West FFA reaches new heights at convention

Published 12:00 am Thursday, December 20, 2018

Members of the West Rowan High School FFA attended the 91st National FFA Convention in Indianapolis on Oct. 2427.

Three teams from the chapter competed, including agriculture issues, agriculture communications and marketing. Advisers Jason Chester, Tori Cardea, Matthew Owen and Alex Silliman attended.

The marketing team included Parker Greene, Ryley Corriher and MacKenna Clifton. This competition was sponsored by Bunge North America and The Context Network. The team placed first in the nation, earning the title of National Winners. Each member was awarded a $1,000 scholarship. Chester is the team adviser.

The agriculture issues team consisted of Morgan Rogers, Jack Wilhelm, Mayerlin Alpizar, Sierra Lambert, Alex Keadle and Carly Burleyson. This event was sponsored by Elanco Animal Health and Syngenta. The team placed fifth in the nation as first-time national competitors. Chester is the team adviser.

The agricultural communications team included Taylor Walton, Rebekah Russell, Chloe Patterson and Jessie Cline. The competition was sponsored by OsbornBarr and Valent USA Corp. The team placed seventh in the nation as first-time national competitors. Cardea is the team adviser.

The West Rowan FFA Chapter was awarded the Outstanding Alumni Affiliate Award.

Chloe Patterson was a national finalist for the Fruit Production Proficiency Award and was awarded $500.

Dalton Kepley was a national finalist in the Agricultural Mechanics Proficiency Award and was awarded $500.

The West Rowan FFA Chapter was recognized as a National 3 Star for the National Chapter Award.

Throughout the convention, students were able to visit the career fair and FFA Mega Shop, attend sessions held by national officers, sit in on competing teams, attend a rodeo, hear Garth Brooks in concert and hear President Donald Trump speak.