COOKEVILLE, TN— On June 6, The Tennessee Future Farmers of America (FFA) Association’s five Stars presented at a luncheon for the Southern Association of State Departments of Agriculture (SASDA) during the Third Annual Tennessee FFA Star Tour. The students were invited to participate in the SASDA Conference by Tennessee Commissioner of Agriculture Jai Templeton. 

During this meeting, the Stars gave an interactive presentation on their Supervised Agricultural Experiences or projects, which is a requirement of every FFA member. The Stars discussed their passion for production agriculture and research, while learning more about the Commissioners and the vital role they play in agriculture in their state and region. From there, the group enjoyed a luncheon with the Commissioners and other special guests before continuing their Star Tour. 

The 2017 Stars are: Star Farmer, Catherine Turner, Covington; Star in Agribusiness, Austin Akers, Cumberland County; Star in Agricultural Placement, Will Turner, Covington; Star in Agriscience, Erin Wakefield, Fayetteville City; and Star Greenhand, John Melhorn, Meigs County. Star recognition is awarded to the top students in five areas who best demonstrate superior Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) projects. 

FFA makes a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education. Nationally, there are 649,355 FFA members, aged 12-21. The Tennessee FFA Association is comprised of 14,084 members from 214 high school chapters, 7 middle school chapters, and 8 collegiate chapters across the state of Tennessee.

(Photo Caption: FFA Stars present to the Southern Association of State Departments of Agriculture during a conference at the Renaissance Hotel in Nashville.) 

(Photo caption: FFA Stars are photographed with 12 Commissioners of Agriculture from across the Southern region of the United States.)