While all FFA chapters strive to be exemplary, some go above and beyond to showcase true FFA leadership. These chapters are named Model of Excellence chapters and showcase qualities in all categories of growing leaders, building communities and strengthening agriculture.
Only 10 high school and five middle school chapters are chosen to hold this prestigious title, but just one high school and one middle school chapter can be named the overall national winner.
The Signal Knob Middle FFA Chapter from Virginia took home this year’s top honor.
Chapter vice president Piper Dellinger came off the stage filled with excitement after receiving their award. “I feel so great because I’ve seen a lot of work get put in during the year. It feels amazing to get that gifted back to us,” she says.
“I am incredibly proud, adds Signal Knob Middle FFA advisor Dakota Stroud. “We put a lot of work into our Program of Activities to ensure that it meets the needs of our students, school and community. And for our chapter to have this recognition is just amazing. It’s a testament to our members’ hard work.”
So what does it take to become a Model of Excellence winner? In addition to writing scripts, preparing virtual presentations and planning service projects, “I would say just work hard and do your best. If you participate in a lot of activities, you will start going up and up in ranks and just work hard,” says Signal Knob Middle FFA member Emmalee Hamrick.
“Focus on your classroom first, then start to dive more into FFA and let your members run it,” Stroud offers to fellow advisors. “They’re capable of way more than you think, especially at the middle school level.”
Use the audio player below to listen to this story (Download).
