FFA members from across South Dakota gathered at the state organization’s 95th convention in Brookings in April for competitions, philanthropy and networking. Over 5,000 students from 109 chapters make up South Dakota FFA.

The National Chapter Award is the highest honor an FFA chapter can receive and recognizes a chapter’s implementation of FFA’s mission and strategies. South Dakota’s top chapters have developed an active program of activities, conducted meaningful events and completed at least 15 activities — one for each of the five quality standards.

Superior chapters included Bereford, McCook Central, Brookings, Howard and Bridgewater-Emery, winning in the categories of growing leaders, building communities and strengthening agriculture. Here are the rankings for the National Chapter Award:

First-place finisher McCook Central has 167 members, who helped clean properties after a derecho storm ravaged the community, provided food to residents in need and hosted an educational field event, where members could connect with local stakeholders. The members also secured funding for a hoop barn at the local fairgrounds to house 20 animals and provide hands-on opportunities for members who do not have access to their own livestock facilities. Their FFA advisors are Tracy Chase and Terry Rieckman.

Other honors awarded were the State FFA Stars. Winning individuals spent hours working on their projects while developing technical skills. Finalists were interviewed by a panel of judges. This year’s stars follow:

STATE STAR: The 2023 South Dakota FFA State Star Farmer award went to Landon Roling of McCook Central. Roling is pictured with parents Ben and Jennifer, Lindsey Haskell of Farm Credit Services of America, and FFA advisors Terry Rieckman and Tracy Chase. (South Dakota FFA)

Each star receives a $400 cash award, sponsored by Farm Credit Services of America, the Dan Streff Family and Glacial Lakes Energy LLC.

New officers chosen

The convention also names the six state officers for the coming year. The new officers will travel across the state presenting speeches, facilitating workshops, hosting camps and conferences, and conducting business for the South Dakota FFA Association. The officers for 2023-24 are:

NEW OFFICERS: The 2023-24 state officer team includes President Alyssa Feather (left), Vice President Dustin Kolb, Secretary Raesa Zelinsky, Treasurer Gretta Larson, Reporter Gabrielle Rebelein and Sentinel Emily Robbins. (South Dakota FFA)

These officers will also represent South Dakota during the National FFA Convention.

South Dakota FFA contributed to this article.