Blog – Missouri FFA and Agriculture Education

Feb 20 2025

Laugh Out Loud

2024-2025, Braden Havlik

Braden Havlik

All too often, I get stuck in the endless cycle of scrolling through social media on my phone or mindlessly texting people about the most random topics, and I am sure there are a lot of people who can relate. I find myself constantly responding to texts with things like “LOL,” meaning “laugh out loud,” or simply, “haha,” when most of the time, I don’t even let out a chuckle. This forced me to wonder about all the things we do out of habit with no meaning whatsoever. Scrolling through our phones, texting someone that I “laughed out loud” without actually laughing at all, and asking someone how they are but not listening to their response all came to my mind.

Soon, I found myself contemplating why we waste so much of our lives doing things for no apparent reason. Why do I spend so much time watching videos that provide me with no entertainment or satisfaction? Why do I ask people how they are doing if I don’t take the time to truly listen to what they say? Why do I take the time to text someone something that I never actually did? All of these questions forced me to look at my life from a different perspective and made me think of one of my favorite songs by Wyatt Flores, “Running Out of Time.” In this song, it states, “most people die at 27, get buried at 72,” which proves the more we do these mindless activities, the less we are living. The less we are making the most of each minute of our lives.

Missouri FFA, it’s never too late to start living during your time in our organization. Another line in the song is, “so, do what makes you feel alive.” This is my challenge for you. Don’t take for granted the time you have in FFA, or on earth, because to be honest, it truly is too short. Wake up before you can’t give another speech, before you can’t do another CDE, before you unzip your blue jacket for the last time. Missouri FFA, laugh out loud and do what makes you feel alive … we’re running out of time.

Feb 17 2025

Be Present in the Moment

2024-2025, Madilynn Wehmeyer

Madilynn Wehmeyer

I had never thought that I would enjoy a barnwarming until I began as a state officer. Barnwarming at my home chapter was filled with dancing and chili, but I was not much of a dancer. Until, I found myself one night in November at the Area 7 barnwarming with a couple of my fellow state officers, and numerous members of this amazing organization. I walked in and was pleased to see a whole team of area officers decked out to match the barnwarming theme of USA. From that point forward I knew this was going to be a great night. As each of the members walked in and they received beads to wear, the party was on. However, as I was going on about the night I couldn’t help thinking of all the other things I had to do the rest of the week. My homework, chores, taking my car to get new tires, work, so many things were distracting me. Thinking of just the future was taking me away from the present. I was out of the moment and missing out on the opportunity to visit and make memories with the people around me. Be present in the moment. These words are something I constantly have to say to myself. Way too often I believe we find ourselves focusing on the future. While it is important to think of our future, we must not forget to live in the moment. We only have so many moments and memories to make in FFA. So be present in your moments. Take advantage of the opportunities that FFA is offering you, whether that is new friends, a new skill, or a chance to step out of your comfort zone. Missouri FFA, be present in the moment.

Jan 08 2025

No Dream is too Big Unless Your Courage is too Small

2024-2025, Emma Robinson

Emma Robinson

“I can’t wait to follow my dreams! But I’ll do that once I get out of school.”

“Well, life is busy now. I’ll do it once I have a job.”

“This job takes up so much of my time. I’ll chase that dream after I have a family.”

“My family is at home, so I can’t do it now. But I will when my kids move out of the house.”

“My kids are out and retirement is around the corner! That’s when I’ll start chasing my dream.”

“But, now I have grandkids… maybe after they get older….”

This cycle of excuses will continue until it doesn’t have time to anymore. What was once a dream waiting to come true as a teenager can quickly turn into a distant memory.

Sometimes, in the hustle of life, we find ourselves caught up in the pursuit of dreams that, in hindsight, might not even be our own. We chase after goals set by the expectations others have for us and lose sight of what truly brings us joy and fulfillment.

It’s only in these moments of stillness and reflection that we can find the courage to redirect ourselves back to our own path, embracing the passions and aspirations that we have seemed to hide deep within our hearts.

Each and every one of us has different dreams. Each and every one of us also has an excuse to go along with it.

So, take a moment and think of your dream. What is stopping you from chasing it? Do you want to look back on your life wishing you would have taken the next step when you had the time?

Life is never going to slow down, so it’s your job to embrace the time you have now.

No dream is too big unless your courage is too small. Whether you want to start a business, pick up a new hobby or live in a van and travel across the country, take the next step. Don’t let an excuse keep you from achieving the desires of your heart.

So, fill in the blank with your dream. Speak it out loud.

“My dream is ______________, and I am courageous enough to take the next step to accomplish it.”

Tomorrow is not promised, and life is too short to regret what could have been. Take the chance. Be courageous.

No dream is too big unless your courage is too small.

Dec 13 2024

Embracing Vulnerability: Finding Strength Through Struggles

2024-2025, Gavin Rhode

Gavin Rhode, Secretary

In life, true strength often comes from embracing vulnerability, even when it feels like everything is falling apart. Two years ago, I learned this lesson the hard way. During a football game, I took a helmet to the back of my knee, dislocating my tibia and tearing both my ACL and lateral meniscus. What followed was a painful journey of physical and emotional recovery where I discovered strength doesn’t come from avoiding vulnerability, it comes from facing it head on.

The road to recovery wasn’t easy. For months, I endured countless hours of physical therapy, pushing through pain, frustration and self-doubt. My body wasn’t cooperating, and I often found myself questioning whether I would ever be able to return to the field. But in those moments of struggle, I realized overcoming obstacles isn’t just about raw physical strength, it’s about resilience, determination and accepting help when needed.

As an FFA member, we understand hard work and perseverance are essential to overcoming any challenge. Agriculture has a rich history of overcoming adversity, from the struggles farmers faced during the Dust Bowl to the modern-day challenges of maintaining a farm or ranch. Those who persevered through these hardships didn’t shy away from vulnerability, they leaned into it, drawing strength from their community and their determination to keep going.

In the same way, I’ve learned that life’s struggles are not something to fear or avoid. Instead, they are opportunities to grow, improve and become stronger. It’s in facing these challenges, being vulnerable and pushing forward that we truly find our strength.

Dec 10 2024

What’s Your Brand?

2024-2025, Matthew Lakey

Matthew Lakey

I was recently driving home after a long week of classes at Missouri State, and I passed the local John Deere dealership just outside of Springfield. As I drove by and looked at the sea of green equipment, I immediately thought of everything John Deere is known for as a company. Excellent customer service, outstanding tractors and the beautiful green paint that every piece of equipment is doused in are just a few of the reasons why John Deere is one of the largest and most successful companies in the world. After I drove by the dealership, I thought to myself, just as John Deere is recognized by green paint, we as individuals are recognized by how we conduct ourselves and how we treat other people. I’m sure many people have heard the phrase, “There’s always somebody watching.” This has been preached to me by my parents for years, and I can say without a doubt they were 100% right. People are always watching to see how we treat other people, how we act with our friends and how hard we work. Just as John Deere is a brand that is known around the world for customer service, tractors and green paint, we too are known by our work ethic, our behavior around our closest friends and our willingness to help others. How will you create your own brand?

Dec 06 2024

Finding Success Where You Are

2024-2025, Amelia Hawkins

Amelia Hawkins, VP

Turning 15 is something a lot of people look forward to with excitement. It’s the day you get your driver’s permit and can start driving. For someone like me, however, learning to drive was an absolute nightmare. I was a fast learner in school and picked new material up quickly. But when it came to driving? All bets were off. Mistakes were made constantly, and every little reminder my parents had to give felt like its own failure.

Driving became an experience I tried desperately to avoid. How could I not be good at this? Everyone else I knew could drive and do it so well. Why couldn’t I be like them? Surely my older brother hadn’t had this much trouble trying to drive. In the way people struggling do all too often, I started comparing myself to everyone else and how great at driving they were – something I firmly believed I could never be.

My dad was the one to help me break this attitude of comparison. He reminded me that my brother had been driving for two years already, whereas I had been learning for only a few months. I couldn’t possibly be as good of a driver as someone with as much experience as him, but I was pretty good for someone who had as much practice as I did. Rather than focus on where I was compared to his skill level, I should find success in the steps I had made in my own driving experience.

Throughout the many lessons life throws at us, it’s easy to focus on comparing where you are to where someone else is. But instead of comparing ourselves to others’ experiences, we should learn to take pride in where we are in our own journeys of success.

Dec 05 2024

2025 Greenhand Motivational Conferences

Trending Now

AREA

DATE

LOCATION

TIME

January 7

TBD

8:30 am

January 8

NCMC, Trenton

8:30 am & 12 pm

January 9

TSU, Kirksville

9:30 am

January 10

MU, Kirksville

9:00 am

January 9

Bowling Green

4:00 pm

January 7

Mohler Assembly Hall, MSF, Sedalia

12:00 pm

January 7

Mohler Assembly Hall, MSF, Sedalia

9:00 am

8/14 LU

January 6

Jefferson City

9:00 am

SW 1

January 8

MSU

8:30 am

SW 2

January 8

MSU

11:30 am

SW 3

January 9

MSU

8:30 am

SW 4

January 9

MSU

11:30 am

SW 5

January 10

MSU

8:30 am

January 7

Waynesville

1:30 pm

January 8

MSU – West Plains

8:30 am

January 7

Sullivan HS

8:30 am

January 9

La Croix Methodist Church, Cape Girardeau

9:00 am

January 8

TRCC, Poplar Bluff

2:30 pm

Dec 03 2024

Love Your People

2024-2025, Andi Belt

Andi Belt, President

I can say without a moment’s doubt that I wouldn’t be who I am or where I am today without the support of “my people” along the way. Growing up with four little brothers and countless little cousins, I was never short of cheerleaders at any of my events. Whether it was a basketball game, FFA banquet, softball tournament or sheep show, I could always count on my family being there to celebrate my successes and soften the blow of tough losses. When I got to high school, my village only grew. My teammates, chapter officer team and countless new FFA friends soon became part of my family. Some of the biggest ways they “showed up” for me was through the smallest gestures. When I headed to state officer interviews, my parents, little brothers, cousins, aunts and uncles prepared a basket filled with my favorite things – handwritten notes of encouragement, bible verses and, of course, V8 energy drinks. When I graduated high school, my FFA friends from all over the state drove to the middle-of-nowhere Shelby County to celebrate with hugs and laughter. On my 18th birthday, my 15 new best friends threw the sweetest “mini party” at state officer training. All of these moments truly remind me of how lucky I am. The way they continue to show up for me, be there to celebrate every small success and never stop reminding me how loved I am – that is truly what has made me who I am today. All of us have “our people”. Those who’ve been there for us when we need it most. While it’s easy to think about the difference they’ve made, often we forget to show them how grateful we are. My challenge for all of us as we head into this next season of life is to show our love and appreciation for those who have loved, celebrated and supported us along the way!

Nov 27 2024

Progress over Perfection

2024-2025, Carmen Wilburn

Carmen Wilburn

Throughout my high school years, I was someone who fixated on what went wrong instead of what went right. Whether it was a test, game, or a contest, I spent hours replaying my mistakes in my head, focusing on what I could’ve done better. I rarely celebrated the effort I put in or the progress I made. Instead, I was consumed by the idea that anything less than perfect was failure.

Perfectionism makes you believe that success is only defined by flawlessness, and when I didn’t meet those impossibly high standards, I felt like I’d failed. It created an environment where my self-worth was tied to external achievements, and any misstep felt like a personal defeat. The result? Constant self-criticism and an inability to recognize or appreciate my accomplishments.

But somewhere along the way, I realized that this cycle wasn’t serving me. Instead of seeing mistakes as failures, I began to see them as opportunities for growth. I learned to give myself credit for the effort and progress, not just the end result. One key moment in this shift came from my basketball coach telling me, “we’ve just gotta work with what we’ve got”. That simple yet profound statement helped me reframe my mindset. Instead of striving for perfection in every play, I started to focus on what I could do with the tools and skills I had at the moment. It was about progress, not perfection.

A couple of weeks ago, I had a conversation with a student about a speech competition they had participated in. When I asked how it had gone, they told me they had lost. In that moment, I realized that I wasn’t the only one who struggled to see the positive side of things. FFA members, even when you don’t get the outcome you worked hard for, it’s important to celebrate the small victories. Whether it’s improving your skills, learning from the experience, or simply stepping out of your comfort zone, every effort is a win. Progress isn’t always about the final result, it’s about how far you’ve come and what you’ve learned along the way.

Nov 17 2024

Take The First Step

2024-2025, Gentrie Davis

Gentrie Davis, VP

“Time to get up, Gentrie!” These five words send a ring to my ears every morning. If you are like me, you know the value of sleep, especially when it comes to five more minutes…

With fall rolling in and the temperatures dropping, the battle between cozy blankets and the cold, hard floor begins. If there’s one thing I dread, it’s getting out of bed and stepping onto that chilly surface. Simply hitting the floor is the first step into my day. On the other side, the cool floor sure sends a chilling sensation that wakes me up!

Over the course of my time in FFA, I have been relatively active with my Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE). But has it always been easy? Absolutely not. Have I always felt motivated to take action? No way. However, the mentors and opportunities I’ve encountered along the way have made the struggle worth it. As a freshman, my parents helped me develop a plan for my baking and milling business.This wasn’t just a casual hobby; it was a detailed business plan. We outlined the products I would sell, the equipment I would need, and estimated my input and output costs. I was stressed just thinking about creating a plan, but the real anxiety came when I had to put the plan into action. Simply taking that first step.

So often we get in a rut of not knowing where to start or feeling overwhelmed. I still remember my dad telling me about the tasks I needed to be doing to get my SAE functioning. He told me “action accomplishes goals.” His words stuck with me. My dad nudged me into action, and once I took that first step, things started falling into place. I applied for a National FFA grant, which helped fund the equipment and ingredients I needed for my business. Over time, I expanded my product line and grew the business from the ground up. What felt like risk turned into a reward.

So often, taking that first step can feel like a brick wall. We can all plan, take preventative measures and budget, but we have to put this planning into practice. Often when creating goals, we get stuck in the rut of not knowing where to go. I have been there, and the best thing you can do is find someone to hold you accountable. That is your first step. Find someone to push your limits, help you find those opportunities, support your endeavors and seek the inevitable. Just like stepping out of bed onto that cold floor, taking the first step toward your goals can feel uncomfortable. But once you do it, you’re awake, you’re moving and you’re on your way to success. Ask yourself what your first step will be today. Afterall, taking action leads to accomplishment.

Oct 31 2024

Dietzschold Named Outstanding State Supervisor

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Missouri Agricultural Education Director and Missouri FFA Association State Advisor, Keith Dietzschold, was named Outstanding State Supervisor. He was honored by the National Association of Supervisors of Agricultural Education (NASAE) during the organization’s annual conference, held October 22 in Indianapolis, Ind. Each year, NASAE recognizes members who have made outstanding contributions to agricultural education.

Dietzschold’s tenure in agricultural education spans over 40 years and has been marked by grit, organization and unwavering support for the industry. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in animal science from the University of Missouri (MU) in 1982 and completed a Master’s in Education, Agriculture Education emphasis in December 1984.

A former agricultural education instructor and FFA advisor, Dietzschold taught in Chillicothe, Cameron and Lathrop before joining the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education in 2011. In July 2021, he was named director of Missouri Agricultural Education.

According to retired National FFA Officer, Paxton Dahmer, in his recommendation letter, “Mr. Dietzschold has a unique ability to focus on traditions, while also being a visionary leader in our state to ensure that more students are able to reap the benefits of agricultural education than ever before. Mr. Dietzschold truly believes in agricultural education’s ability to transform young people into productive, employable members of society, and this belief is a driving force in his everyday role.”

As director of agricultural education and state FFA advisor, Dietzschold oversees Missouri’s agricultural education program, including the state’s 361 FFA chapters and 26,968 members. The FFA makes a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.

Oct 29 2024

Missouri 2024 National Convention Results

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Record National Membership Announced – 1,027,273 from 9,235 chapters.
Attendance at the 97th National FFA Convention—71,954 members and guests.
Missouri has 27,044 members from 365 chapters.

The highest number of American FFA Degrees by state – 663 recipients – Missouri ranks 11th in overall FFA membership.The American Degree is the Highest Degree that can bestowed on a FFA member – Less than one-half of 1% receive the degree. As the highest degree achievable in the National FFA Organization, the American FFA Degree shows an FFA member’s dedication to his or her chapter and state FFA association. It demonstrates the effort FFA members apply toward their supervised agricultural experience and the outstanding leadership abilities and community involvement they exhibited through their FFA career. American FFA Degree recipients show promise for the future and have gone above and beyond to achieve excellence.

Honorary American FFA Degree:

12 recipients from Missouri

Individuals who have provided exceptional service on a national level to agriculture, agricultural education, or FFA are eligible for the Honorary American FFA Degree. Additionally, teachers who have created high-quality agricultural education programs, which inspire and motivate their students to strive for success, are eligible.

Friends of Missouri FFA—Dean Christopher Daubert, CAFNR, University of Missouri, Brad Driskill, State Fair Community College Agriculture Director, Bradley Schad, CEO, Missouri Corn Growers Association, Eric Volmer, Senior Director of Field Services, Missouri Farm Bureau, Cyndi Young-Puyear, Director of Brownfield Ag News & Learfield Ag, Erin Glarner, Director, Industry Relations, American Soybean Association.

Current Instructors—Kerriann Brandt, Monroe City, Matthew Pendergrass, Doniphan, Amanda Reid, Concordia, Ellen Romero, Russellville, Martha Schreiman, Santa Fe, Devin Garland, Wellington-Napoleon.

Chapter Recognition:

29 Chapters received the highest chapter rating awarded – 3 Star – (Ashland, Aurora, Boonville, Bowling Green, California, Canton, Carthage, Centralia, Eldon, Exeter, Galena, Marshall, Mexico, Montgomery Co R-II, Mount Vernon, Neosho, Nixa, Osceola, Paris, Pettis Co. R-V, Rich Hill, Seneca, Slater, Sweet Springs, Trenton, Troy, Union and West Plains)

8 Chapters received the second highest chapter rating awarded—2 Star – (Brunswick, Carrollton, Eldorado Springs, Farmington, Madison, Richmond, Tipton, Van-Far)

The National Chapter Award Program is designed to recognize FFA chapters that actively implement the mission and strategies of the organization. These chapters improve chapter operations using the National Quality Chapter Standards (NQCS) and a Program of Activities (POA) that emphasize growing leaders, building communities and strengthening agriculture. Chapters are rewarded for providing educational experiences for the entire membership.

The Osceola FFA Chapter was in the top three in the nation within the Strengthening Agriculture division of the National Chapter Award Program. Centralia was in the top ten within the Strengthening Agriculture division of the National Chapter Award Program.

AgriScience Fair:

The National FFA Agriscience Fair recognizes student researchers studying the application of agricultural scientific principles and emerging technologies in agricultural enterprises. The agriscience fair is for middle and high school students. Participation begins at the local level and progresses to state and national levels.

7 Missouri FFA agriscience fair projects (with 10 participants) placed in the top ten in the nation. Those individuals were:
- Animal Systems – Division 3 – Jaden Decker—Centralia FFA—9th place
- Animal Systems – Division 4 – Isabel Morris & Lucy Conger – Rolla FFA – 4th place
- Environ Services/NRS – Division 3 – Athena Wilson-Pleasant Hope FFA – 10th place
- Food Products – Division 3 – Brie Daily – Osceola FFA—6th place
- Food Products – Division 4 – Loraine Arciniegas & Maddyson Alexander – Pleasant Hope FFA—3rd place
- Power, Structural & Tech Sys.—Division 4—Gracie Pulley & Addison Rogers—Pleasant Hope FFA – 2nd place
- Social Systems – Division 3 – Ellie Samek-Bolivar FFA—3rd place

National FFA Endorsed Activities:

National FFA is partnering with other organizations to create a variety of National FFA Endorsed Activities. National FFA staff has vetted these opportunities to ensure relevance and quality. Recognition will not take place at national convention, however it can be held in a similar timeframe as the National FFA Convention.

FFA Quiz Bowl Invitational Milan FFA won this competition for the second year in a row with team members: Jara Sanchez, Kendra Sayre, Daniel Cast Aneda, and Ethan Pearce.

Proficiency Awards:

Agricultural Proficiency Awards honor FFA members who, through supervised agricultural experiences, have developed specialized skills that they can apply toward their future careers. Nationally, students can compete for awards in 44 areas ranging from agricultural communications to wildlife management (see areas below). Proficiency awards are also recognized at local and state levels and provide recognition to members that are exploring and becoming established in agricultural career pathways.

8 National Finalist – top four in the nation based on their work based program.

Agricultural Education—Hayley Gruenewald—Silex FFA
Agricultural Mechanics Repair & Maintenance – Placement – Jacob McElhaney – Atlanta FFA
Diversified Crop Production – Entrepreneurship – Aiden Matthew Plenge – Clark Co. FFA
Equine Science – Entrepreneurship – Alexis Mullins – St. James FFA
Goat Production – Lauren Hammett—Ashland FFA
Grain Production – Tyler Fenner – Sweet Springs FFA

National Winners:

Diversified Horticulture Production – Entrepreneurship/Placement—Ava Bullard- Ashland FFA—NATIONAL WINNER
Dairy Production – Entrepreneurship –Cade Claycomb—Trenton FFA—NATIONAL WINNER

Talent, Chorus and Band:

Talent Show—Missouri was well represented this year on the talent stage.

Emma Pitford—Clark Co. FFA earned a spot in the top 15 talent acts.

Also performing on stages in venues around the National Convention:

Rob Wollgast—Elsberry FFA
Tony Jennings—Gilman City FFA
Kennedy Parrish—Green City FFA
Ivory Schoonover—Nixa FFA
Kason Fuller, John Malter, Judd Malter Cody Marshall & Morgan Skidmore—Smithville FFA
Chorus—Missouri had eleven participants including: Mary Davidson, Ash Grove; Karina Lopez, Aurora; Gabriela Pedron, Aurora; Logan Pinkham, Belton; Victor Sallas, California; Gracie Sappington, Dadeville; Lexi Brown, Fairfax; Liam Hansen, Mount Vernon; Leeanna Brown, Rich Hill; Quin Staten, Tarkio.
Band—Missouri had six participants in the National FFA Band including: Carissa Simagna, Aurora; Abigail Rice, Brunswick; Jeremiah Leonard, Cabool; Cody Schneider, California; Lela Hartschen, North Harrison; Preston Ethridge, Poplar Bluff.

Career and Leadership Development Events Summary

FFA members focus on skill development and career preparation through participation in Career Development Events and Leadership Development Events. These competitive events develop individual responsibility, foster teamwork and promote communication while recognizing the value of ethical competition and individual achievement. Successful members expand their knowledge base by interacting with peers, teachers, as well as business and community leaders to gain a complete and comprehensive knowledge about specific career and leadership areas.

Individuals earning spots in the top 10 individuals also receiving a gold rating are as follows:

4th place individual-Aliza Yoder, North Shelby-Agricultural Mechanics
5th place individual-Aden Johnston, North Shelby-Agricultural Mechanics
6th place individual-Andi Belt, North Shelby-Agricultural Mechanics
4th place individual-Lindy Schwanke, North Shelby-Agronomy
5th place individual-Tj Belt, North Shelby-Agronomy
6th place individual-Trinity Dreckshage, North Shelby-Agronomy
7th place individual—Weston Christine, North Shelby-Agronomy
HIGH Individual—Emme Jones, North Shelby-Farm Management
2nd place individual-Jared Johnston, North Shelby-Farm Management
5th place individual-Samuel Schwanke, North Shelby-Farm Management
4th place individual-Sierra Hussey, Owensville-Floriculture
3rd place individual-Marissa Gottman, Palmyra-Food Science
7th place individual-Anasen Wayne, Gallatin-Forestry
HIGH Individual—Esmeralda Franklin, Nevada-Livestock Evaluation
HIGH Individual—Dallas Hardt, Fair Play-Milk Quality & Products
2nd place individual-Alexis Bee, Fair Play, Milk Quality & Products
5th place individual-Riley Bruce, Fair Play-Milk Quality & Products
6th place individual-Chloe Raley, Pierce City, Poultry Evaluation

CDE/LDE Participants or teams rankings are as follows:

Ag Communications-Richmond–Bronze
Ag Issues Forum-Silex-Winning Team
- (Team Members: Mckenna Claborn, James Cockrell, Hayley Gruenewald, Braden Havlik, and Claire Kinion)
Ag Sales – California—8th place team, Gold
Ag Mechanics –North Shelby— Winning Team
- (Team Members: Andi Belt, Aden Johnston, Austin Wilson, and Aliza Yoder)
Agronomy – North Shelby— Winning Team
- (Team Members: Tj Belt, Weston Christine, Trinity Dreckshage, and Lindy Schwanke)
Conduct of Meetings – Chillicothe–Gold
Creed – Jasmine Appledorn, Milan–Bronze
Dairy Cattle – Logan-Rogersville–Bronze
Dairy Handlers Activity-James Defreece, Marshfield-Gold
Employment Skills-Larissa Larrick, South Shelby-Bronze
Environmental and Natural Resources—Elsberry—Gold
Extemporaneous Speaking –Evelyn Ritter, Seneca—Bronze
Farm Business Management – North Shelby—Winning Team
- (Team Members: Samuel Schwanke, Emme Jones, Evie Jones, and Jared Johnston)
Floriculture – Owensville—7th, Gold
Food Science – Palmyra—8th, Gold
Forestry – Gallatin-4th, Gold
Horse – Ozark-4th, Gold
Livestock – Nevada–Silver
Meats – Slater—Silver
Milk Quality – Fair Play—Winning team
- (Team Members: Alexis Bee, Riley Bruce, William Frye, and Dallas Hardt)
Nursery/Landscape – Audrain R-VI—10th, Gold
Parliamentary Procedure – Troy—Gold
Poultry – Pierce City—4th Gold
Public Speaking –Kaden Pham, Pierce City–Silver
Veterinary Science – Columbia—Bronze

Oct 15 2024

Missouri 2024 National Convention Highlights

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12 National Delegates
National Officer Candidate—Morgan Watkins, Fort Osage

2024-2025 FFA in the USA Reporters from Missouri:
- Cierra Britton-Cuba
- Tegan Herold-Palmyra
- Abigayle Lett-Odessa
- Blayde Lindsay-Brookfield
- Mikaela Rojas-Linn County
- Kolton Stolba-Willow Springs
- Maycee Thouvenel-Versailles

Next-Gen:Environmental Services & Natural Resources Conference:
- Landon Pottebaum—Montgomery County
- Caroline Stallman—Glasgow

Grants for Growing Winners:
- Mount Vernon FFA
- North Platte FFA
- Palmyra FFA
- Tipton FFA
- Savannah FFA
- Winfield FFA

Honorary American Degree Recipients:
- Dean Christopher Daubert, University of Missouri
- Brad Driskill, State Fair Community College
- Bradley Schad, Missouri Corn
- Eric Volmer, Missouri Farm Bureau
- Cyndi Young-Puyear, Brownfield & Learfield Ag.
Instructors Receiving Honorary American Degree:
- Kariann Brandt, Monroe City
- Matthew Pendergrass, Doniphan
- Amanda Reid, Concordia
- Ellen Romero, Russellville
- Martha Schreiman, Santa Fe
- Devin Garland, Wellington-Nepoleon
Proficiency Award Finalists-8 Finalists
- Agricultural Education — Hayley Gruenewald, Silex
- Agricultural Mechanics Repair & Maintenance – Placement—Jacob McElhaney, Atlanta
- Dairy Production – Entrepreneurship—Cade Claycomb
- Diversified Crop Production – Entrepreneurship—Aiden Plenge, Clark County
- Diversified Horticulture—Ava Bullard, Ashland
- Equine Science – Entrepreneurship—Alexis Mullins, St. James
- Goat Production—Lauren Hammett, Ashland
- Grain Production—Tyler Fenner, Sweet Springs.

Agriscience Fair Finalists—7 Finalists
- Animal Systems, Div 3 — Jaden Decker, Centralia
- Animal Systems, Div 4 — Isabel Morris & Lucy Conger, Rolla
- Environmental Services & Natural Resource Systems, Div 3 — Athena Wilson, Pleasant Hope
- Food Products & Processing Systems, Div 3 — Brie Dailey, Osceola
- Food Products & Processing Systems, Div 4 — Loraine Arciniegas & Maddyson Alexander, Pleasant Hope
- Power, Structural and Technical Systems, Div 4 — Gracie Pulley & Addison Rogers, Pleasant Hope
- Social Science, Div 3 — Ellie Samek, Bolivar
National Chapter Awards:
- 29 Three Star Chapters – Highest award for chapter.
- 8 Two Star Chapters – Second highest award for chapters.
Premier Chapter Awards:
- Osceola – Strengthening Agriculture – Top 3 Finalist
- Centralia – Strengthening Agriculture – Top 10 Finalist

Band, Chorus and Talent:
- Accepted in the BAND:
  - Carissa Simagna-Aurora
  - Abigail Rice-Brunswick
  - Jeremiah Leonard-Cabool
  - Cody Schneider-California
  - Lela Hartschen-North Harrison
  - Preston Ethridge-Poplar Bluff
- Accepted in CHORUS:
  - Mary Davidson-Ash Grove
  - Karina Lopez-Aurora
  - Gabriela Pedron-Aurora
  - Logan Pinkham-Belton
  - Victor Salas-California
  - Gracie Sappington-Dadeville
  - Lexi Brown-Fairfax
  - Isabella Hamner-Lake Career & Technical Center
  - Liam Hansen-Mt. Vernon
  - Leeanna Bell-Rich Hill
  - Quin Staten-Tarkio
- Accepted in the TALENT Competition:
  - Emma Pitford-Clark County
  - Rob Wollgast-Elsberry
  - Tony Jennings-Gilman City
  - Kennedy Parrish-Green City
  - Ivory Schoonover-Nixa
  - Kayson Fuller-Smithville
  - John Malter-Smithville
  - Judd Malter-Smithville
  - Cody Marshall-Smithville
  - Morgan Skidmore-Smithville

American Degree Recipients—
Missouri (YOU DID IT AGAIN) #1 in American Degrees with 663. All applicants from MO were approved.

2024 MO American Degree Recipients

CDE/LDE Participants—
- Ag Communications-Richmond
- Ag Issues Forum-Silex
- Ag Sales – California
- Ag Mechanics – North Shelby
- Agronomy – North Shelby
- Conduct of Meetings – Chillicothe
- Creed – Jasmine Appledorn, Milan
- Dairy Cattle – Logan-Rogersville
- Dairy Handlers Activity-James Defreece, Marshfield
- Employment Skills – Larissa Larrick, South Shelby
- Environment & Natural Resources—Elsberry
- Extemp Speaking – Evelyn Ritter, Seneca
- Farm Business Mgt – North Shelby
- Floriculture – Owensville
- Food Science – Palmyra
- Forestry – Gallatin
- Horse – Ozark
- Livestock – Nevada
- Meats – Slater
- Milk Quality – Fair Play
- Nursery/Landscape – Audrain Co. R-VI
- Parliamentary – Troy
- Poultry – Pierce City
- Public Speaking – Kaden Pham, Pierce City
- Vet Science – Columbia

APPLICATION DEADLINE: APRIL 1, 2025

NW District FFA LDEs (including FFA Knowledge) March 26 • Cameron @ 4:30 pm

NE District FFA LDEs & Ag Sales CDE March 24 • Monroe City @ 4:30 pm

SE District Ag CDE’s March 21 • Cape CTC, Cape Girardeau @ 9:00 am

SE District Ag CDEs March 25 • SEMO, Cape Girardeau @ 9:00 am

SE District Horse CDE March 28 • Perryville Hope Center @ 9:00 am

SE District Ag CDE’s March 31 • TRCC, Poplar Bluff @ 9:00 am

NW District Ag CDEs April 1 & 2 • NWMSU, Maryville @ 11:00 am (both days)

NE District Ag CDEs Day 1, Columbia, Apr 2 (New Location) Day 2, Columbia, Apr 7

Central District Ag CDEs April 1 • UCM-Warrensburg @ 9:00 am

Central District FFA LDE’s April 3 • UCM-Warrensburg @ 4:00 pm

SW District Ag CDE’s April 3-4 • MSU

SW District LDE’s April 5 • MSU

SC District CDE’s/FFA LDEs April 8 • Rolla @ 3:30 pm

SC District Ag CDEs April 10 • Rolla @ 9:00 am

AREA

DATE

LOCATION

TIME

Honorary American FFA Degree:

Chapter Recognition:

AgriScience Fair:

National FFA Endorsed Activities:

Proficiency Awards:

Talent, Chorus and Band:

Career and Leadership Development Events Summary

Missouri FFA Association

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MO Team Ag Ed Partner Organizations

NW District FFA LDEs (including FFA Knowledge)
March 26 • Cameron @ 4:30 pm

NE District FFA LDEs & Ag Sales CDE
March 24 • Monroe City @ 4:30 pm

SE District Ag CDE’s
March 21 • Cape CTC, Cape Girardeau @ 9:00 am

SE District Ag CDEs
March 25 • SEMO, Cape Girardeau @ 9:00 am

SE District Horse CDE
March 28 • Perryville Hope Center @ 9:00 am

SE District Ag CDE’s
March 31 • TRCC, Poplar Bluff @ 9:00 am

NW District Ag CDEs
April 1 & 2 • NWMSU, Maryville @ 11:00 am (both days)

NE District Ag CDEs
Day 1, Columbia, Apr 2 (New Location)
Day 2, Columbia, Apr 7

Central District Ag CDEs
April 1 • UCM-Warrensburg @ 9:00 am

Central District FFA LDE’s
April 3 • UCM-Warrensburg @ 4:00 pm

SW District Ag CDE’s
April 3-4 • MSU

SW District LDE’s
April 5 • MSU

SC District CDE’s/FFA LDEs
April 8 • Rolla @ 3:30 pm

SC District Ag CDEs
April 10 • Rolla @ 9:00 am