FFA members from across South Dakota gathered at the state organization’s 95th convention in Brookings in April for competitions, philanthropy and networking. Over 5,000 students from 109 chapters make up South Dakota FFA.
The National Chapter Award is the highest honor an FFA chapter can receive and recognizes a chapter’s implementation of FFA’s mission and strategies. South Dakota’s top chapters have developed an active program of activities, conducted meaningful events and completed at least 15 activities — one for each of the five quality standards. Other honors awarded were the State FFA Stars. Winning individuals spent hours working on their projects while developing technical skills. Finalists were interviewed by a panel of judges. This year’s stars follow:
State Star Farmer. Landon Roling, McCook Central; FFA advisors Terry Rieckman and Tracy Chase
State Star in Agribusiness. Ashley Bjerke, Sioux Valley; FFA advisor Don Sutera
State Star in Ag Placement. Ella Haven, Northwestern Area; FFA advisor Noelle Swanson
State Star in Agri-Science. Mason Pulse, McCook Central; FFA advisors Terry Rieckman and Tracy Chase The convention also names the six state officers for the coming year. The new officers will travel across the state presenting speeches, facilitating workshops, hosting camps and conferences, and conducting business for the South Dakota FFA Association. The officers for 2023-24 are:
President Alyssa Feather, Wilmot
Vice President Dustin Kolb, Belle Fourche
Secretary Raesa Zelinsky, Brookings
Treasurer Gretta Larson, Lake Preston
Reporter Gabrielle Rebelein, Volga
Sentinel Emily Robbins, Elkton
Source:farmprogress.com
Photo Credit: South Dakota FFA
Categories: South Dakota, Business