Gilmer FFA students among best in the nation
Gilmer County is less than 1 percent of America’s population, but 11 of its students won honors at the FFA’s national championship.
The FFA is a national organization to prepare youth for careers in agricultural science, business and technology.
“Seeing our students get to interact with FFA business and industry leaders from across the United States is the coolest thing,” FFE Advisor Shelby Merrell said.
To get to the championship, Gilmer students studied, perfected their skills and built confidence in public speaking.
“It definitely took a lot of hours,” she said. “That way, they ensured they had a competitive edge.”
Two FFA teams won state competitions to represent Georgia at the national championship.
Student Michael Bushey got a place as one of the top four finalists in National Dairy Production Entrepreneurship Proficiency.
To get this honor, he ran his own dairy production enterprise or business.
FFA members Carly Whittemore, Carleigh Bedwell, and Adleigh Wingate received Gold Emblem honors for National FFA Marketing Plan sponsors. They were among the top eight competitors in America.
In this event, students create and present a marketing plan for agricultural products, supply or services.
Students Emma Kate Bramlett, Madison Hall, Gracie Gaitanoglou, Madelyn Davis, Sadie Johnson, Ava Smith and Chloe Prosser won Silver Emblem Awards for Parliamentary Procedure knowledge.
This event tests student knowledge of meeting procedure, debate and parliamentary problem solving.
All these students scored well enough to become certified parliamentarians.
All the events help in “building kids’ confidence and preparing them for careers,” Merrell said.
To get these awards, the students outcompeted thousands of other FFA members.
This year’s success will help inspire the next generation of FFA students.
“Success breeds success,” Merrell said. “It’s inspiring for younger members to be able to have something to shoot for and try to achieve.”