LEXINGTON, KY.-Members of the Williamsburg FFA Chapter recently represented their school and community with pride at the Kentucky FFA State Convention in Lexington, earning numerous recognitions and showcasing the continued growth of the chapter.
Among the highlights, seniors Emily Cooper and Zaden Housekeeper presented their Agriscience Fair research project in the Animal Systems Division. Their project focused on evaluating chick health through egg weight and hatchability data, developing a poultry adaptation of the APGAR scoring system used in human medicine. The team earned 2nd Place in the State Agriscience Fair Division 6 – Animal Systems competition.
Williamsburg FFA also celebrated two members receiving one of the organization’s highest honors, the Kentucky FFA State Degree. Emily Cooper and Cabela Johnson were recognized for their outstanding achievements in agricultural education, leadership, and supervised agricultural experiences.
The chapter was additionally recognized for earning a Bronze Chapter Rating and received an award for High School Membership Growth through the National Affiliation Program, made possible through the support of the Whitley County Farm Bureau, which covers membership dues so that all students enrolled in agriculture classes can participate in FFA at no cost.
A special highlight of the convention was the participation of chapter president Zaden Housekeeper, who completed the rigorous interview process as a candidate for Kentucky FFA State Office. Housekeeper has already made history as Williamsburg’s first Kentucky FFA State Degree recipient, first regional FFA officer, and Kentucky Ag Athlete of the Year recipient. His candidacy reflected the leadership development opportunities available through the Williamsburg FFA program.
“These students continue to set new standards of excellence for our chapter,” said Williamsburg FFA Advisor Toraleah Shelley. “Their hard work, dedication, and willingness to serve others have helped establish a strong foundation for agricultural education and leadership in our school and community.”
The Williamsburg FFA Chapter continues to grow and provide students with opportunities in leadership, career development, agricultural literacy, and community service while representing Williamsburg with pride across the Commonwealth.
