FFA National Convention

Story By Maddison Smith

Last week, a certain selection of students got the chance to attend the 97th National FFA Convention from the Wellington-Napoleon Chapter. Thirteen students from the chapter got the chance to learn more about the organization, make new friends and become a leader in some type of way. 7 students out of those 13 got the chance to attend the convention their first year of high school. Wyatt Holiday and Kayedence Smith, freshman, really enjoyed this year's convention. Some of their favorite parts were the Louisville Slugger and being at the Colt’s stadium. “I encourage everyone else to at least try it out,” said Wyatt. They both plan on going in their future years of high school, enjoying hanging out with friends, making new ones, and the rodeo. These thirteen students got to go on multiple tours with two other chapters they came with, such as the Lousiville Slugger and Churchill Downs Race Track. During the tour at the Louisville Slugger, students got to watch how the bats were made for many MLB players and how much work is put into it. At the Churchill Downs Race Track, students also got to tour the building and track while being given lots of information and interesting facts.

During the week students attended the Opening Session, National Convention Career Show, National FFA session 4, American Degree Ceremony, and the Bulls and Broncs Tour Rodeo. The National Convention Career Show gave students the opportunity to walk around and talk to many people, learning more about agriculture, college opportunities, things that could be accomplished, and get many free things. During this year's convention, Mr. Garland, our FFA advisor, received one of the highest awards as well. Throughout the years of his teaching he has worked very hard to make his students involved, as well as always being there for his students. He has worked very hard during his years of teaching leading him to receive his Honorary American Degree. This award is one of the highest awards that can be received from an advisor and everyone not only in the school, but family and friends are very proud. On the last day during the American Degree Ceremony, 4 past students from Wellington-Napoleon received their American Degree. These 4 students were Brayden Wahn, Alex Collier, Mason Fischer, and Charlee Mansell. Those 4 past students worked very hard after graduating to receive this degree. Overall, the National FFA Convention could benefit many students in the future if that's what they are looking forward to. Giving them many opportunities to receive and gain many awards and accomplishments.