FFA members earn Keystone Degrees

Members of the MAHS FFA Chapter received their Keystone Degrees during the 95th Annual FFA Mid-Winter Convention. The convention was held in conjunction with the 108th annual Pennsylvania Farm Show January 6-13.

The Meyersdale FFA Chapter is pleased to announce three members were recently awarded Keystone Degrees. Bailey Knotts, Jimmy Kretchman and Bridgette Beal received their Keystone degrees at the Pennsylvania FFA Mid-Winter Convention, held in conjunction with the 108th annual Pennsylvania Farm Show, held January 6-13.

Earning a Keystone Degree is an arduous task, requiring years of careful planning and participation. The state FFA degree, called the Keystone in Pennsylvania, is the highest degree that can be bestowed on an FFA member at the state level. Recipients of the Keystone Degree are considered to be the top members of the Pennsylvania FFA Association, and are chosen through extensive records of supervised agricultural experiences submitted by the applicant. Applicants must also meet a number of other requirements, including academic record. Applications are reviewed by a local committee before being sent for final verification by a state committee.

Attaining this goal requires up to four years of effort, through leadership development, SAE involvement, and participation in FFA activities both in school and in the community. These outstanding Red Raiders now join the elite ranks of just 4% of Pennsylvania FFA members to qualify for this honor. More than 500 students were recognized with this honor during the PA Farm Show.

“This is such an important achievement for our members and demonstrates their dedication to the program and their respective projects,” explained Doreen Jamison, MAHS FFA Advisor.

Bailey Knotts serves as Vice-President of the MAHS FFA Chapter. James Kretchman is the chapter’s Treasurer and Bridgette Beal is the Reporter.

Congratulations to each of these special students for their outstanding efforts!