The first day of the 89th Kansas FFA Convention featured an opportunity for high school students to explore potential careers; recognition of student success in the FFA creed speaking, agricultural issues, ritual demonstration and parliamentary procedure career development events; and a challenge to members from a retiring state FFA officer.

The opening session welcomed Kansas FFA members, advisors and guests to Manhattan and announced the first of many individual and team honors that will be granted to members during the week.

Caitlin Parks from Holton is this year’s FFA Creed Public Speaking winner and received a plaque and cash award. After being announced as the winner, she presented the FFA Creed to members and guests in attendance at the opening session of the Kansas FFA Convention.

The students’ knowledge as displayed in the variety of CDE competitions propelled Labette County FFA to place first in the Sweepstakes contest. Louisburg FFA earned second and Buhler FFA was awarded third place.

Clay Center FFA was awarded first place in the Parliamentary Procedure CDE. Mission Valley FFA placed second, Southern Coffey FFA placed third and Girard FFA placed fourth.

Buhler FFA faced off against Ellsworth FFA in the final round on the opening day of the state convention. Buhler won, and Ellsworth placed second. In the previous round, Girard FFA came in third and Norton FFA placed fourth.

The Buhler FFA chapter was awarded first place in the Ritual Demonstration CDE. Central Heights FFA placed second, Jayhawk-Linn FFA received third and Chapman FFA placed fourth.

All members in attendance were challenged by the message to continue to seek personal growth delivered by kick-off speaker Tom Thelen. Thelen is the Founder of the Victimproof Bullying Prevention Program. As one of America’s top youth motivational speakers, he has spoken at over 500 schools, colleges, and youth organizations. His message helps schools create a positive culture and shows students how to be the change.

State FFA Sentinel Trenton Smedley gave his retiring address after reflecting on his year of service.

Following the session, members enjoyed the FFA Alumni Dodgeball Tournament at the K-State Rec Center.

Earlier in the day, members attended the 16th Annual Convention Career Show and interacted with agribusinesses and other professionals to learn more about their future opportunities after high school graduation.

Convention continues tomorrow with recognition of the 42 proficiency award winners who were selected for accomplishing specific career goals in their supervised agricultural experience programs. The top individuals in the prepared and extemporaneous speaking career development events will be announced and the recipients of the honorary degree and distinguished service award will be recognized. See you all tomorrow!