One of the highlights of the Indiana State FFA Convention is naming of the Stars over Indiana. This year was no exception. Students who have excelled in their supervised agricultural experience programs (SAE) in FFA throughout their careers were recognized onstage before more than 400 Hoosier state degrees were awarded to other FFA members.

The Hoosier degree is the highest degree an FFA member can earn in Indiana before applying for his or her American degree. The degree is awarded to students who successfully meet certain levels of achievement with their FFA project and perform several different FFA leadership activities.

Those recognized as Indiana Section and State Stars have gone above and beyond in their SAE programs. From the Section winners, one member is selected in each of four categories to be a State Star. The program originally began decades ago, when only Star Farmers were recognized. Now other Stars are recognized as well. 

Ally Laker was recognized as the state Star in Agriscience. She hails from the DeKalb FFA Chapter in Indiana. She was recognized for her work in agriculture-based research related to her SAE and FFA program. Her research also tied in with ag classroom activities.

The state Star in Ag Placement went to Drake Davis of Southmont FFA in Montgomery County, Indiana. His SAE was based on working for someone else instead of owning his own enterprise.

The Star in Agribusiness was Noah Poynter, North Putnam FFA in Indiana. Students competing in this category are considered entrepreneurs; they have their own business or are starting a business.

The state Star Farmer was Tyler Jester of Monroe Central FFA in eastern Indiana. Jester has ownership of livestock of several different species and does most of the work by himself. His goal is to continue to build his livestock enterprises and become a recognized livestock breeder across the state.

All four winners were announced at one time in a celebration that included indoor fireworks. Congratulations to all 2018 State Stars!