The West Rowan FFA chapter attended the 81st North Carolina State FFA Convention in Raleigh June 23-25.
The chapter was recognized as the top FFA Chapter in North Carolina. Eighteen students attended the convention and participated in career development events, attended sessions and were recognized for the outstanding efforts in their individual supervised agriculture experiences.
The agriculture marketing team was recognized for winning the state competition held in March. Team members were Erika Scott, Coleman Phifer and Leah Collins. The dairy foods team competed during the convention and finished second in the state. Team members were Leigha McIntyre, Phifer, Steven Wetmore, Alex Yost and Megan Wilhelm.
Beverly Hampton placed third in the prepared public speaking contest with a speech on agritourism. The parliamentary procedure team also competed during the convention. Team members were Madison Bell, Hampton, Phillip Stringer, Jackson Scott, Will Holloway and Erika Scott.
The following students were announced state winners in their proficiency award area as recognition for their excellent work in their supervised agriculture experience program: Evan Clifton, floriculture; Ashton Schleicher, equine science entrepreneurship; Beverly Hampton, equine science placement; Ben Ketchie, dairy; Garin Kluttz, diversified crop production; Dillon Ridling, beef production; Zach Myers, forestry; Coleman Phifer, turf grass; Erika Scott, swine production; Laura Watson, vegetable production.
The following students finished second in their proficiency award areas: Garin Kluttz, grain production and beef production; Claire Steele, poultry production; Beverly Hampton, specialty animal production; Dillon Ridling, agriculture service and diversified agriculture; Ricky Moore, landscape placement.
The West Rowan FFA Alumni Chapter was also recognized as the Outstanding Alumni Program in the state as well as being the largest.
The West Rowan FFA Chapter has 192 active members. Chapter advisers are Clark Adams and Jason Chester.