CLEMSON UNIVERSITY TO HOST STATE FFA CONVENTION
CLEMSON, SC…Hundreds of Agricultural Education students from secondary schools throughout South Carolina will convene at Clemson University, June 11-13, for the annual State FFA Convention, according to John W. Parris, state director of public affairs with the SC FFA organization.
“The convention will begin Wednesday evening, June 11, with an official welcome by Clemson University President James F. Barker,” Parris said. “The delegates, their advisors, school administrators, financial supporters, parents and other friends of the FFA will hear an address by McBee FFA Alumnus Bill Hendrix of Kiawah Island, Chairman of the Clemson University Board of Trustees, on Thursday evening,” he added.
National FFA Vice President Brady Revels, a junior at the University of Florida where he is majoring in Agricultural Education, will address the conference participants and conduct a leadership seminar.
Outstanding FFA Chapters from throughout the state will be recognized and three will receive the Governor’s Citation of Accomplishment in the categories of Student Development, Chapter Development and Community Development. The citations will be presented by officials with the USDA Farm Service Agency which sponsors the National FFA Chapter Awards and Recognition Program. Additionally, the top chapters will each be awarded $1000 by the SC Rural Rehabilitation Corporation.
Other highlights of the conventioninclude the presentation of college scholarships, awarding of State FFA Degrees and Honorary State FFA Degrees, conducting FFA Career Development Event Finals, recognizing regional and State FFA Stars in Farming, Agribusiness and Agricultural Placement; and the election of new officers for school year 2008-09.
State FFA President Spencer C. McLeod of McBee, along with State Secretary R. Hunter Cooper of Calhoun Falls and State Vice Presidents William Nelson of Clinton; Desiree Kinneer of Indian Land; Heather Coleman of Latta and Brittany Mixson of Cope, will conduct the three day convention. Keith Cox of Latta serves as the state FFA executive secretary-treasurer.
The mission of the FFA 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.