Financial support behind the Wisconsin FFA is once again over the half-million dollar mark. During the 93rd Wisconsin FFA Convention in Madison on Tuesday, State FFA Foundation Board President Jesse Kreke announced that giving and sponsorships are now back to pre-COVID levels as total contributions exceeded $535,000. And she also shared with the audience an aggressive campaign goal for the 2022-23 fiscal year.
"Being that the Foundation is about to celebrate its 40th year, we are putting together a major challenge to raise more than $1 million over the next 12 months," Kreke said. "Students deserve our support. So we are tapping into leaders of the industry, parents, businesses and everyone who believes in the future of agriculture. We can do this."
The state FFA officer team also announced that membership in the organization has reach an all-time high of 23,190 members. And they presented Princeton High School students with an FFA Charter certificate.
Also on Tuesday, student members were recognized in various Leadership Development Events. Winners included Symone Ciran, Richland Center, Discussion Meet; Ethan Jackowski, Big Foot, Extemporaneous Speaking; Kate Davis, Oregon, Prepared Public Speaking; Amy Jentges, Random Lake, Employment Skills; and Eric Allen, Denmark, Creed Speaking. The New London FFA won the Jr. High Quiz Bowl Contest; Menonomine earned top honors for Parli Pro; and Marshfield Middle School scored highest for the Conduct of Meetings competition.
Individual Proficiency Award winners were also recognized on stage. All of the state winners will advance to national competition this fall at the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Attendees were also motivated throughout the day by various speakers, including National FFA Vice President Cortney Zimmerman of Spencer and barrel racing champion Amberley Snyder.
The convention continues on Wednesday with more award announcements like the State FFA Star Awards, adult recognition, the induction of candidates earning their State FFA Degrees, and the naming of the 2022-23 state officer team. The conference wraps-up on Thursday with the naming of the National Chapter Award winner and the announcement of the new state FFA president.
Categories: Wisconsin, Business