Indianapolis (November 1st- November 4th/National FFA Organization) – Each year, the National FFA Organization honors FFA members who show the utmost dedication to the organization through their desire to develop their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education.
The American FFA Degree is bestowed upon a select group of students in recognition of their years of academic and professional excellence. This year over 4,400 American Degrees were awarded.
Emily Hawk and Ryan Pribil, members of the Hennessey FFA chapter in Oklahoma, were awarded the American FFA Degree at the 96th National FFA Convention & Expo on November 4, 2023.
Sponsored by Cargill, Case IH, Elanco Animal Health, and Syngenta, the award recognizes demonstrated ability and outstanding achievements in agricultural business, production, processing, or service programs. To be eligible, FFA members must have earned at least $10,000 or earned at least $2,000 and worked at least 2,250 hrs outside of class time through a supervised agricultural experience (SAE) program in which they own their own business,hold a professional position as an employee, or conduct research. Recipients must also complete 50 hours of community service and demonstrate outstanding leadership abilities and civic involvement through completion of a long list of FFA and community activities. Less than one percent of FFA members achieve the American FFA Degree.
There were 10 students from the chapter who qualified to attend the 2023 National FFA Convention.
Amey Haymaker-President, Hannah Swart-Vice President, Brooklyn Harris-Secretary, Kaden Kennedy- Treasurer, Cale Dickens-Reporter, Leah Dickens-Sentinel, Adin Dickens, Paeton Choate, Jenna Hladik, and Wyatt Muzny. The chapter began the fun, yet educational trip touring Hunter’s Honey Farm in Martinsville, Indiana where they saw how honey is made, harvested, and supplied to the world. At the convention, students attended the “Know Your Worth” leadership workshop where they learned how to demonstrate their personal worth in a professional setting. They also interacted with FFA members and industry professionals from across the country at the trade and career show. The trip wouldn’t have been complete without, “kissing the bricks.” Students learned about the rich history as they were driven around the Indianapolis Speedway (Brickyard), and indeed kissed the bricks! The trip concluded with students visiting the Arch in St. Louis on the way home, and of course, stopped to watch the final “Bedlam,” game. GO POKES!
