Fredericktown FFA members attend National Convention; alum earns American Degree

Eight members of the Fredericktown FFA chapter traveled to Indianapolis to attend the 98th annual National FFA Convention from Oct. 29 to Nov. 1. This major event, hosted by the National FFA Organization, brings members together from all across the country. During the convention, attendees hear from guest speakers and watch as members receive the American FFA Degree, the highest honor an FFA member can earn.

While at the convention, the Fredericktown members attended the second general session. They heard a speech from the United States Secretary of Agriculture and listened to the retiring address of the Eastern Region Vice President, Caroline Groth. After the session, the group went shopping at the National FFA Mall and attended the Buckeye Bash, a special event held just for Ohio chapters.

The following day, the members visited the Indianapolis Zoo, where they saw various animals and even got to pet baby kangaroos. Following the zoo, they toured Teters, an organic farm, to learn about the processes of sustainable agriculture and environmental management. To cap off the day, the group attended a rodeo dedicated to FFA members.

On their final day, the members returned to the Convention Center early in the morning. They were there to support one of Fredericktown's own, former member Kacie Rook, as she received her American FFA Degree. Rook’s Supervised Agricultural Experiences ranged from paid placements and entrepreneurship to in-depth research. The chapter is extremely proud of Kacie and her achievements.