Cole Hudson of the Ponder FFA Chapter in Texas is a part-time farm and ranch employee on his family’s cattle operation.  He has an active role in the ranch’s daily operations including feeding cattle, building and repairing fences, transporting equipment and completing routine animal health checks. After obtaining a degree in animal science, Hudson hopes to attend veterinary school and operate his own clinic.  He is supported by parents Heath and Nancy Hudson and FFA advisor Brent Lankford and Bart Stover. This award is sponsored by Midwest PMS and Red Brand.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Taylor Shayne Swinson of the Sulphur Springs FFA Chapter in Texas spends each summer at her grandparent’s ranch helping castrate sheep and sell wethers for show.  For her SAE, Taylor used research and experimentation to determine what changes to nutrition and selection could be made so her animals could outperform other show ring animals. Swinson tested the effectiveness of feed supplements and treatments to reduce copper toxicity, among other things.  She is supported by parents Guy and Amber Norris and FFA advisors Amber Norris, Dan Froneberger and Dannie Johnson. This award is sponsored by the National FFA Foundation.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Dennis Grelis of the Fife FFA Chapter in Washington owns a shearing business that specializes in alpacas, sheep, llamas and goats.  He took a course with Washington State University Extension on shearing and, once he received his certificate, purchased hot handles, combs and cutters. Now, Grelis travels to local farms to provide his services.  During the first year of business, he sheared 160 animals. In his second year, Grelis increased service to over 225 animals by accumulating a group of repeat customers and improving marketing strategy.  He is supported by parents Dennis and Gena Grelis and FFA advisor Dennis Burtchett. This award is sponsored by TransCanada.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Wyatt Wolf of the Kerman FFA Chapter in California began his supervised agricultural experience by working at his grandfather’s fabrication shop—designing and constructing new trailers, equipment and components.  Working at the family shop combines his two primary interests: welding and trucks.   Wolf intends to pursue a major in agricultural business and would like to return to his family’s fabrication shop to bring the business to the next level.  He is supported by parents Jeff and Nicole Wolf and FFA advisors Toby Sheehan and Mrs. Molloy. This award is sponsored by Carry-On Trailer and RAM Trucks.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Rachel Sauvola, FFA Advisor of New Richmond FFA of Wisconsion, has been named the 2014 National Association of Agriculture Educator’s Agriscience teacher of the year – district 3. Sauvola sat down with our own Jamye Spence Freeman to discuss what this award means to her.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Sherry Heishman, FFA advisor of Central FFA  of Woodstock Virginia, has been named the 2014 National Association of Agriculture Educator’s Agriscience teacher of the year – district 6. Heishman sat down with our own Jamye Spence Freeman to discuss what this award means to her.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

David Overcash, FFA advisor of South Rowan FFA in North Carolina, has been named the 2014 National Association of Agriculture Educator’s Agriscience teacher of the year – district 5. Overcash sat down with our own Jamye Spence Freeman to discuss what this award means to him.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Mercer Martin of the Willow FFA chapter of Missouri has been named the 2014 extemporaneous speaking winner. Martin sat down with our own Jamye Spence Freeman to discuss how this achievement feels.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

FFA members, Joey Birrittier and Collin Webb, of the Waterloo FFA Chapter share their reaction to their first experience at the National FFA Convention & Expo.  These Illinois FFA members have experienced growth, inspiration and excitement.  Listen in as they share how they plan to “Go All Out” in their home community to be an influence for others.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Dustin Stanton was named the 2014 American Star in Agribusiness today during the eighth general session of the National FFA Convention & Expo. Stanton, 21, is a member of the Centralia FFA Chapter in Centralia, Mo. His advisors are Scott Stone, Lori Lewis and Jessica Cummins. He is the son of Andrew and Judy Stanton. What started as a gift of six chicks from his uncle turned into Stanton’s own enterprise. As co-owner of Stanton Brothers, he manages more than 20,000 laying hens and gardens totaling 4,300 square feet. The Missourian supplies neighbors, local businesses, nursing homes, university dining halls and farmers markets with fresh eggs, radishes and tomatoes. A student at the University of Missouri studying agribusiness management, he wants to return to his family’s farm while expanding his own enterprise. He received the 2011 National FFA Agricultural Proficiency in agricultural sales.

“I have always dreamed of being able to stay on the family farm and continue my passion for agriculture,” he said. “I knew at a young age that I would have to find a niche on the farm and foster it.”

Podcast: Play in new window | Download