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Banquet Awards Sponsored By:
This year's banquet was held at Louisa County High School Gym on May 1, 2026. Over 300 members, parents, faculty, and community members were present to celebrate the accomplishments of the the Louisa FFA Middle and High School Chapters.
For the 2nd year in a row, our awards were sponsored through a grant from the Virginia Horse Industry Board.
Discovery Degree: The Discovery FFA Degree is designed for middle school members and recognizes students who are beginning their journey in agricultural education and FFA. Members learn about the organization’s basic history, values, and opportunities while participating in chapter activities and exploring agricultural pathways. This degree encourages early involvement, leadership development, and hands-on learning through agricultural experiences and Supervised Agricultural Experiences (SAEs).
Ada Edelberg, Ava Hutchins, Chloe Napolitano, Connor Stafford, Eli Graham, Abram Hurd, Gage Sather, Abby Allen, ALanna Ellis, Avery Millway, Lauren Wray, Cash Fisher, Teagan Stumpf
Greenhand Degree: The Greenhand FFA Degree is the first degree members can earn in FFA and recognizes students who have demonstrated an understanding of FFA history, traditions, opportunities, and the basics of agricultural education. Members must learn about the organization, develop a Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE), and become actively involved in chapter activities. Earning the Greenhand Degree marks the beginning of a student's journey in leadership, personal growth, and agricultural education through FFA.
Abby Tomlin, Annabeth Houser, Waylon Belew, Sophie Mechling, Fallon Shaw, Mattie France, Olivia Harrier, Gabby McGinley, Morgan Hackler, Allie Bacon, Luke Farrar, Austyn Frame, Kira Chiavacci, Caylah Medeiros, Sarah Tomlin, Natalie Whitby, Fiona Ariel, Lauren Hockman
Chapter Degree:The Chapter FFA Degree recognizes members who have demonstrated continued involvement and growth in FFA and agricultural education. Students must show active participation in chapter activities, maintain or develop a Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE), and apply their agricultural knowledge in and out of the classroom. Earning this degree reflects a commitment to leadership, responsibility, and continued personal and career development within FFA.
Annabeth Houser, Levi Burkett, Ashlynn Schroyer, Lucy Ward, Riley Souther, Anayah Jackson, Chase Preddy, Garrett Rosson, John Ward, Kira Chiavacci, Sarah Tomlin, Lauren Hockman
State Degree: The State FFA Degree is one of the highest honors a state association can award and recognizes members who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to FFA, agricultural education, and their Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE). Students must meet rigorous requirements, including significant SAE involvement, leadership experience, and active participation in chapter and state-level activities.
Earning the State FFA Degree reflects strong commitment, responsibility, and achievement in agricultural education, and prepares members for future success in careers, leadership roles, and continued involvement in agriculture.
Lily Hix, Ashlynn Schroyer, Savannah Edwards
American Degree: The American FFA Degree is the highest degree of membership in the National FFA Organization and recognizes students who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, dedication, and achievement in agricultural education. Members must complete significant Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) hours, show strong academic performance, and actively participate in FFA at the chapter, state, and national levels.
Emma Alexander
High School Officer Team 2025-2026: High School Officer Team 2026-2027:
Anayah Jackson, Savannah Edwards, Garrett Rosson, Riley Souther, Kayla Haase
Kayla Haase, Garrett Roson, Lucy Ward, Mattie France, Kira Chiavacci, Anayah Jackson
Lily Hix
Middle School Officer Team 2025-2026:
Abby Allen, Carter Burkett, Parker Thiemann, BayLeigh Brooks, Kadence LaFontaine, Aaliya Akram, August Edelberg, Alanna Ellis
Middle School Officer Team 2026-2027:
Mackenzie Frame, Alice Johnson, Ada Edelberg, Connor Stafford, Chloe Napolitano, Avery Millway, Gage Sather, Eli Graham
Horse Judging and Hippology
Horse Judging and Hippology
Hippology is a team-based CDE where students apply their knowledge of the horse industry through judging, identification, and problem-solving. Teams of four evaluate conformation and performance classes, identify breeds, tack, and equine health topics, and present oral reasons defending their decisions.
This year, Louisa FFA teams competed at major events including the Quarter Horse Congress, State Fair of Virginia, Virginia Tech Block & Bridle Contest, EquiSmartz, and the Virginia State FFA Convention. Through these experiences, students strengthen skills in critical thinking, communication, and equine science.
High School - Ashlynn Schroyer, Abby Tomlin, Kayla Haase, Lucy Ward, Chase Preddy, Anayah Jackson, Sarah Tomlin, Olivia Harrier, Gabby McGinley, Fiona Ariel, Fallon Shaw, Marley Gonzalez, Riley Souther
Middle School -Abigale Allen, Ember Cassell, Ada Edelberg, Kadence LaFontaine, Avery Millway, Isla Thompson, Alice Johnson, Ava Hutchins, Lauren Wray
Livestock Judging and Stockman's Contest
The Livestock Judging Career Development Event is designed for students interested in evaluating cattle, sheep, goats, and swine. Participants learn to assess animals based on industry standards and the traits producers consider when selecting breeding stock and market animals.
Students develop their knowledge of livestock production, breed characteristics, anatomy, carcass quality, and management practices through written examinations and hands-on judging classes. Competitors evaluate and rank classes of animals while defending their decisions through oral reasons, strengthening their communication and critical thinking skills.
Gage Sather, Parker Thiemann, Savannah King, Madison Hoback, Chloe Napolitano, Teagan Stumpf, Nate Capozella, Kody Hill
Turf Management
The Turf Management CDE helps students develop skills in turfgrass science and maintenance for athletic fields, golf courses, parks, and residential landscapes. Participants identify turf species, weeds, insects, diseases, equipment, and irrigation systems while applying knowledge of soil science and plant health.
The contest builds problem-solving and industry skills that prepare students for careers in turfgrass management, landscaping, and related agricultural fields
Lauren Hockman, Joe Tarry
Veterinary Science
The Veterinary Science CDE allows students to explore animal health, veterinary medicine, and clinical practices. Participants develop skills in anatomy, physiology, disease recognition, handling and restraint, and veterinary terminology.
Students apply their knowledge through hands-on practicums and exams that simulate real-world veterinary procedures. This event prepares students for careers in animal science, veterinary medicine, and related animal health fields.
Tinsley Mulvey, Savannah Edwards, John Ward, Riley Souther
Floral Design/Floriculture
The Floriculture CDE helps students develop skills in floral design, plant identification, and greenhouse production. Participants work with cut flowers, foliage plants, and ornamental materials while learning proper care, handling, and design principles.
Students are evaluated through hands-on floral arrangements, identification of plants and tools, and knowledge of greenhouse and industry practices. This event prepares students for careers in floral design, horticulture, and plant science
Grace Vanderploeg, Kylie McIntire, Bella Breedlove, Sydney Wills
Forestry
The Forestry Field Day event allows FFA members to demonstrate hands-on skills related to the forestry and natural resources industry. Students compete in a series of practical events that highlight teamwork, precision, and safety in the field.
Event areas include the Log Roll, Log Throw, Crosscut Saw, Water Accuracy, and Bow Saw. Each activity challenges students to apply proper technique, coordination, and knowledge of forestry tools and industry practices
High School: Levi Burkett, Lauren Hockman, Lucy Ward, Farrett Rosson, Gabby McGinley, Waylon Below
Middle School: Michael Moore, Lucas Stockton, Parker Thiemann, AUgust Edelberg, Abram Hurd, Cash Fisher, Lane Hardy
Agriculture Issues Forum
The ag mechanics CDE is an all encompassing contest which includes topics about small engines, wood working, welding, electrical wiring, plumbing, concrete/masonry, tractor troubleshooting, land surveying, and more. Students get to practice identification of parts and tools, maintenance and operation, power calculations and measurements, and much more.
Levi Burkett, Garrett Rosson, Lily Hix, Emma Alpern, Abby Bryant
Public Speaking
This leadership development event is a great contest for students wanting to step outside of their comfort zone and practice real-world skills. These speaking skills are directly applicable to all careers; not just agriculture. Students can practice prepared speeches, present the FFA Creed, or present extemporaneous speeches. Students can also participate in demonstrations contests or compete in Parliamentary Procedure debates.
High School - Mattie France, Lily Hix
Middle School - Kipton St. Clair, Mackenzie Frame
Agriscience & Horticulture Demonstration
This event allows participants to present an informative topic related to agriscience through a hands-on demonstration. Students showcase their project to a panel of judges and respond to questions that assess their knowledge, preparation, and communication skills.
High School - Lily Hix
Middle School - August Edelberg, Lane Hardy, BayLeigh Brooks, Elanna Ellis, Carter Burkett, Aaliya Akram
Middle School Agriscience Exploration
The Middle School Agricultural Exploration CDE introduces students to a wide range of agricultural topics and career pathways. Participants demonstrate basic knowledge in areas such as plant science, animal science, natural resources, and agricultural technology.
Mackenzie Frame, Parker Thiemann, Carter Burkett, Kadence LaFontaine, August Edelberg, BayLeigh Brooks, James Wade, Eli Graham, Addy Breedlove, Ada Edelberg, Connor Stafford
Agriscience Fair
The Agriscience Fair allows students to conduct scientific research on agricultural topics and present their findings through a formal display and presentation. Participants use the scientific method to investigate real-world issues in areas such as animal science, plant science, environmental science, and agricultural technology.
Austyn Frame, Garrett Rosson
Middle School Plant Science
The Middle School Plant Science CDE introduces students to the fundamentals of plant growth, identification, and production. Participants explore topics such as plant parts, plant care, soils, and basic horticulture while developing an understanding of the role plants play in agriculture and everyday life.
Carter Burkett, BayLeigh Brooks, Alanna Ellis, Aaliya Akram
Proficiency Awards
FFA Proficiency Awards recognize members who have developed outstanding Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) programs. These awards honor students for their skills, accomplishments, and growth in a specific agricultural area, such as animal systems, plant systems, agribusiness, agricultural communications, and many others.
Emma Alexander - Beef Production
Anayah Jackson - Veterinary Science
Riley Souther - Poultry Production
Lily Hix - Ag Services Placement
Kayla Haase - Equine Services Placement
Employment Skills
The Employment Skills LDE helps students develop and demonstrate the skills needed to successfully seek and obtain employment in the agriculture industry and beyond. Participants complete a mock job application process that typically includes submitting a résumé and cover letter, completing an employment application, and participating in a job interview. Students are evaluated on their communication skills, professionalism, personal appearance, problem-solving abilities, and overall preparedness for entering the workforce.
Emma Alexander
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