In celebration of the theme, “Illuminate,” more than 3,500 members, advisors, alumni, and agribusiness partners shined the spotlight on FFA as they gathered for the 94th Tennessee FFA Convention held March 27-30 in the Gatlinburg Convention Center.
The annual event is designed to teach members valuable leadership and technical skills, as well as to celebrate the successes of the past year. This convention was extra special to many members because — for over half the students in attendance — it was their first FFA Convention due to the restrictions over the last two years on group gatherings. Back at full capacity, the event celebrated chapter achievements and gave students the opportunity to compete and earn the chance to represent Tennessee at the National FFA Convention in October in Indianapolis.
Among several honorees at the event was Tennessee Farmers Cooperative (TFC) former CEO Bart Krisle, who was recognized for his long tenure on the FFA Sponsoring Committee.
“I was so grateful to be able to watch how FFA made an impact on students during my time at the Co-op,” Krisle said during his comments to attendees. “I can say with confidence that the future of agriculture is in good hands thanks to organizations like the FFA, and I cannot wait to see what all of you accomplish.”
TFC was a primary sponsor of the event and provided awards for the Star in Agribusiness, the Prepared Public Speaking contest, and the Diversified Agricultural and Diversified Livestock Production proficiencies. The Star in Agribusiness award went to Lainey Hutchison of the Crockett County FFA Chapter. Hutchison’s project included an equine business she started in 2018 to provide riding lessons to children 3 to 16. She also trains students in various equine rodeo events such as goat tying, breakaway roping, and barrels.
Emily Gibson of the Bolivar Central FFA Chapter won the Prepared Public Speaking event, Clay Bush of the Paris FFA Chapter was named the state winner in Diversified Livestock Production proficiency, and Emily Lawrence from Crockett County FFA Chapter captured top honors in Diversified Agricultural Production proficiency.
During the convention, a new slate of state officers was selected from a field of 18 candidates. Those wishing to serve as a state officer went through a rigorous interview process that consisted of a knowledge exam, a letter-writing exercise, and individual and group interviews that evaluated the candidates’ leadership qualities and understanding of agricultural issues. The process was scored by a 12-member nominating committee comprised of six FFA members — two from each region — and six adult members composed of agribusiness leaders and ag educators.
The newly elected State FFA officers for 2022-23 are President Taylor Cantrell, Dyer County; Secretary Faith Cook, Wilson Central; West Tennessee Vice President Jarrett Tubbs, Scotts Hill; East Tennessee Vice President Jay Caldwell, Science Hill; Middle Tennessee Vice President Hannah Maddle, Monterey; Treasurer Garren Hamby, Eagleville; Reporter Anna Collins, Sycamore; and Sentinel Scarlett Cook, Dickson.