The American FFA Degree is the highest honor FFA members can receive in their career. 

Community R-6 FFA adviser Stacy French explained that the degree recognizes years of dedication spent through the supervised agricultural experiences, leadership development and community service.

“This accomplishment reflects a long-term commitment, as members must set the goal early in their FFA careers and work diligently to meet the national requirements,” French said in an email.

Students are eligible to apply for their American FFA Degree so long as they meet the numerous requirements set forth by the National FFA Constitution Article IV. 

To be considered, the FFA member must:

• Have already received a State FFA degree indicating he or she is an active member who has satisfied both chapter and state participation requirements 
• Complete agricultural instruction through at least three years (540 hours) of systematic secondary school, 360 hours of systematic secondary school and one full year of postsecondary education or by completing the program offered in the secondary school they last attended
• Graduate high school at least 12 months before the national convention where he or she is  to be recognized
• Maintain records of their SAEs that exhibit comprehensive planning and managerial and financial expertise
• Earn at least $10,000 and productively invest $7,500 or earn and productively invest $2,000 and work 2,250 hours outside of the classroom
• Maintain a “C” average in school while having a record of outstanding leadership and community involvement 
• Have at least 50 hours of community service within at least three different activities

Students applied for their American FFA Degrees in January. Their applications go through a state screening process and a national screening process before they make their way to the national board of directors that meets in July.

Nineteen area students will be recognized at the 98th National FFA Convention and Expo Oct. 29 – Nov. 1 in Indianapolis.

Mexico 

Jack Norfleet, who is attending State Technical College pursuing a degree in ag business. 

Nick Haines, who is attending the University of Missouri pursuing a degree in ag business and a member of Alpha Gamma Rho. 

Nick Van Schyndel, who is attending the University of Missouri pursuing a degree in general agriculture. 

Community R-6

Aaron Carter, who is attending Missouri S&T majoring in engineering.

Dylan Hoyt, who is attending University of Missouri majoring in plant science.

Brant Cope, who has completed a welding program at Iron Eagle Welding Academy and is currently working.

Olivia Schafer, who is attending the University of Missouri majoring in the pre-pharmacy program.

Zachary Love, who is attending State Technical College of Missouri majoring in electrical systems.

Mason Rohan, who is attending State Fair Community College majoring in wildlife management.

Van-Far

Carmen Wilburn, who is attending the University of Missouri as an agricultural education major.

Kristian Shaw, who is attending Columbia College for nursing.

Katelyn McCurdy, who is attending the University of Missouri pursuing a nursing degree. 

Centralia

Shelby Lewis, who is attending the University of Missouri to pursue a degree in nursing.

Michael Marcellus, who is attending Missouri State University majoring in ag education. 

Blair Schnarre, who is attending Kansas State University majoring in animal science. 

Kaelyn Walters, who is attending Western Illinois University studying secondary mathematics education. 

North Callaway 

Katie Bernicky, who is attending the University of Missouri majoring in Plant Science- Crop Management and Landscape Design. She is also working on her precision agricultural certificate and honors certificate. 

Tyler Huddleston, who is attending the University of Missouri majoring in plant science with minors in agricultural system technology and agribusiness. He is also working on the precision agricultural certificate.

Lauren Riecke, who is attending MACC and pursuing a degree in nursing.