11/01/12 An elite group of Plymouth FFA members recently attended the 85th National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, IN held October 24-27, 2012.  Earlier this summer, Plymouth FFA was named a “Big 10 Chapter” in Indiana and a Model of Innovation Winner for their community service efforts.  This honor advanced the Plymouth FFA on to compete at the national level where they were recently named a 3-Star Chapter-the highest rank/honor an FFA chapter can receive.  There are over 7,400 FFA Chapters across the United States.  660 chapters were selected to compete on the national level, 314 were named 3-Star Chapters.

The Plymouth FFA was recognized for their significant accomplishments at the 85th National FFA Convention.  Members representing the chapter at National Convention were: Makayla Depoy, Sarah Lindvall, Lilly Bottorff, Katelyn Hollar, Lauren Goddard, Kara Gustafson, Taylor Shively, and Megan Snyder.  While attending convention, chapter president, Makayla Depoy and chapter advisor, Kelli Kreider attended an invitation only dinner held in honor of National 3-Star Chapters.  Along with Depoy and Kreider, chapter officers, Sarah Lindvall (Vice president), Katelyn Hollar (Secretary), and Lilly Bottorff (Treasurer) were photographed for an official National Chapter photo.  Televised live on RFD-TV, Depoy and Lindvall accepted the national award on stage at convention on Thursday October 25.

While at convention, members were able to take advantage of meeting with multiple agricultural business leaders and visit with potential colleges.  Members also heard from Olympic Gold Medalist, Scott Hamilton as he shared his inspiring life story.

Upon returning to Plymouth late Thursday, October 25, Kreider went back to convention October 26-27 with PHS FFA alumni, Katelynn Penny.  Katelynn received her American FFA Degree Saturday October 27.  “The Plymouth FFA Chapter was honored to bring home two of the most highly respected and sought after awards- A National 3-Star Award and an “American Degree,” says Kreider.  “I could not be more proud of our chapter accomplishments this past year.  The members traveling to convention have served as true examples of premier leadership and personal growth.”

PHOTO:  Left to right with their national award:

Front row: Chapter advisor, Kelli Kreider, Kaitlyn Hollar, Lauren Goddard, Makayla Depoy, Megan Snyder

Back row: Lilly Bottorff, Taylor Shively, Kara Gustafson, Sarah Lindvall