Contributed STATE CONVENTION – Edison FFA members in attendance include, pictured front from left, Jaidyn Carlson, Kaden Eddy, Chloe Cornish, Payton Court, Bella Evans, Mimi Ault, Ellie Richards and Leila Sudvary. Back: Chase Shell, J.J. Reynolds, Wes Moore, Austin Waggoner, Micah Larkins, Jon Whitlatch, Noah Lucas, Lena Wagner, Kloe Riley, and Maddie Granatir.

RICHMOND — Members of the Edison High School FFA attended the Ohio FFA Convention in Columbus, participating in leadership and educational activities while earning recognition for chapter and individual achievements.

Eighteen members attended the convention April 29-May 1, taking part in sessions featuring motivational speakers, a career fair and educational tours highlighting opportunities within the agriculture industry.

The Edison chapter also was recognized as a Chapter Trust Donor after contributing $1,000 to the Ohio FFA Foundation.

“The chapter also received recognition for its charitable efforts, including constructing and donating a blessing box for the Richmond Lions Club and providing fruit to the Amsterdam Food Bank,” adviser Kelli Pridemore said.

Several members earned honors for individual accomplishments during the convention. Chapter Treasurer Maddie Granatir received a gold rating for her treasurer’s book, while Lena Wagner earned a gold rating for her work as chapter reporter.

Meanwhile, the chapter’s state equine evaluation team placed second in the state competition. Team members Mimi Ault, Maddie Granatir, Ellie Richards and Leila Sudvary qualified to compete at the World Paint Horse Judging Contest in Fort Worth, Texas, in June.

The convention concluded with the presentation of State FFA Degrees, one of the organization’s highest state-level honors. Bella Evans and Jon Whitlatch were among those receiving the recognition.

The State FFA Degree is awarded to members who demonstrate commitment to FFA through leadership, academic achievement and Supervised Agricultural Experience programs. Recipients must be active in FFA for at least two years, complete agricultural education coursework, develop a successful SAE program and participate in leadership and community service activities.

Pridemore said students also toured ST Genetics, a research farm housing more than 4,000 dairy animals.

“The students had the opportunity to observe robotic milking systems, interact with the cows and learn about the daily operations of a modern dairy facility,” Pridemore said.

Students also visited the new Multi-Species Animal Learning Complex at The Ohio State University, where they explored the livestock facility and observed the university’s dairy operation.