The Stewartsville and Osborn FFA chapter traveled to Columbia, Missouri for the 94th annual State FFA Convention. There, contest teams competed against the best of the best to see who could conquer the state. Many members were awarded proficiency and state degrees.

On Wednesday April 20th, 30 kids, one advisor, and one amazing bus driver loaded the bus and headed south for the State Convention. Upon arrival, they got checked into their hotel and went to the mall for a little bit before returning to the hotel.

Thursday morning, bright and early all contest teams including Agronomy, Nursery, Soils, and Livestock judging groups left the hotel for Mizzou’s campus to compete. Delegates and Courtesy Corps also went to the campus to various events at the basketball stadium.

Livestock Judging team member Skylar Wrenn said, “They had really nice cattle there for judging. I enjoyed looking at good quality livestock while making my reasons and talking about them.”

On Thursday night, students attended the opening ceremonies and proficiency awards were handed out. There, Lane Keller was awarded first place in Area 1 for Sheep Production, and Braxton Gibson was awarded first in Area 1 for Diversified Crop Production. Gibson said, “It was really cool to receive an award about something I am very passionate about. Next year I hope to win my area in another field and get my state degree.”

On Friday morning, students were able to attend a career fair where students could learn about agriculture-related careers and schools that offered agricultural education programs. Later that day, students attended the closing ceremonies. During the final ceremonies, Lane Keller, Alan Corkins, Reese Walker, Chesney Ishmael, Gracey Sheppard, and Ashley Kauth were awarded their state degrees. Students left Columbia Friday night and returned home.

The next FFA event is the annual banquet where new officers will take the oath of office.