Turlock, Pitman, Turlock Christian, Denair, Hilmar and Hughson high schools were all honored to some magnitude at the 96th National FFA Convention & Expo in Indianapolis, Indiana on Nov. 4 as members from each chapter have earned the prestigious American FFA award, which is bestowed upon a select group of students in recognition of their years of academic and professional excellence.

Turlock’s Cameron Crutcher, Elizabeth Gomez-Vega, Lexy Lockmiller, Hadynn McCormick, Madison Mendes and Rafael Sanchez, Pitman’s Dezire Criswell, Taylor Vannest and Jillian Heidman, Turlock Christian’s Ian McFarlane, Denair’s Destiny Lema, Shayln Gomes and Conner Prock, Hilmar’s Tatiana Souza and Morgan Oliveira and Hughson’s Grace Harkrader, Kristen Larsen and Jasmine Delgado all received the award this year. 

Less than one percent of FFA members achieve the American FFA Degree. It recognizes demonstrated ability and outstanding achievements in agricultural business, production, processing or service programs. To be eligible, FFA members must have earned at least $10,000 or earned at least $2,000 and worked at least 2,250 hours outside of class time through a supervised agricultural experience program in which they own their own business, hold a professional position as an employee or conduct research. Recipients must also complete 50 hours of community service and demonstrate outstanding leadership abilities and civic involvement through completion of a long list of FFA and community activities.