South Dakota FFA members will discover how to “Reach for the Sky” at Summer Leadership Training

South Dakota FFA Association annual Leadership Retreat participants attend the lighting and flag ceremony at Mount Rushmore on July 11, honoring service men and women as well as recognizing importance of patriotism. Wearing official dress, Sturgis FFA members included Taylor Hise, Brinley Olson, Jenna Odle, Baillie Mutchler, Andrea Collins, Miranda Mullen, Kailin Lemmel and Heidi Haivala.

The South Dakota FFA Association conducted its annual Leadership Retreat July 10 - 13 at Camp Bob Marshall, Custer. A total of 105 FFA members in grades 7 – 12 attended from across South Dakota.

The Sturgis FFA Chapter had two officers, Sentinel Andrea Collins and Reporter Heidi Haivala in addition to members Taylor Hise, Brinley Olson, Jenna Odle, Baillie Mutchler, Miranda Mullen, Kailin Lemmel in attendance.

The retreats centered on Toy Story theme, challenging students to “Reach for the Sky.” FFA members developed and enhanced their leadership skills and self-confidence through interactive learning. The program featured workshops that helped members discover personal strengths, create a personal vision plan, set goals, understand diversity and teamwork, and identify opportunities in FFA. They will use these new skills and ideas to benefit their local chapters and communities. Retreat attendees also participated in a service learning project in conjunction with the Custer Area Chamber of Commerce.

The retreats were directed by the 2012-2013 State FFA Officers: President, Taylor Leonhardt, Groton; Vice President, Andy Rausch, Hoven; Secretary, Ashley Tonak, Willow Lake; Treasurer, Tyler Swan, Newell; Reporter, Kelli Garry, Lake Preston; and Sentinel, Savanna Sperle, Reva. Retreat staff also included Liz Dahl, Beresford; and Darin Stoecker, Hoven; SD FFA Ambassadors.

The retreat was sponsored by the SD Department of Agriculture, East River Electric, Northland Ford, and the SD FFA Foundation.