Bend FFA chapter earns honors at the 98th National FFA Convention and Expo
KTVZ
The Bend FFA chapter has been recognized in 2025 National Chapter Award Program from the National FFA Organization. They were given a 2-star ranking – truly a mark of their exceptionalism. Fewer than 10% of chapters nationwide are given a ranking from the National FFA Organization.
The National Chapter Award Program recognizes outstanding FFA chapters from across the country that actively implement the mission and strategies of the organization. These chapters improve chapter operations using the National Quality FFA Chapter Standards and a Program of Activities that emphasizes growing leaders, building communities and strengthening agriculture. Chapters are rewarded for providing educational experiences for the entire membership.
Chapters received star ratings during judging this summer and will be recognized at the 98th National FFA Convention & Expo, Oct 29-Nov 1. All star-rated FFA chapters receive honors made possible by corporate sponsors Bayer, Cargill Protein, Case IH, John Deere, Syngenta, and Rabobank.
Bend FFA member Jael Cruikshank is the Oregon FFA National Officer Candidate to compete for one of six National FFA officer positions.
Thirty-seven out of 1 million FFA members nationwide have been chosen to compete for national office at the 98th National FFA Convention and Expo this October, marking a significant milestone in their leadership journeys and showcasing their commitment to FFA and agriculture. These six officers will lead the National FFA Organization during their year of service and be the ambassadors for the organization.
The process to become a national officer is arduous, with the candidates taking part in a multi-day, extensive interview process with the National FFA Officer Nominating Committee. The committee is comprised of students and adult advisors who interview and select the six national officers.
It takes a highly motivated person to become a successful National FFA Officer—an opportunity afforded to few members. Becoming a national officer requires members to learn about their passions and gain a better understanding of what life as a national officer is like. The life of a national officer is nonstop hard work and never-ending commitments, but it is a life-changing experience—one they will cherish forever.
The American FFA Degree is bestowed upon a select group of FFA members in recognition of their years of academic and professional excellence. This year over 5,200 American Degrees were awarded. Kate Schimmoller & Danika Kuck, members of the Bend FFA chapter will be awarded the American FFA Degree at the 98th National FFA Convention & Expo on November 1, 2025.
Sponsored by Bayer, Cargill, Case IH, John Deere, Rabobank, and Syngenta, the award recognizes demonstrated ability and outstanding achievements in agricultural business, production, processing, or service programs.
To be eligible, FFA members must have earned at least $10,000 or earned at least $2,000 and worked at least 2,250 hours outside of class time through a supervised agricultural experience (SAE) program in which they own their own business, hold a professional position as an employee, or conduct research.
Recipients must also complete 50 hours of community service and demonstrate outstanding leadership abilities and civic involvement through the completion of a long list of FFA and community activities. Only .5% percent of FFA members achieve the American FFA Degree.
After being recognized at the national convention, each recipient of the American FFA Degree receives a gold American FFA Degree key and certificate.
The National FFA Organization is a school-based national youth leadership development organization of more than 1,042,245 student members as part of 9,407 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
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About National FFA Organization The National FFA Organization is a school-based national youth leadership development organization of more than 1,042,245 student members as part of 9,407 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The FFA mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. For more, visit the National FFA Organization online at FFA.org and on Facebook and Twitter.