazine. commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, president of JOHN W. PARRIS is currently the the Tennessee Alumni Council and a director of public affairs for the South WALTER E. UPTON, area supervisor political advocate for the restoration of Carolina FFA Association. More for agricultural education in Little Rock, Camp Clements, a state FFA camp. noteworthy is the fact that Parris has Ark., takes pride in having dedicated his indeed given a lifetime—67 years—to JOSEPH SABOL of San Luis Obispo, life to young people and agricultural South Carolina agricultural education. Calif., is a retired teacher educator. He education for more than 40 years. He is His service spans having been a classroom has fulfilled various academic roles. A an Arkansas Honorary State FFA Degree instructor to associate executive director former high school teacher, community recipient. Other accomplishments he has of the South Carolina Soil & Water college agriculture teacher and college to his honor include having served as the Conser-vation Commission to editorship dean, his service has extended beyond state FFA supervisor for Arkansas, having of AgriBiz. At each level of Parris’ career, America to Costa Rica, Pakistan, New been a National FFA Organization he has maintained direct connection with Mexico and Australia. In these countries, nominating committee coordinator and agricultural education and FFA by he has presented workshops on effective having served as an active member of the providing educational opportunities. teaching. In recognition of his National Association Supervisors of Some of his past honors include the outstanding achievements and Agricultural Education Inc.

55 Honorary American FFA Degree

The Honorary American FFA Degree is the highest honorary degree of the National FFA Organization. It honors teachers and other individuals who have given continuous service to FFA and are committed to advancing agricultural education. Because of their strong support, FFA is one of the nation’s elite youth organizations, impacting the lives of many students. Contributions from these supporters help FFA instill in students the time-honored legacies of premier leadership, personal growth and career success. Each of the 181 adults who received the award was honored on stage with a medal and certificate and recognized at an award ceremony.

Ellen Williams was recognized for her commitment to FFA and agricultural education. PHOTO BY SAM HARREL Alaska: Sam Harrel, Al Louisiana: Linda Bordelon, Oklahoma: Greg Ramsey, Brett Poindexter Lynda Danos Ramsey, Curtis Shumaker, Ken Arizona: Andrew Groseta, Mike Maryland: Clayton Lenhart, Starks, C. Waldner Olsen, Dave Perey Harold Roderuck, Oregon: Dennis Ettestad, Arkansas: Donald Brown, Alice Massachusetts: Eugene Clayton Fox, Loree Fox, Larry Eason, Robert Fitz, Gary Longfield, Jerome Myers GrosJacques, Greg Thompson Keathley, Bill Rue, J. Saldana Michigan: Douglas Darling, Pennsylvania: Steven Crawford, California: Jim Brabeck, Robert Jennifer Decker, Eddie Moore, Jo John Hall, Sheila Miller, Russell Dempel Pierce Redding, Wayne Zeigler Florida: Marty Bowen, Charles Minnesota: Guy Doud, Brant Rhode Island: Donald Kettle Bronson, Frankie Hall, William Groen, Steve Koziolek, Peter South Carolina: Gary "Nick" Nichols, Ron Neigebauer, Lyle Westrom, Alan Goodman, John Kelly, Jack Wetherington Willits Mercer, David Winkles, William Georgia: Randy Dill, Terry Mississippi: Timothy Chamblee, Witherspoon England, Teresa Hamlin, Connie Coker, Margaret Greer, Tennessee: Linda Byler, Maynard Iverson, Alan Powell Mary Ladner, Dixon Mills, Suzi Rhedona Rose Idaho: Anna Davis Phillips Texas: Gordon Davis, Steve Illinois: David Stille, Gary Missouri: Don Copenhaver, Johnson Taets, Nelson Thorp, Ron Daryl Oldvader, Thomas Payne, Virginia: Janet Bray, Benny Warfield Frederick Worman Guill, Stuart Moffett, David Indiana: Jim Armbruster, Lynn New Hampshire: James Shiflett Campbell, Janet Davies, Jan McConaha, Stephen Taylor Washington, D.C.: Kimberly Ferris, Melinda Findley, Rosalie New Jersey: John Hannum, Green, P. Smith Hunsinger, Frank Saldana, Ellen Deborah Pomroy-Moyer, Liz Wisconsin: Gary Connell, Williams Thompson Richard Daluge, Rodney Iowa: David Blecha, Tom Davis, New Mexico: Brian Moore, Jack Kittelsen Sonny Deke, Kenneth Larson Wiley Wyoming: Lesley Jeffres Kentucky: William (Bill) North Carolina: Joshua Bledsoe, Cherry, John Cotton, Peter Horace Johnson, Matthew Dreisbach, Larry Faue, Luther Keefer, Dave Zerfoss Hughes, Roy Hunt, Ron Peters, North Dakota: Anissa Wilhelm Mike Richey, Cara Sariscsany, Greg Webb

56 Agriculture Teacher National Alabama: Aubrey Barrow, Nebraska: Lynn Gloystein, Officer Parents Smiths Station Henderson/Bradshaw; Tim Cleve & Susan Clark Laughlin, Lawrence/Nelson Arizona: Dennis Bushong, Texas Gilbert New Mexico: Jerry Franklin, John & Laurie Gillespie Logan California: Kathy Bibby, Santa Texas Ynez Vly.; Michael Clifford, North Dakota: Brian Schneider, Jim & Joyce Hammerich Lompoc; Joe DiGrazia, Turlock; Napoleon California Don Dyer, El Capitan; Holly Everett & Mary Heinert Oklahoma: Bruce Akins, Egan, Lassen Union; Laura Goss, Wyoming Comanche; Abraham Warren, East Nicolaus; Gina Gravatt, Larry & Diane Jones Harrah Firebaugh; Ron King, Lemoore Kansas Union; Kenneth Martin, Placer; Oregon: Ted Tesconi, Redmond Eddie & Kay McKie Ralph Mendes, Foothill; Chad Georgia Pennsylvania: Michael Kennis, Mike & Lora Tyson Oilar, Cottonwood-West Valley; Clearfield James Polly, Mc Kinleyville; Kip Ohio Proctor, Tracy; Bobbi Roderick, South Carolina: James Ulmer, Carpinteria; Doug Sehnert, Elloree Fallbrook Union Tennessee: Harvey Burniston, Retiring National FFA Board Colorado: Rich Siegfried, Holly Johnson Co.; Mark Gregory, Peabody of Directors, Trustees and Georgia: Steve Bass, Colquitt Co.; Michael Turner, Harris Co.; Texas: Bobby Andrew, Valley Consultants Larry Williams, Dade Co. View; Joe Kaspar, Mary Carroll Gerald Brase Idaho: John Davis, Vallivue Virginia: Deborah Birge Barker, Jack Elliott Laurel Park; James Craddock, Kansas: Larry Goering, Chatham; Robert Walton, Horacio “Lacho” Garza Moundridge-Hesston Powhatan Voc Ctr. Patricia Natusch Michigan: Dale Johnson, Wisconsin: Roger Hooker, La Wexford-Missaukee Career Farge; Steven Zibell, Oregon Sr. Center; Robert Sollman, Sanilac Career Center Wyoming: Ty Berry, Frontier Montana: DuWayne Wilson, Wolf Point

Parents of Star Finalists Star in Agribusiness Star in Agriscience Indiana: Debbie & Doug DeSchepper California: Patty Esau & Scott Wohlgemuth Minnesota: Diane & Alan Zeithamer Minnesota: Patricia A. & Del W. Swanson Oklahoma: Susan & the late Jay Henricks South Dakota: Aileen & Gary Brunner Wisconsin: Annmarie & Edward Wolf Wisconsin: Carol Beyer-Makuski & Craig Beyer Star in Agricultural Star Farmer Placement Kansas: Mary & Kevin Holle California: Cecillia & John Parsons Minnesota: Jane & Larry Wellens Illinois: Dawn & Daniel St. Peters New Jersey: Diane F. & William N. Brooks Jr. Ohio: Cynthia & Ronald Hilton Oklahoma: Gayla & Chris Ledbetter Wisconsin: Karen & Roger Blaser

57 National FFA Alumni Convention PHOTO BY ED ZURGA Former members come together at the FFA Alumni convention to renew their commitment to the FFA mission.

After taking off their FFA jacket for the last time, many former members go on to suc- cessful careers—but their involvement in the FFA stays with them long after the blue corduroy is stored away, for FFA gives them skills and experi- ences to lead them through life and leaves a lasting impression in their hearts. Through the National FFA Alumni Association, former members and other supporters have the opportunity to give back to the organization that has given them so much, as they come together to ensure that the FFA legacy continues in future gen- erations. In conjunction with the 2003 National FFA Convention, the National FFA Alumni Association held its 31st con- PHOTO BY SAM HARREL Each state association submitted a basket containing items that represented their vention, themed “Doing state, FFA, and FFA alumni, in a contest sponsored by the National FFA Alumni Together What We Can’t Do association. The top three winning baskets were a hot item at Friday night’s auction. Alone.” During the convention, Oct. 29-31, the alumni organi- zation conducted its annual business session, elected the

58 2003-2004 national council and national president, Dale Beaty of Milton, Wisc., and hosted a silent auction to raise money to benefit FFA mem- bers through scholarships for the Washington Leadership Conference. An awards session was also held, recognizing this year’s Outstanding Achievement Award recipients: David Bishop of Ashland, Ohio; Raymond Cockrum of Guthrie, Okla.; and Patrick Igl of Antigo, Wisc. A live auction was held Friday evening, bringing in nearly $88,000. Items auctioned included a John Deere Gator 4x2, an E-Z-Go Yard Tractor

and a 2004 Chevy Silverado. PHOTO BY SAM HARREL Another big ticket item was a Members and guests took home some great items from the FFA Alumni cast-iron FFA emblem, weigh- Association’s silent auction, and benefited FFA members with WLC scholarships in ing 1,100 pounds and stand- the process. ing over six feet tall, donated by Southwest Graphix. In addition to WLC scholarships, auction proceeds go toward scholarships for future agricul- ture teachers and fund local chapters through grants. This year, the alumni awarded approximately $20,000 in grants to chapters across the country. The mission of the National FFA Alumni Association is to secure the promise of FFA and agricul- tural education by creating an environment where people and communities can develop their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success. PHOTO BY SAM HARREL The National FFA Alumni auction raised over $88,000 for WLC, collegiate and agriculture teacher scholarships. This Chevy truck was the big-ticket item of the event.

59 Foundation Sponsors

The National FFA Foundation plays an integral role in the success of FFA and agricultural education. For the 38th consecutive year, the foundation set a record level of support, raising $8,701,682. Through the support of its generous corporate and individual donors, more than $130 million has been raised to develop curriculum, fund programs and recognize members. Through the foundation’s contributions, FFA is able to offer a wide range of leadership and development opportunities for members and teachers while advancing agricultural education. With more than 1,700 sponsors, the foundation continues to invest in the future of FFA members, striving to make a difference in the lives of students.

Distinguished Service Citations The National FFA Bureau Federation Organization presented the for its immeasurable Distinguished Service Citation support of FFA and to three companies that have agricultural educa- spent years providing opportu- tion. nities for FFA members and Kroger Mid- agricultural education students Atlantic has been a to achieve success. long-time friend to Representatives from the the West Virginia California Farm Bureau FFA Association. Federation, Kroger Mid- Kroger is an annual Atlantic and PotashCorp sponsor of parlia- accepted the honor on behalf mentary procedure Bob Lane of John Deere, celebrating its 60th year of supporting FFA, presented a check to the National FFA

of their organizations during an CDE and national PHOTO BY SAM HARREL onstage ceremony held at the chapter awards for Foundation. 2003 National FFA West Virginia. In enabled the National FFA Convention. addition, Kroger Mid-Atlantic Organization to inspire, chal- The California Farm Bureau cooperates with several agricul- lenge and grow teachers within Federation in Sacramento, tural education departments to agricultural education through Calif., has been an incredible provide training sites for expe- our Agriscience Teacher of the supporter of and advocate for riential learning. The FFA mis- FFA and agricultural education. sion is to provide premier lead- Year award program. Potash’s Their commitment and vision ership and personal growth financial support also enabled has been consistently demon- opportunities for its youth. the National FFA Organization strated though their annual Kroger, as a result of its spon- to provide resources to sponsorship of career develop- sorships and scholarships, has enhance projects belonging to ment events, proficiency been a crucial partner in fulfill- the diversified agricultural pro- awards and scholarships at all ing that mission. Not only duction proficiency. We thank levels. The bureau’s dedication have financial resources and recognize PotashCorp for to developing talented and suc- enriched the learning and the excellence in FFA and cessful leaders has been clearly training opportunities of agri- agricultural education that has manifested by the training culture students, but also the been cultivated as a result of assistance and educational industry tours state FFA officer their relationship with us. resources it has provided to teams have taken with Kroger The Distinguished Service state FFA officers and other management. We celebrate Citation is the highest award agriculture students. The Kroger for the invaluable ways presented to an organization, bureau’s advocacy for FFA it has made a life-long differ- agency, business or other group through letter writing and ence in the lives of youth in by the National FFA phone calling campaigns was FFA and agricultural educa- Organization. A limited num- instrumental in uniting legisla- tion. ber of citations are awarded tors as well as the agricultural As a sponsor of the National annually. The award recognizes industry to support the FFA FFA Foundation, PotashCorp outstanding contributions delivery system in California. over the past 13 years has con- made to agricultural education We honor the California Farm tributed $314,000. This funding and FFA. 60 2005 Chairman-Elect Executive Council Dwight Armstrong, Ph.D. 15-25-35-50-60 2003 Chairman President & CEO Year Sponsors Gerald Brase North American Nutrition Companies Inc. Senior Vice President Merchandising Representing the Brands of Akey, SCA, Sunglo & Tractor Supply Company Vigortone 60 Year John Deere 2004 Chairman-Elect Past Chairman 2002 John Rakestraw James C. Borel** President & CEO President, DuPont Crop Protection 50 Year ContiBeef LLC DuPont Company Monsanto Pfizer Animal Health Sponsors’ Board Michael Jackson Chuck Roth** President President 35 Year Agri Business Group Inc. Farm Progress Companies Alan Ayers, Ph.D.* Blue Seal Feeds Inc. Director, State Affairs/Stewardship Thomas D. Larson Doug Scott Bayer CropScience Executive Vice President, Member Truck Group Marketing Manager, Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company Emmett Barker & Public Affairs Ford Division President CHS Ford Motor Company Emmett Barker and Associates Phillip McAdams Albert A. Smith Jr.* 25 Year Kathy Cornett President, Wrangler Western Wear Corporate Manager - Strategic Wrangler Projects Arnold B. Cordes Chairman Paul & Rita Day McCormick Company Dean Mefford* Toyota Motor Sales USA President Glenn Stith* Don Dye Company Incorporated Laurence M. Crane, Ph.D.* High Plains Journal Director, Education & Training Mefford Consulting Vice President, U.S. Branded National Crop Insurance Services Elin Miller Business McCormick Farms Monsanto Fred A. Nelson Beth Cross Vice President, Global Pest President/Owner Management Business Unit Bob Van Schoick Royster-Clark Inc. Ariat International Inc. Dow AgroSciences LLC Senior Director - Sales, Large Victor V. Voight Paul Mulhollem* Animal Products Tom Davis** Merial Ron & Chris Wilson Publisher President & COO Successful Farming Archer Daniels Midland Rick Van Genderen Company Director, Sales and Marketing 15 Year Douglas C. DeVries Matt Musselman Creativity Center Sr. Vice President, Worldwide BASF Joseph H. Alwan Mktg., Worldwide Agricultural Director, Feed Sales Emmett & Barbara Barker Land O'Lakes Farmland Feed Jack L. Warren, Jr. Equipment Division Bruner-Ivory Handle Company Deere & Company LLC Senior Manager, Dodge Truck Marketing Plans Cequent Consumer Products William C. Fleet* Ed Nicholson Director of Media & Community DaimlerChrysler Corporation and David M. Coffey Vice President, Noth America Dodge Trucks Cresline Plastic Pipe Co. Inc. Sales, Pioneer and Crop Protection Relations Sales & Marketing Tyson Foods Inc. Thomas G. West** Cross Manufacturing Inc. DuPont Agriculture & Nutrition Greg Nickerson Vice President Dairy Association Company Inc. President Pioneer Hi-Bred International Dee Zee Manufacturing Co. Dave Geiman* Inc. President Bader Rutter & Associates Inc. Jimmy Dillon New Dominion Farms Vince Palasota* R.M. "Mac" Whisner Farm Credit Leasing Services Vice President, Business Director of Truck Advertising & Mark Good Sales Promotions The Fox Foundation Director of Sales, West Region Development John T. Everett and Company Performance Awards Center Chevrolet Division, General New Holland North America Motors Corporation Kikkoman Foods Inc. J. Pearson Richard C. Hahn Alan D. Willits John H. May President & CEO President & CEO Carry-On Trailer Corporation Commercial Leader, Cargill McLaughlin Body Company Farmers National Company AgHorizons MetLife Foundation Carl J. Peters* Cargill, Incorporated Sharon G. Haines, Ph.D* Mid-States Wool Growers Director, Sustainable Forestry and Director of Training & Education The Lincoln Electric Company David R. Zerfoss** Cooperative Association Forest Policy President Jeff Moss International Paper Kerry Preete** Husqvarna Forest and Garden NC+ Hybrids Thomas J. Hedge Vice President, U.S. Branded Company Business Primedia Business Magazines and Area Vice President Operations - Media Central Monsanto Kraft Foods North America Inc. Keelan W. Pulliam** * new M. James Robertson ** retiring J. Glyndon Stuff Dirk Hejnal Group Head, Syngenta Professional President & CEO Products Dean K. Webster Westfalia*Surge Inc. Syngenta R. Lynn Wells E.C. "Murph" Henderson Jr. Gerald Puppe** Woodstream Corporation Senior Consultant - Feed Industry Vice President, Loss Adjustment & Homer J. Yokum AgriCapital Corporation Insurance Products Division National Crop Insurance Services Bill Howard Publisher Stephen L. Rhea Fastline Publications President & CEO Rhea and Kaiser Marketing Communications

61 FFA National Agricultural Career Show®

Approximately 50,000 FFA members, parents and advisors flooded the South Wing of the Kentucky Fair and Exposition Center during convention to take part in the FFA National Agricultural Career Show. More than 340 exhibitors, including representatives from universities and technical schools, military branches, organizations and commodity groups, supplied attendees with information on careers in agriculture. One of the biggest highlights

of the career show was the line- PHOTO BY SAM HARREL up of country music stars, The career show allowed students to explore a vast array of agricultural careers and including Terri Clark, Jo Dee post-secondary education programs. Messina and Joe Nichols, who were on hand to sign autographs for attendees. Another special exhibit was the FFA museum display, which celebrated the 75th anniversary of the organi- zation through historical docu- ments, photos and artifacts. The career show is also the site for the Hall of States—pro- viding the perfect location for delegates to learn about agricul- ture in other areas, as well as gather signatures from represen- tatives of 47 associations. PHOTO BY SAM HARREL Over 340 exhibitors shared information with students about opportunities within the agriculture field.

Hall of States

Alabama Association Louisiana Association Oregon Association Alaska Association Maryland Association Pennsylvania Association Arizona Association Massachusetts Association Puerto Rico Association Arkansas Association Michigan Association Rhode Island Association California Association Minnesota Association South Carolina Association Connecticut Association Mississippi Association South Dakota Association Delaware Association Missouri Association Tennessee Association Florida Association Montana Association Texas Association Georgia Association Nebraska Association Utah Association Hawaii Association New Hampshire Association Vermont Association Idaho Association New Jersey Association Virginia Association Illinois Association New Mexico Association Washington Association Indiana Association New York Association West Virginia Association Iowa Association North Carolina Association Wisconsin Association Kansas Association North Dakota Association Wyoming Association Kentucky Association Ohio Association

62 Exhibitors

AGCO Fastline Publications National 4-H Council SUNY Cobleskill AgEdNet.com Fellowship of Christian Farmers International National AgrAbility Project and Easter Seals Superior Growers Supply Agricultural Consortium of Texas Ferrum College National Antique Tractor Pullers Association Tendersticks L.L.C. Agricultural Marketing Resource Ctr. Firestone Agricultural Tire Company National Association of Agricultural Educators Tennessee Association Hall of States Exhibitor AgriScience Institute - DuPont Classroom Florida A&M Ð Tallahassee (NAAE) Texas Association Hall of States Exhibitor AgriScience Institute - Texas Instruments Florida Association Hall of States Exhibitor National Association of Farm Broadcasters Texas Instruments Classroom Florida Farm Bureau Marketing Division National Bison Association Texas State Technical College AgriScience Institute - Veterinary Science Inst. Florida Fruit Association Inc. National Children's Center for Rural Ag Health & The American Phytopathological Society Mat. Classroom Ford Trucks Built Ford Tough Safety The Davey Tree Expert Company AgriTechZone by Questech Inc. Friends Inc. National Cutting Horse Association The Fraternity of Alpha Zeta Agrowknowledge Garst Seed Co. National Education Center for Agricultural Safety The Humane Society of the United States Akey/Sunglo GBC Customized Calendars National FFA Agriscience Fair The Ohio State University Alabama Association Hall of States Exhibitor Georgia Agriculture and Ag Education National FFA Agriscience Student Award The Ohio State University Dept. of Food, Ag. & Alaska Association Hall of States Exhibitor Consortium Program Displays Biol. Engr. Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity Georgia Boot National FFA Alumni Association The Ohio State University School of Natural Res. American Angus Association Golf Course Superintendents Association of National FFA History Display The Pennsylvania State University American Association for Lab Animal Science America National FFA Organization Education Programs The University of Maine (AALAS) Grad Break Escape National Grange Toyota American Association for Vocational Instructional Graduate Study at Purdue University National High School Rodeo Association Big Brothers/Big Sisters of America Materials (AAVIM) Greater Louisville Inc., The Metro Chamber of National Junior Swine Association The Nature Conservancy American Dairy Goat Association Commerce National Pork Board Freedom’s Answer American Farm Bureau Federation Hanson Aggregates Midwest Inc. National Reining Horse Association The National Arbor Day Foundation American National Cattlewomen National Beef Hawaii Association Hall of States Exhibitor National Rifle Association of America Tractor Supply Company Ambassador Program Hawkeye Community College National Shooting Sports Foundation Tulsa Welding School American Paint Horse Association Hobar Publications/Finney Company National Tractor Pullers Championships Tyson Foods Inc. American Quarter Horse Youth Association Hobart Welders National Wild Turkey Federation U.S. Air Force Recruiting Service American Shorthorn Association Hormel Foods Corporation Nebraska Association Hall of States Exhibitor U.S. Army Recruiting Command American Simmental Association Hummert International Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture U. S. Environmental Protection Agency American Tractor Pullers Association Husqvarna Nebraska Consortium U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service American Veterinary Medical Association Idaho Association Hall of States Exhibitor Nestle Purina Pet Care Company U.S. Marine Corps Animal Agriculture Alliance Illinois Agricultural Universities New Hampshire Association Hall of States U.S. Navy Recruiting Command Animal Health Publication Illinois Association Hall of States Exhibitor Exhibitor U.S. Rubber Reclaiming Animal Place Illinois Central College New Jersey Association Hall of States Exhibitor Unity College Applied Technologies Indiana Association Hall of States Exhibitor New Mexico Association Hall of States Exhibitor University of Alaska Fairbanks - SALRM Aquacenter Inc. Indiana Soy Products New York Association Hall of States Exhibitor University of Arkansas Aquatic Eco Systems Ingersoll Rand/Bobcat/Club Car North American Limousin Foundation University of California - Davis Archer Daniels Midland Co. Instructional Materials Lab University of Missouri North American Salt Co. University of Delaware, Agricultural and Arkansas Association Hall of States Exhibitor Instructional Materials Service Texas A&M North Carolina A & T State University Technical Education Atlas Greenhouse Systems University North Carolina Association Hall of States University of Delaware College of Agriculture & Auburn University International Greenhouse Company Exhibitor Natural Resources Bekaert Wire International Truck and Engine Corp. North Carolina State University University of Florida Berne Apparel Iowa Association Hall of States Exhibitor North Dakota Association Hall of States University of Illinois - ITCS Instructional Material Black Hawk College Iowa FFA Foundation Inc. Exhibitor University of Kentucky Blue Freedom Farm Market Iowa State University College of Agriculture North Dakota State College of Science University of Kentucky Distance Learning Boone FFA Iowa State University - Horticulture Dept. North Dakota State University Programs Breaking New Ground Iowa Western Livestock Judging Contest Northeast Iowa Community College University of Minnesota Twin Cities Briggs & Stratton Corporation Jobhog.net Northerner Boots University of Missouri Columbia, College of Ag., Burley Tobacco Growers John Deere Northwest Missouri State University Food & Natural Res. BWI Companies Inc. Johnson and Wales University Ohio Agricultural Technical Institute University of Missouri-Columbia, College of California Association Hall of States Exhibitor Joliet Junior College Ohio Curriculum Materials Service Veterinary Medicine California Polytechnic State University Justin Boot Company Oklahoma Curriculum & Instructional Materials University of New Hampshire Carhartt Inc. Kansas Association Hall of States Exhibitor Center University of Northwestern Ohio CARQUEST Corporation Kansas State University Oklahoma Panhandle State University University of Tennessee - Knoxville Case IH Kentucky Association Hall of States Exhibitor Oklahoma State University University of Tennessee - Martin Caterpillar - Think Big Kentucky Department of Agriculture Oklahoma State University - HEVI University of Wisconsin - Madison Cave City Tourist & Convention Center Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance Companies Oregon State University University of Wisconsin - River Falls Ceres International Women's Fraternity Kentucky Soybean Association Owens Community College USDA Agricultural Research Service - CEV Multimedia Kentucky State University Pat Mooney Co. - The Saw Company Information Staff Chevron Texaco Keystone Steel & Wire Company Pee Jay's Fresh Fruit USDA Cooperative State Research, Education and Extension Service Chevy Trucks Kosair Charities Pennsylvania Association Hall of States Exhibitor USDA Economic Research Service Christian Kropf Inc. Kraft Foods Prentice Hall - Interstate Publishers Inc. USDA Farm Service Agency CHS Lake Land College Preston Farms Popcorn Company USDA Foreign Agricultural Service Clemson University Land Grants of the Palouse Progressive Agriculture Foundation USDA Marketing and Regulatory Programs CMA Publications Inc. Land O'Lakes Project Food, Land & People Recruitment College of the Ozarks Langdon Barber Groves Inc. Puerto Rico Association Hall of States Exhibitor USDA National Agricultural Statistics Colorado State University Purdue University Lehi Valley Trading Co. Service/CENSUS Colorado State University Masters of Agriculture Purdue University Agronomy Department Lexington Convention & Visitors Bureau USDA National Animal Disease Center - Integrated Resource Management Ranger Boats Lincoln Electric Company USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service Connecticut Association Hall of States Exhibitor RFD-TV Lincoln University USDA Risk Management Agency Cornell University Rhode Island Association Hall of States Exhibitor Linn State Technical College USDA Rural Business-Cooperative Service Crosman Airguns Rimol Greenhouse Systems Inc. Louisiana Association Hall of States Exhibitor Utah Association Hall of States Exhibitor Cummins Inc. Roper Apparel and Footware Louisiana State University Venturing Division, Boy Scouts of America Dee Zee Manufacturing Rose Acre Farms Inc. Ludy Greenhouse Manufacturers Vermont Association Hall of States Exhibitor Delaware Association Hall of States Exhibitor Rotary International District 6710 Maple Grove Distributing Inc. Vidalia Sweet Onions for Education Program Delaware State University Safari Club International Foundation Maryland Association Hall of States Exhibitor Virginia Association Hall of States Exhibitor Delaware Valley College San Joaquin Delta College Mason County Fiscal Court Virginia Tech, Agricultural and Extension Delmar Learning Shaffer's Goldrush Massachusetts Association Hall of States Education Depco Inc. Sigma Alpha Sorority Exhibitor Visual Impact Imaging Diversified Fund Raisers Inc. Society of American Florists Michelin North America Ward's Natural Science Dodge Division and Daimler-Chrysler Society of American Foresters Michigan Association Hall of States Exhibitor Washington Association Hall of States Exhibitor Corporation Fund South Carolina Association Hall of States Michigan State University West Virginia Association Hall of States Exhibitor Dordt College Exhibitor Mississippi Association Hall of States Exhibitor West Virginia University Dow AgroSciences Mississippi State University South Dakota Association Hall of States Exhibitor Western Kentucky University DuPont Missouri Association Hall of States Exhibitor South Dakota State University Winchester Ammunition-Olin Corporation Durango Boot Missouri Fox Trotting Horse Breed Association South Georgia Technical College Wisconsin Association Hall of States Exhibitor Eastern Kentucky University Missouri Welding Institute Southern Arkansas University WIX Filters Products Division of Dana Eastern New Mexico University Moltan Company Southern Heritage Fundraising Corporation Empire Southwest Monsanto Company SouthWest Graphix Wrangler Equine Industry Program/University of Louisville Montana Association Hall of States Exhibitor Southwest Missouri State University - Collegiate WWW.HORSECOURSEONLINE.COM - Austin Exotic Hibiscus Morehead State University FFA Education Center Facilitating Coordination in Agricultural Education Morton Salt Sports Turf Managers' Association Wyoming Association Hall of States Exhibitor (FCAE) MTD Products Inc./Cub Cadet St. Louis Community College WyoTech Farm Safety 4 Just Kids Murray State University Stihl Inc. Yavapai College - Agribusiness Farmers for Christ, International NAPA Auto Parts Stone Manufacturing & Supply Company Zeecraft Tech. FarmHouse Fraternity Nashville Auto-Diesel College Stuppy Greenhouse Manufacturing Company 63 Courtesy Corps

A dedication to true service made up the heart of the 2003 National FFA Convention courtesy corps. FFA members and advisors from all over the coun- try volunteered their time and effort to assist con- vention staff in a variety of activities. From helping out in the awards office to securing the doors, cour- tesy corps was a vital part of behind-the-scenes work. The experience of serving proved to be worth- while for many members. “The courtesy corps makes you feel like you’re part of the FFA—like you actually did something and got involved,” said Brittany Harrington of the Bucklin FFA Chapter in Missouri. FFA thanks those who participated in the cour- tesy corps. Each volunteer helped make national convention a success. PHOTO BY WALES HUNTER From ushering members to their seats in the arena to stuffing envelopes, Courtesy Corps members are the embodiment of “living to serve.”

Alabama: Marbury FFA Kansas: Goessel FFA, Neodesha Central Career Center FFA, Texas: Academy FFA, Aledo Arizona: Mesquite FFA FFA North Daviess FFA, Smithville FFA, Athens FFA, Aubrey FFA, FFA, Union FFA, Verona FFA, Bellaire FFA, Bland FFA, Arkansas: England FFA Kentucky: Apollo FFA, Butler County FFA, John Hardin FFA, Walnut Grove Bremond FFA, Bridgeport FFA, California: McFarland FFA LaRue County FFA, Lincoln Nebraska: Blair FFA, Bloomfield Bryan FFA, Chico FFA, Columbus FFA, Crowley FFA, Colorado: Brighton FFA County FFA, Mason County FFA, Broken Bow FFA, Fillmore High School FFA, Nelson Central FFA, Hartington FFA, Decatur FFA, Duncanville FFA, Connecticut: Lyman Hall FFA, County FFA, Nicholas County Pawnee City FFA Era FFA, Franklin FFA, Freer Mattabeset FFA, Trumbull FFA, Ryle FFA FFA, Goldthwaite FFA, Regional FFA New Jersey: Warren Hills FFA Greenville FFA, Hartley FFA, Louisiana: Bogalusa High New Mexico: Las Cruces FFA Huntsville FFA, Kirbyville FFA, Delaware: Caesar Rodney FFA, School FFA, Fifth Ward Junior Lone Oak FFA, Madisonville Lake Forest FFA FFA, Franklinton FFA, Jena New York: Letchworth FFA FFA, Mansfield FFA, Mt. Florida: Auburndale Sr. High High FFA, Loranger High FFA, North Dakota: Beulah FFA, Pleasant FFA, Palacios FFA, FFA, Bartow Middle FFA, Mount Hermon FFA, Pearl River Carson FFA, Kenmare FFA, Plano East Senior High FFA, Brooksville Sr. FFA, Haines City FFA, Pine High School FFA, Larimore JE Eastgate FFA Quinlan FFA, Roscoe FFA, Sam Sr. FFA, J.M. Tate Senior FFA, Raceland Middle FFA Rayburn FFA, Snyder FFA, Ohio: Edgewood FFA, Fort Frye Kennedy FFA, Lake Butler FFA, Maine: Ashland FFA Tuloso-Midway FFA, Weimar Lake Gibson Senior FFA, FFA, Lakota FFA, Morgan FFA, FFA, Yoakum FFA Maryland: Gaithersburg FFA New Lexington FFA, Pickaway- Lakeland FFA, Lakewood Ranch Virginia: Blacksburg High FFA, New Smyrna Beach FFA, Ross FFA, Ross FFA, Talawanda Massachusetts: Essex Chapter FFA, Warren FFA/Ohio District School FFA, Essex FFA, Signal Northview FFA, Southeast FFA Knobb Middle FFA Manatee FFA 10 Officers, Wauseon FFA, Michigan: Unionville Sebewaing Waynesfield-Goshen FFA Washington: Evergreen FFA, Georgia: Etowah High School Area FFA Oklahoma: Altus FFA, Elk City Ferris FFA, Moses Lake FFA, FFA, Lowndes FFA, Oconee Mountain View FFA, Reardan County FFA Minnesota: Dassel Cokato FFA, FFA, Jenks FFA, Tecumseh FFA Sibley East FFA, Southwest Star FFA Idaho: Kendrick FFA Oregon: Helix FFA, Perrydale Concept High School FFA, FFA Wisconsin:Wauzeka FFA Illinois: Chicago Ag Sciences Stillwater FFA Pennsylvania: Big Spring FFA, Wyoming: Chief Washakie FFA FFA, Georgetown-Ridge Farm Mississippi: Weir FFA FFA, Liberty FFA, Minooka FFA Cumberland Valley FFA Missouri: Belle FFA, Bucklin South Carolina: Edisto FFA Indiana: Indian Creek FFA, FFA, Carl Junction FFA, North Newton FFA, Rossville Dadeville FFA, Galena FFA, South Dakota: Centerville FFA, FFA, South Ripley FFA, Gallatin FFA, Greenfield FFA, Florence FFA, Gettysburg FFA, Woodlan FFA Hamilton FFA, Hermann FFA, Newell FFA Iowa: Akron-Westfield FFA, Higginsville FFA, Koshkonong Tennessee: Bolivar Central Cascade FFA, DeWitt Central FFA, Linn Co. R-1 FFA, FFA, Hendersonville FFA, Mark FFA, Fairfield FFA, Louisa- Mansfield FFA, Meadville FFA, Twain FFA Muscatine FFA Mount Vernon FFA, North 64 Official Delegates PHOTO BY SAM HARREL Delegates shared their ideas for the betterment of the organization at a business session in Freedom Hall.

Taking a lesson from Issues considered this year Meghan Barker, Breanna Bell, Mohandas Gandhi, who once included the size of the national Kimberley Bennett, Kelly Bishop, said, “You must be the change officer team, the selection Kelsey Blagg, Tyler Blagg, Nicole you wish to see in the world,” a process of the national officer Borges, Thomas Bottoms, Megan group of FFA members from nominating committee and mid- Brownell, Jazmyn Chandler, across the nation arrived early dle school student participation Phillip Chism, Amber Cleaver, the week of convention to take in CDEs. Carrie Crane, Kristy Crow, Beth part in delegate committees. In Cundiff, Sumiko DeLa Vega, a format similar to that of our Alabama: Matt Barton, Hannah Audrey Denney, Mark Diener, nation’s Congressional hearings, Beam, Brittany Beasley, David Anne Marie Diener, Bryan 475 students served on commit- Bryant, Ashleigh Butts, Cody Dodson, Brian Fiorini, Erica tees to evaluate suggested Eiland, Whitney Griffin, Jennifer Flores, Kelly Forsythe, Carey changes to the organization’s Himburg, Alex Popwell, Joanna Galliani, Lisa Hammerich, Erik policies, which were compiled at Stewart, Margaret Trione Holland, Sarah Hubbart, Andrea the State Presidents’ Jue, Alex Lopez, Megan Marques, Conference in Washington, Alaska: Brad Hayes, Jessica Nolin Kyle McCullough, Kristen Mejia, D.C., in July. Arizona: Jerrod Alcaida, Anna Hallie Muller, Cody Penfold, The process begins as delegates Marie Groseta, Malorie Lewis, Jimmy Pierce, Domenica are divided into their respective Josh Morgan, Richard Sivils Prestininzi, Nicolina Prestininzi, committees, where they listen to Katie Robertson, Colette Rose, testimonies and review provided Arkansas: Jason Clenney, Natalie Ryan, Ashley Smith, information, as well as discuss Monica Coker, Cody Comeaux, Katy Teixeira, Erin VanPeer, their own findings with the Corey Davis, Nikki Evans, Joe Lindsay Walsh, Janelle Williams group. From this, a committee Garner, Miranda Haywood, recommendation is formed and Jessica Hickmott, Tim Lewis, Colorado: Melanie Calderwood, submitted to the entire delega- Bryan Powell, Casey Simpson, Anthony Mengel, B.J. New, tion for a vote. These delegate Shellie Umphries, Allisyn Linsey Pollart, Benjamin Weber recommendations are then for- Woodrow, Bobby Yarbrough Connecticut: Missy Chick, Gina warded to the National FFA California: Kourtney Aboudara, Gambino, Stephen Russell, Fred Board of Directors, who will Mark Aguiar, Nicole Amaral, Scoville review them in January 2004.

65 Delaware: Krissy Keeler, Indiana: Amber Ebbert, Jessica Montana: Branden Braaten, Jonathan Snow, Mollie Geisler, Timothy Green, Shane Amanda Cloud, Patrick Stevenson Hageman, Micah Haltom, Mikki Hackley, Halsey Wallace Marshall, Michael McDaniel, Florida: Kelly Aue, Laura Nebraska: Ryan Becker, Jill Jennifer Shepard, Jill Steiner Fowler, Aaron Giorgi, Melissa Klepper, Beau Klug, Miranda Hinton, Amy Keyser, Kristine Iowa: Derek Balk, Kally Koepke, Megan McElfresh, Lally, Stephanie Mack, Kelvin Boehmer, Danny Dreher, Kyle Becky Small, Adam Wollenburg Moreno, Stacy Revels, Justin Maas, Jenna Maubach, Alana Nevada: Casey Bieroth, Rachel Sharpless, Jordan Sims, Kristina McNutt, Betsy Ratashak, Sheena Gattuso, Lauren Landa Sims, Gina Watters Spurgin, Aric Yaw New Hampshire: Carrie Georgia: Charity Brown, Kansas: Clint Blaes, Clint Bryant, Audrey Collins, Shelby Corbett, Bascom, Joe Meallo, Melanie Melissa Hildebrand, Lucas Maddy, Sanborn Brian Elrick, Justin Grimsley, Emily Schmeidler, Justine Sterling Dathan Harbert, Hope Hatcher, New Jersey: Cynthia Anthes, Alex Hicks, Michael Maw, Kentucky: Eric Adams, Coty Catherine E. Bell, Jenelle P. Ransom McArthur, Rachael Back, Justin Bailey, Katie Clark, Montilone, Jennifer Wilson McCall, Nathan McLeod, Katie Molly Fields, Brian Hopkins, Murray, Rodney Redd, Jenna Hougen, Adam Johnson, New Mexico: Mia Armstrong, Constance Saxon, Ashley Josh McCubbins, Sara Riggs, Tessie Emond, Ginger Goodan, Seamon, Cathy Strickland, Cliff Tonya Sexton, Drew White, Rachel Lueras, Ashley Riley Tippens, Candace Williams, Lindsay Williams New York: Dustin Bliss, Amanda Zittrouer Louisiana: Matthew Babcock, Miranda Clayson, Sarah Hinz, Morgan Bertrand, Blake Brignac, Amanda Koszewski, Michael Josh Dahlem, C.C. DuBois, Sidoti Jordan Guice, Karli Mizell, Ashley North Carolina: Taylor Best, Passman, Veronica Penalber, Cory Neil Correll, Isaac Davenport, Smith Holly Deal, Camber Howard, Maine: Jeffrey Blackstone, Daniel Locklear, Caroline Long, Micaela Hotham Jade Love, Ted Clayton, William Pence, Jason Thornton, Lendy Maryland: Chris Brosch, Daniell Yeaman, Ashley Yopp Holter, Jeanna Prather North Dakota: Ryan Hauck, Massachusetts: Tiesha Adam Little, Amy Nolan, Hernandez, Danielle Poirier, Ashley Vangsness, Riston Zielke Timothy Roy Ohio: Whitney Beck, Lindsey Michigan: Seth Earl, Jason Jaekel, Calhoun, Ryan Curtis, Mike Katie Marchal, Ryan McBride, Derringer, Pete Dinius, Rose Ryan Peterson, Michael Sheridan

PHOTO BY SAM HARREL Dudgeon, Todd Endsley, Becky Delegates debated many important issues in committee Minnesota: Krystal Anderson, Gibbs, Trisha Kick, Jeremiah meetings. Luke Becker, Ken Deal, Megan Logsdon, Andrea Maurer, Ben Kappers, Mary LaValla, Dawn Stoller, Dan Wendt, Cassie Hawaii: Jackie Akuna, Danielle Luhmann, Kristin Rieman, Eric Yantis, Abby Yochum Morris Sawatzke, Kristyna Schultz Oklahoma: Kelly Barnes, Travis Idaho: Jason Fellows, Katie Mississippi: Dana Barber, John Jett, Dallas Krout, Amber Rose, Jenkins, John Meyers, Trent Van Adam Greenlee, Kristy Mayo, Tallie Stewart, Chase Turner, Shanelle White Lueven, Matt Woodington Daniel Moore, Cory Smith Oregon: Shannon Berrett, Tyler Illinois: Kacy Baugher, Rachel Missouri: Casey Blevins, Nicki Bradley, Dan Corn, Seth Klann, Baum, Kirk Builta, Rich Busdieker, Brook Carder, Jess Anna Sheperd Chapple, Brian Dallam, Cliff Cheever, Gina Eckler, Blake Dolbeare, Jeffrey Evers, Bruce Harper, Chase Holcumbrink, Pennsylvania: Amber Frank, Frank, Kristina Gerber, Becky Ryun Morris, Sara Muri, Heather Laura Grove, Becky Hedges, Littlefield, Maurey Peterson, Shauck, Marin Summers, Rachel Amy Kaucher, Jason Klouser, Ryan Robinson, Jaye Snyder, Whitener, Brian Worthington, Brian Oberholtzer, Eric Wade Vangilder, Stephanie Witt Allison Yarnell Rubenstein, Heather Sisto

66 Puerto Rico: Karlai Acevedo, Idalys Reyes, Warys Zayas Rhode Island: Shane Jacques, Joe Procopio South Carolina: Alex D. Gleason, Lauren Holden, John A. Lesaine, Bryan W. Lowman, Rachel McLeod, Christopher Moss, Allison Waggoner South Dakota: Chelsea Budde, Shane Deranleau, Jess Geib, Jesse Larson, Crystal Nielson Tenessee: Ashley Baker, Adam Carlton, David Erwin, Mark King, Laura McCrary, Rachel Paschall, Leann Quinn, Daniel Rogers, Allie Shrum, Chris

Vessell, Chelsey Warfield, Tyler PHOTO BY SAM HARREL Wilson Members had opportunities to speak their minds at delegate hearings. Texas: Grant Alkire, Kyle Anderson, Matt Anderson, Sarah Barron, Eric Bitner, Dyllan Bryant, Courtney Bullock, Katherine Byrd, Jessica Carter, Chase Cockerell, Monica Cordova, Brian Corley, Chris Cumby, Blaze Currie, Lacy Davidson, LaRenda Douglas, Nick Dow, Heather Evans, Kati Gilliam, Nick Gonzales, Blaine Gwinn, Aaron Henderson, Jessica Housley, Justin Johnson, Jerod Justice, Tyler Koch, Monty Middleton, Stephanie Miles, Megan Mitchell, Zac Morris, Kelly Murdock, Travis Orms, J.P. Parkerson, Scotty Pearson, Kyle D. Pinkerton, Ansen Pond, Tobin Redwine, Ashley Sawyer,

Kyle Shipley, Erin Smith, PHOTO BY SAM HARREL Samantha Srp, Joe Stan, Travis Delegates listened carefully one another’s input, in order to make informed decisions. Sullivan, Kellie Swanberg, Brandi Taylor-Christ, Matthew Townsend, Wil Wiederhold, Keagy, Mike Langford, Ed Wisconsin: Steve Boe, Keith Jason Wilhelm, Kayla Williams, McCann, Greg Osborne, Josh Christen, Julie Felix, Adam Justin Yancey Stephens, Virginia Watson Freis, Jamie Hagenow, Angie Kringle, Kevin Larsen, Christine Utah: Tiffany Clegg, Bill Washington: Eric Dobbins, Lepple, Kim Miller, Jackie Munns, Todd Kelly, Tanya Laura Kowalkowski, Candice Mundt, Chris Ritscher, Alexis Vanderstappen, Cash Williams Kurka, Anne Meyer, Randi Schank, Matthew Schleusner, Nickels, Joe Patterson, Stacy Vermont: Renee Audet, Patrick Nicole Schmidt, Kayla Woolever Pickett, Ben Tucker Deering Wyoming: Tara Bolgiano, Josh West Virginia: Lacy Kimble, Virgin Islands: Emily Clark Cooper, Bryttni Westlake Brent McClung, Sidney Phelps, Virginia: Lindsay Charity, Eliot Ashby Ruddle, Amber Taylor, Daniels, Cindy Green, Heather Amy VanCamp 67 Committee Reports Issue Committee: Size of the National Officer Team

Matt Barton, AL Whereas, Public Law 105-225, our national charter, could be adversely Alex Popwell, AL affected. Malorie Lewis, AZ Whereas, additional officers would require an increase in the national officer Tim Lewis, AR budget. Meghan Barker, CA Thomas Bottoms, CA Whereas, the selection process of additional officers is ambiguous Carrie Crane, CA Audrey Denney, CA The following support leads this committee to believe these recommendations Erica Flores, CA are needed: Kelly Forsythe, CA Hallie Muller, CA The charter could be altered in any way Congress sees fit; therefore, it could be Missy Chick, CT dispelled if desired. Mollie Stevenson, DE With the increase of the national officer team, the budget could be increased, which Aaron Giorgi, FL in turn would take away funds from other ventures of the National FFA Organization. Stacy Revels, FL Charity Brown, GA Increasing the size of the national officer team would lead to further questions, i.e., Rachael McCall, GA alignment, charter, positions. Jason Fellows, ID Kacy Baugher, IL Respectfully submitted on this 29th day of October by: Brian Dallam, IL Committee Chair: Karli Mizell, LA Amber Ebbert, IN Committee Vice Chair: Pat Deering, VT; Cliff Tippens, GA Micah Haltom, IN Kally Boehmer, IA Committee Secretary: Joe Patterson, WA; Justine Sterling, KS Katie Clark, KY Committee Sentinels: Ben Weber, CO; Abby Yochum, OH Ryan McBride, MI Megan Kappers, MN Discussion Chairs: Kristy Mayo, MS Alex Gleason, SC Brian Worthington, MO Eric Rubenstein, PA Lauren Landa, NV Sara Riggs, KY Mia Armstrong, NM Isaac Davenport, NC Kelly Barnes, OK Camber Howard, NC Garret Hylton, NV Dan Wendt, OH Jessica Hickmott, AR Seth Klann, OR Dustin Bliss, NY Chelsea Budde, SD Daniel Rogers, TN Chelsey Warfield, TN Kyle Anderson, TX Jessica Carter, TX Blaine Gwinn, TX Aaron Henderson, TX Megan Mitchell, TX Brandie Taylor-Christie, TX Justin Yancey, TX Tanya Vanderstappen, UT Mike Langford, VA Sidney Phelps, WV Keith Christen, WI Kim Miller, WI Matthew Scheusner, WI Josh Cooper, WY PHOTO BY WALES HUNTER Bonded by the realization of a common goal, the newly elected national officers joined together.

68 Committee Reports Issue Committee: Selection of the National Officer Nominating Committee

Lacy Kimble, WV Whereas, it was recommended to Todd Endsley, OH add a policy to not allow national Stephanie Miles, TX officer nominating committee Jimmy Pierce, CA members to be selected from the six Chris Moss, SC Anne Meyer, WA states currently represented by Travis Jett, OK national FFA officers. Ashley Smith, CA Whereas, it was recommended to Heather Shauck, MO add a policy to not allow a person who Cory Smith, LA has served on the national Cathy Strickland, GA nominating committee to run for Jason Wilhelm, TX national office. Lindsey Williams, KY Tyler Wilson, TN Derek Balk, IA Be it resolved that the National FFA Neil Correll, NC Delegate Committee on Selection of Ken Deal, MN the National Officer Nominating Margaret Trione, AL Committee recommends the PHOTO BY KELLY ROGERS Kevin Larsen, WI following: Katie Murray, GA Laura Grove, PA That there be no change to the current procedure. Rich Chapple, IL Lisa Hammerich, CA That the National FFA Board of Directors direct the national staff to further Ashton Caves, MS research strategies on the diversification of the selection of the nominating Cash Williams, UT committee members. Ashley Sawyer, TX Katy Teixeira, CA Respectfully submitted on this 29th day of October by: Bruce Frank, IL Committee Chair: Ryan Robinson, IL Tessie Edmond, NM Committee Vice Chair: Cody Comeaux, AR Brian Elarick, GA Committee Secretary: Anna Groseta, AZ Seth Earl, MI 2nd Vice Chair: Matt Babcok, LA Eliot Daniels, VA Nick Dow, TX Secretary: Jordan Sims, FL Nicole Schmidt, WI Sentinels: Brad Hayes, AK; Idalys Reyes, PR Ashley Vangsness, ND Melanie Calderwood, CO Discussion Leaders: Ashley Yopp, NC Jessie Geib, SD Mikki Marshall, IN Casey Bieroth, NV Clint Blaes, KS Melissa Hinton, FL Lindsey Calhoun, OH David Bryant, AL Ashley Baker, TN Bryan Dodson, CA Amanda Cloud, MT Kelly Murdock, TX Danielle Poirier, MA Chase Cockerell, TX Kyle Shipley, TX Megan Brownell, CA Kimberely Bennett, CA Adam Johnson, KY Becky Small, NE Casey Simpson, AK Mike Sidofi, NY Chase Holcumbrink, MO

69 Committee Reports Issue Committee: Participation in National CDEs by Middle School FFA Members

Laura Fowler, FL Whereas, this committee feels we need to find equal opportunities for dues- Ashley Passman, LA paying middle school members. Cody Penfold, CA Whereas, we feel there is not sufficient information on middle school Veronica Penalber, LA agricultural education and FFA members. Monty Middleton, TX Miranda Clayson, NY Bryan Powell, AR Be it resolved that the National FFA Delegate Committee on Middle School Todd Kelly, VT FFA Members Participating in National CDEs recommends the following: Michael Maw, GA Erik Holland, CA Convene a middle school task force to find more information and statistics on this Angie Kringle, WI matter. Pete Dinius, OH Evaluate the information and provide it to a future delegate committee. Virginia Watson, VA Laura McCrary, TN The following support leads this committee to believe these recommendations Whitney Griffin, AL Kristin Reiman, MN are needed: Joe Stan, TX Our committee feels it is important to find information on the following: middle school Taylor Best, NC statistics, statistics on agricultural education teachers instructing high school and middle Amber Cleaver, CA school, the Discovery Degree's objectives and productivity, as well as the number of Marin Summers, MO states with winning teams as middle school members. We also are looking for any other Amanda Zittrouer, GA statistics and information that would better able the committee to reach a Rachel McLeod, SC recommendation. Kelsey Blagg, CA Courtney Bullock, TX Respectfully submitted on this 29th day of October by: Ryan Becker, NE Ryan Curtis, OH Committee Chair: Matthew Woodington, ID Blaze Carnie, TX Committee Vice Chair: Bryttni Westlake, WY; Tyler Bradley, OR Lucas Moddy, KS Committee Secretary: Jessica Geisler, IN Edward McCann, VI Maurey Peterson, IL Tallie Stewart, OK Becky Hedges, PA Erin Smith, TX Stephanie Witt, IL Blake Harper, MO Katie Marchal, MI Betsy Ratashak, IA Kristine Lally, FL Nathan McLeod, GA Rachel Whitener, MO Matt Anderson, TX Natalie Ryan, CA Rachel Paschall, TN John Adam Greenlee, MS Candise Kurka, WA Jamie Hagenow, WI Justin Bailey, KY Kourtney Aboudara, CA PHOTO BY ED ZURGA The winners of the Model of Innovation Middle School Chapter Jennifeur Wilson, NJ award, prove that students can benefit from FFA early in their Brandon Braah, MT scholastic careers. Zac Morris, TX Lacy Eiland, AL Shellie Umphries, AR Jesse Larson, SD

70 Committee Reports Issue Committee: Expansion and Diversification of Career Development Events

Nicolina Prestininzi, CA Whereas, it is vital that the National FFA Organization meet the needs of stu- Nikki Evans, AR dents from all backgrounds; and Joe Garner, AR Whereas, state associations are more able to identify student backgrounds and Josh Morgan, AZ their needs; and Mark Aguiar, CA Breanna Bell, CA Whereas, state and national career development events play an integral role in Carey Gallani, CA the FFA experience; and Kristen Mejia, CA Whereas, the expansion and diversification of current career development Janelle Williams, CA events for future FFA members will prepare students for premier leadership, per- BJ New, CO sonal growth and career success. Kristina Sims, FL Gina Watters, FL Audrey Collins, GA Be it resolved that the National FFA Delegate Committee on the Expansion Rodney Redd, GA and Diversification of Career Development Events recommends the following: Ashley Seamon, GA To collect and analyze data of the State Career Development Events Survey to deter- Kyle Maas, IA mine the demand for expansion and diversification of national career development Rachel Baum, IL events. Cliff Doulbeare, IL Michael McDaniel, IN The National FFA Organization compile a list with the descriptions of state career Emily Schmeidler, KS development events, including the following: space, time, volunteers, participation Drew White, KY level, sponsors and budget. Morgan Bertrand, LA Tiesha Hernandez, MA Send a follow-up report on the survey results and identify states willing to participate Michael Sheridan, MI in potentially new national CDEs. Krystal Anderson, MN Expand and diversify future CDEs using the survey results as a guide. Eric Swatzke, MN Brooke Carder, MO The following support leads this committee to believe these recommendations Allison Yarnell, MO are needed: Daniell Moore, MS Holly Deal, NC Proven by testimony, it is apparent that members of the National FFA Organization Amy Nolan, ND desire further expansion and diversification of career development events. This expan- Beau Klug, NE sion and diversification will not only continue the legacy of student success, but also Catherine Bell, NJ better prepare FFA members for career success in the diverse agricultural industry. Ashley Riley, NM Whitney Beck, OH The following examples demonstrate this need: Trisha Kick, OH Shanelle White, OK 1) Expanding Parliamentary Procedure to include Opening Ceremonies; Danielle Hotter, MA Shannon Barrett, OR 2) Expanding Agricultural Mechanics to include a small engines and welding section; Karlai Acevedo, PR 3) Adding a National Agriculture Discussion Meet contest; Allie Shrum, TN Grant Alkire, TX 4) Adding a Small Animal Care/Vet Tech contest; Eric Bitner, TX 5) Adding a Turf Grass Management contest. Lacy Davidson, TX Kati Gillian, TX Nick Gonzales, TX Respectfully submitted on this 29th day of October by: Jerrod Justice, TX Committee Chair: Jackie Mundt, WI Wil Wiederhold, TX Committee Vice Chair: Fred Scoville, CT; Tiffany Clegg, UT Heather Keagy, VA Committee Secretary: Jeffrey Blackstone, ME; Carrie Bascom, NH Greg Osborne, VA Randi Nickels, WA Steve Boe, WI Brent McClung, WV

71 Committee Reports Issue Committee: Review Criteria for Collegiate FFA Membership

Gina Eckler, MO Whereas, collegiate FFA guidelines currently limit membership to students Dana Barber, MS enrolled in agricultural courses or who are pursing career objectives in the industry Lendy Yeaman, NC of agriculture. Hannah Beam, AL Jonathan Snow, DE Whereas, expanding membership has the potential to increase agricultural Riston Zielke, ND literacy on a national basis. Josh Stevens, VA Whereas, collegiate FFA currently eliminates potential contributors who have Cindy Anthes, NJ never had the previous opportunity to join the FFA. Laura Kowalkowski, WA Whereas, there are no current dues that support national collegiate FFA Allisyn Woodrow, AR programs. Bobby Yarbrough, AR Whereas, there are no current national bylaws and constitution set up for Kelly Bishop, CA Tyler Blagg, CA collegiate FFA. Nicole Borges, CA Philip Chism, CA Be it resolved that the National FFA Delegate Committee on Collegiate FFA Alex Lopez, CA recommends the following: Domenica Prestininzi, CA Lindsay Walsh, CA 1. Amend Article V, Section D of the Constitution so that it will read: Collegiate Gina Gambino, CT membership—Collegiate membership shall be open to students who are enrolled in Kelly Aue, FL agricultural courses, who are pursuing career objectives in agriculture, or have an interest Stephanie Mack, FL in the future welfare of the agriculture industry at a two- or four-year postsecondary Candace Wiliams, GA institution having a collegiate FFA chapter. Jackie Akuna, HI 2. Collegiate FFA members will pay dues to the National FFA Organization specifically Kirk Builta, IL supporting collegiate FFA. An optional fee will be made by individuals who want the New Kristina Grebner, IL Horizons magazine. We also recommend that New Horizons magazine include a collegiate Jill Steiner, IN insert highlighting state and national activities. Jenna Maubach, IA Molly Fields, KY 3. There is no current national collegiate FFA constitution; therefore, this committee Brian Hopkins, KY resolves that the National FFA Organization develop a constitution, bylaws and mission Danielle Hoter, MD statement to help provide guidance for collegiate FFA membership, to be voted upon at Jason Jaekel, MI the 2004 National FFA Convention. Luke Becker, MN Ryun Morris, MO The following support leads this committee to believe these recommendations Halsey Wallace, MT are needed: Miranda Koepke, NE Joe Meallo, NH Increase membership and participation in collegiate FFA. Rachel Lueras, NM Caroline Long, NC The collegiate FFA members will receive return value from their investment into the Becky Gibbs, OH collegiate FFA. Andrea Maurer, OH The collegiate FFA programs and advisors will obtain structure and guidance through Dallas Krout, OK established constitutions and bylaws. This would establish conformity among the existing Anna Sheperd, OR collegiate FFA programs and facilitate the construction of future collegiate FFA programs. Heather Sisto, PA Allison Waggoner, SC Respectfully submitted on this 29th day of October by: Leann Quinn, TN Chris Cumby, TX Committee Chair: Chris Ritscher, WI Tyler Koch, TX Committee Vice Chair: Chris Vessell, TN JP Parkerson, TX Committee Secretary: Hope Hatcher, GA; Shane Jacques, RI Kyle Pinkerton, TX Ansen Pond, TX Samantha Srp, TX Matthew Townsend, TX Ashby Ruddle, WV Adam Freis, WI

72 Committee Reports Issue Committee: Increased Public Awareness of the FFA Ryan Hauck, ND Whereas, the members of the National FFA Organization seek to find more operable Bill Munns, UT and personable forms of media awareness and involvement tools. Jason Clenney, AR Miranda Haywood, AR Be it resolved that the National FFA Delegate Committee on Increased Public Alanna McNutt, IA Awareness of the FFA recommends the following: Monica Cordoua, TX Scotty Pearson, TX 1. To establish training workshops at national convention, NLCSO, WLC and other Jessica Housley, TX national conferences concerning resources available and other methods of promoting Kayla Williams, TX awareness of FFA. Brian Corley, TX Katherine Byrd, TX 2. To include a recommendation for the national organization to provide a pamphlet or Rose Dudgeon, OH a brochure or a newsletter for chapters to develop a website that will increase the public Mike Derringer, OH awareness of FFA in their communities and also add a “visitor’s page” to ffa.org. Cassandra Yantis, OH Daniel Locklear, NC 3. That the national FFA send to state and local associations more user-friendly Ted Clayton, NC programs and formats for news releases, media releases, televised broadcasts and all Cindy Greeen, VA other forms of advertisement. Furthermore, these programs need to be able to be David Erwin, TN manipulated and personable. Coty Back, KY Rachel Gattuso, NV 4. That the national FFA publish an article in New Horizons magazine on how chapters Eric Dobbins, WA can increase the public awareness of FFA in their local communities through Kelvin Moreno, FL newspaper, radio and TV public announcements, news/press releases, National FFA Amy Keyser, FL Week and chapter tours. Amber Rose, OK Mark Diener, CA 5. That the national FFA have cooperation with their sponsors through their own Anne Diener, CA advertisements in order to encourage corporate sponsorship to help promote the FFA Brian Fiorini, CA mission. Erin Peer, CA Kristy Crow, CA Respectfully submitted on this 29th day of October by: Aric Yaw, IA Committee Chair: Megan McElffresh, NE Casey Blevins, MO Committee Vice Chair: Melanie Sanborn, NH Mary LaValla, MN Committee Secretary: Tara Bolgiano, WY Patrick Hackley, MT Jaye Snyder, IL Becky Littlefield, IL Randsom McArthur, GA Alex Hicks, GA Shelby Corbett, GA Ashleigh Butts, AL Sarah Hinz, NY Anthony Megel, CO Alexis Schank, WI Christine Lepple, WI Josh McCubbins, KY PHOTO BY KELLY ROGERS Publicizing chapter activities helps ensure continued support of the organization. 73 Committee Reports Issue Committee: FFA—What does it stand for?

Jennifer Himburg, AL Bernadette Nace, PA Joanna Stewart, AL Katie Jenkins, ID Eric Adams, KY Wade Vangilder, IL John LeSaine, SC Krissy Keeler, DE Richard Sivils, AZ Jenna Haugen, KY Whereas, Article I of the national constitution states, "The name of Crystal Nielson, SD Monica Coker, AR the organization shall be the National FFA Organization"; and, Blake Brignac, LA Whereas, recognized units of the organization may officially use the Adam Carlton, TN letters "FFA" and/or the words "Future Farmers of America" to desig- Corey Davis, AR nate the organization, its units and/or members; and, Josh Dahlem, LA Whereas, Public Law 105-225 states that the name of the organiza- Mark King, TN tion is the "Future Farmers of America"; and, Nicole Amaral, CA Micaela Hotham, ME Whereas, per 1998 National FFA Board of Directors minutes, the Dyllan Bryant, TX following technical amendment was made to the National FFA Beth Cundiff, CA Constitution: "The name of the Future Farmers of America organiza- Jeana Prather, MD tion shall be known as and shall do business as the National FFA LaRenda Douglas, TX Organization”; therefore, Andrea Jue, CA Timothy Roy, MA Heather Evans, TX Be it resolved that the National FFA Delegate Committee on FFA— Megan Marques, CA What does it stand for? recommends the following: Ryan Peterson, MI 1. No change be made to the name of our organization. Justin Johnson, TX Kyle McCullough, CA 2. National FFA Organization and state FFA associations make members Dawn Luhmann, MN more aware that the letters "FFA" still stand for Future Farmers of America. Travis Orms, TX Katie Robertson, CA Respectfully submitted on this 29th day of October by: Jesse Cheever, MO Committee Chair: Nicki Busdieker, MO Travis Sullivan, TX Stephen Russell, CT Committee Secretary: Amber Frank, PA; Amanda Koszewski, NY Jill Klepper, NE Kellie Swanberg, TX Justin Sharpless, FL Jenelle Montilone, NJ Renee Audet, VT Justin Grimsley, GA Ginger Goodan, NM Lindsay Charity, VA Dathan Harbert, GA Jade Love, NC Stacey Prickett, WA Constance Saxon, GA William Pence, NC Ben Tucker, WA Jeffrey Evers, IL Adam Little, ND Amber Taylor, WV Timmothy Green, IN Jeremiah Logsdon, OH Julie Felix, WI Jennifer Shepherd, IN Ben Stoller, OH Kayla Woolever, WI Danny Dreher, IA PHOTO BY SAM HHARREL Chase Turner, OK Linsey Pollart, CO Delegates carefully deliberated over the decision not to Sheena Spurgin, IA change the meaning of “FFA.”

74 Committee Reports PHOTO BY WALES HUNTER The nominating committee had a tough job to do and spent long days reviewing the candidates and discussing the new national officer team… Nominating We, the nominating committee, have given careful and deliberate consideration to all applicants running for a national office. The com- mittee nominates the following slate of candidates to the delegates at the 2003 National FFA Convention to serve as national officers for the year 2003-2004.

Central Region Vice President: Amy Rasmussen, Nebraska Eastern Region Vice President: Anne Knapke, Ohio Southern Region Vice President: Christy Windham, Mississippi Western Region Vice President: Casey Hogan, Texas National Secretary: Stacia Christine Berry, Wyoming National President: Javier Moreno, Puerto Rico

Respectfully submitted: Stuart Joy (Chair), New Mexico Kenan Peters (Vice Chair), Illinois Rachel Chillas, Delaware Mindy Crane, Connecticut Erica Der, Florida Arne Harstad, South Dakota Meredith McCurdy, Mississippi Brandon McEndaffer, Colorado Chancey Redgate, Oklahoma PHOTO BY WALES HUNTER …however, they still managed to have some fun while building lifelong friendships and memories! 75 PHOTO BY ED ZURGA PHOTO BY KELLY ROGERS PHOTO BY ED ZURGA PHOTO BY SAM HARREL PHOTO BY SAM HARREL PHTO BY ED ZURGA PHOTO BY ED ZURGA PHOTO BY SAM HARREL

76 PHOTO BY KELLY ROGERS PHOTO BY WALES HUNTER PHOTO BY WALES HUNTER PHTO BY SAM HARREL PHOTO BY SAM HARREL PHOTO BY ED ZURGA

77 PHOTO BY KELLY ROGERS PHOTO BY ED ZURGA PHOTO BY KELLY ROGERS PHOTO BY KELLY ROGERS PHOTO BY KELLY ROGERS PHOTO BY ED ZURGA

78 PHOTO BY KELLY ROGERS PHOTO BY WALES HUNTER PHOTO BY ED ZURGA PHOTO BY SAM HARREL PHOTO BY ED ZURGA PHOTO BY KELLY ROGERS PHOTO BY KELLY ROGERTS 79 2003-2004 National FFA Officer Team Javier Moreno Stacia Berry Anne Knapke President Secretary Eastern Region Vice 93 Troy Avenue 3000 County Road 225 President Lebanon, PA 17046 Cheyenne, WY 82009 P.O. Box 831 Voicemail: 317-802-4341 Voicemail: 317-802-4346 Oxford, OH 45056 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Voicemail: 317-802-4343 E-mail: [email protected]

Age: 20 Age: 19 Age: 20 FFA Chapter: S.U. Antonia Serrano FFA Chapter: Cheyenne FFA Chapter Chapter: Talawanda-Butler Tech FFA Chapter Chapter Enterprise: Market and breeding beef and mar- Enterprise: Job placement, market steers, mar- Enterprise: Vegetable and fruit production ket swine ket barrows, home improvement State FFA Office: 1999-2000 Puerto Rico Vice State FFA Office: 2002-2003 Wyoming State FFA Office: 2001-2002 Ohio Vice President President President High School Activities: FFA, student council, High School Activities: DECA, speech and High School Activities: Class vice president, National Honor Society, chorus debate, varsity volleyball, National Honor student council vice president, National Honor FFA Awards: H.O. Sargent Award, chapter Society Society, St. Mary’s youth group scholarship, public speaking, parliamentary pro- FFA Awards: 2002 National Extemporaneous FFA Awards: Third place state meats evaluation cedure Speaker; 2000 National Parliamentary Procedure team, state extemporaneous public speaking, star College and Major: Penn State, agricultural Team; 2001 Third place National Poultry chapter farmer, star chapter greenhand, Third education Evaluation; 1999 National Bronze Emblem Creed place state cooperative education CDE Speaking College Activities: Alliance Christian College and Major: The Ohio State University, Fellowship, Ag Advocates, EARTH House, College and Major: University of Wyoming, agribusiness and applied economics Ballroom Dance Club animal science College Activities: University Ambassador, Career Goal: To become an agricultural educa- College Activities: SPURS (sophomore academ- Ohio Staters Inc., Campus Crusade for Christ, tion teacher and FFA advisor ic honorary), Alpha Zeta (agricultural academic Saddle and Sirloin Animal Sciences Club honorary), Delta Delta Delta, Ag Ambassador Career Goal: To work in a challenging career Career Goal: To represent the agricultural combining my love of agriculture and interna- industry in the public arena in a positive manner tional relations

Amy Rasmussen Casey Hogan Christy Windham Central Region Vice Western Region Vice Southern Region Vice President President President 1133 County Road Q 440 Avalon Lane 199 Triangle Drive Mead, NE 68041 Coppell, TX 75019 Laurel, MS 39443 Voicemail: 317-802-4342 Voicemail: 317-802-4345 Voicemail: 317-802-4344 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected]

Age: 20 Age: 20 Age: 19 Chapter: Mead FFA Chapter Chapter: Arlington-Martin FFA Chapter Chapter: Northeast Jones FFA Chapter Enterprise: Diversified crop production and Enterprise: Breeding beef heifers, meat goats Enterprise: Sheep production, beef production beef production and agricultural communications and work experience at the Mississippi State FFA Office: 2001-2002 Nebraska Vice State FFA Office: 2001-2002 Texas Vice Department of Agriculture and Commerce President President State FFA Office: 2001-2002 Mississippi Vice High School Activities: National Honor Society, High School Activities: Varsity volleyball man- President and 2002-2003 Mississippi President Fellowship of Christian Athletes, varsity volley- ager, youth group High School Activities: Future Leaders of Jones ball and basketball, student council FFA Awards: American Degree, star chapter County, student council, show choir, varsity soc- FFA Awards: Star greenhand, state creed speak- farmer, star greenhand, FFA officer of the year, cer er, state extemporaneous speaker, star chapter DeKalb award FFA Awards: State extemporaneous speaker, farmer, DeKalb award College and Major: Tarleton State University, second in state creed speaking College and Major: University of Nebraska, agricultural education College and Major: Jones County Junior agricultural education College Activities: Alpha Gamma Rho, student College. agricultural development College Activities: College of Agriculture government, collegiate FFA, interfraternity coun- College Activities: Choir, College Republicans Ambassador, Navigators, Ag Ed Club, intramural cil officer Career Goal: To serve the agricultural industry sports, Chi Omega Career Goal: To be an agricultural science in a corporate setting by lobbying for legislation Career Goal: To teach agricultural education to teacher and then a member of state or national junior high and high school students FFA staff

80 The FFA Mission: FFA makes a positive difference in the lives of stu- dents by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. The Agricultural Education Mission: Agricultural Education prepares students for successful careers and a lifetime of informed choices in the global agriculture, food, fiber and natural resources systems. The National FFA Organization is a resource and support organization that does not select, control or supervise state association, local chap- ter or individual member activities except as expressly provided for in the National FFA Organization Constitution and Bylaws. The National FFA Organization affirms its belief in the value of all human beings and seeks diversity in its membership, leadership and staff as an equal opportunity employer.

© 2003 National FFA Organization

The 2003 National FFA Convention PROCEEDINGS was printed by

as a special project of the National FFA Foundation. Julian Garcia FFA member 1987-1989

Who’d have thought corduroy could take you so far?

You’ve come a long way since you wore that blue jacket. And the lessons of teamwork and leadership you learned in it have served you well. On its 75th anniversary, FFA is asking former members to reconnect with the organization that gave them so much. Share your story and be an advocate for FFA and agricultural education. Visit www.ffa.org/reconnect/ or call 1-888-433-2674. After all, where would you be without the blue jacket?

www.ffa.org/reconnect/