News : Vinton Shellsburg FFA Chapter Shines at 97th National Convention

Members Izzie Birker, Alana Fleming, and Megan Schlitter handing out blessing bags to people in need.

Group photo

Members Andrew Pingenot and Cooper McClintock feel the layout of the beehive.

Members from Benton Community, La Porte-Dysart, and Vinton-Shellsburg FFA Chapter get together for a picture at Hummel Livestock

By: Co-Reporter, Sophia Newton

The Vinton Shellsburg FFA chapter recently enjoyed an unforgettable experience at the 97th National FFA Convention, held from October 22nd to 26th in Indianapolis. With 19 enthusiastic members in attendance, they traveled with neighbors from La Porte-Dysart FFA Chapter, on a journey that included exciting tours and meaningful community service activities. Members kicked off their adventure at Hummels Livestock, where they learned about a variety of animals, including rheas, exotic cats, goats, and even a kangaroo.

The excitement continued at Hardy's Reindeer Ranch, where they had the unique opportunity to hand-feed and interact with reindeer, creating cherished memories. The following day, the group enjoyed a fun evening at Topgolf, where they bonded over dinner and friendly competition, strengthening their connections with one another. In addition to these educational tours, the chapter made a difference in the Indianapolis community by distributing blessing bags filled with food, hygiene items, and clothing from Izzie Birker's Living to Serve Plan. This service project showcased the chapter's commitment to giving back.

At Lucas Oil Stadium, members were inspired by keynote speakers who shared their personal journeys and insights into leadership and agriculture. They listened to retiring addresses from national officers, which emphasized the values of perseverance and service in the FFA community. The chapter was also honored for their 2-star National Chapter rating. The exposition hall buzzed as members explored booths, met new people, and attended engaging leadership workshops. They also watched national competitions, gaining valuable insights to improve their skills. Members also had the chance to explore the zoo, where they saw a variety of animals and learned about their care and conservation.

On their last night in Indianapolis, they visited a honey farm, where they discovered the fascinating world of bees and honey production. They even enjoyed a hands-on experience by packaging their own honey to take home.

A standout moment of the convention was the awarding of American Degrees, which two Vinton-Shellsburg members: Christopher Fleming and Carly Williams received. The American Degree is the highest honor an FFA member can achieve and highlights their dedication and hard work throughout their FFA careers. Overall, the Vinton Shellsburg FFA chapter had an amazing time at the national convention, filled with learning, community service, and unforgettable experiences.

Pictured in the Group Photo: Group Photo: Vinton-Shellsburg FFA Members: Braedon Hepker, Zane Helter, Levi Lutz, Austin Noe, Will McKenna, Cooper McClintock, Andrew Pingenot, Brody Waters, Sophia Newton, Megan Schlitter, Carlie Clark, Ciara Dods, Eleanor Moen, Bri Dulin, Carly Williams, Bridgette Castle, Izzie Birker, Kirsten Pettit, Alana Fleming, Raine Wheeler, Katelyn Fleming, and Christopher Fleming.