86th Kentucky FFA State Convention Now In the Books
The 86th Kentucky FFA State Convention was held in Lexington June 9-11.
Just over 2600 people attended the Convention nearly tying the all time record attendance figure that was set in 2014 according to preliminary attendance figures.
The Convention included state contest finals, leadership workshops, various speakers, a Day of Service, social events, awards program, and election of the 2015-2016 State FFA Officers. National FFA Eastern Region Vice President and Kentucky native Ruth Ann Myers was the keynote speaker. Both Commissioner of Agriculture James Comer and Director of the Director of the Governor’s Office of Agriculture Policy Roger Thomas brought greetings to the Convention attendees.
A special highlight of the Convention was a program honoring the 16 past national officers from Kentucky. 1948-49 National New Farmers of America President Rupert Seals atttended as well as past National FFA Officers Howard Downing, Steve Meredith, Brad Chambliss, and Coty Back. Family members of the late John Reisz, Julian Pierce, Paul Smart, and Jerry Ringo were present for the celebration.
Roger Thomas, Director of the Governor’s Office of Agriculture Policy was honored with the Distinguished Service Award. Angela Blank, Keith Bohart, Rebekah Epps, Tim Hughes, Lea Lewis, Matthew London, and Joe Morgan were awarded the Honorary State FFA Degree.
Rebecca Mobley of the Spencer County FFA was named the 2015, Kentucky FFA Star Farmer. Alisha Prewitt of the Whitley County FFA was named the 2015 Kentucky FFA Star In Placement. Kaitlyn Elliott of Boyle County was named the 2015, Kentucky FFA Star In Agribusiness.
The 2015-2016 State FFA Officer team was elected during the final session of the Convention and will begin training for their year of service next week.
Other updates and photos of various Convention activities are available on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!