State FFA Convention: Wyoming FFA elects new state officers for leadership
Cheyenne – The Wyoming FFA State Convention took place in Cheyenne April 6-9. Members and guests from across the state participated in general sessions, competitive events, educational tours, leadership workshops, visits with colleges and more. This year’s event was a success, with great numbers in attendance. In conclusion, nine youth leaders were selected by a nominating committee to serve the Wyoming FFA Association.
The newly elected officer team is President Sarah Turner of the Cheyenne High Plains FFA, Vice President Bree Coxbill of the Southeast FFA, Second Vice President Haylie Turley of the Cheyenne Frontier FFA, Third Vice President Miranda Dickinson of the Casper FFA, Secretary Tanner Rogers of the Snowy Range FFA, Treasurer Kaya Pehringer of the Buffalo FFA, Reporter Calista Duggar of the Torrington/Lingle FFA, Sentinel Conor Christensen of the Shoshoni FFA and Parliamentarian Rebecca Schilt of the Cheyenne High Plains FFA.
Convention and travels
for new officers
“It went really well, and our numbers held solid from our last normal convention,” shares State Advisor Stacy Broda. “There was good representation from around the state, with 57 FFA chapters in attendance and students from seventh through 12th grade. We’re proud of our students and members participating in FFA who continue to better themselves with presented opportunities.”
This year, 23 applications were submitted in March from across the state for a state officer role. Throughout the convention, interviews took place with hopeful candidates, and final decisions were made on the last day by the nominating committee.
Over the next year, officers will first partake in an orientation and then will help organize and host events, conduct leadership workshops and serve as ambassadors for Wyoming FFA and the agriculture industry. Other responsibilities include promoting agricultural literacy and providing opportunities for personal growth for FFA members.
Officers will travel many miles around the state advocating for agriculture and sharing their passion for the organization. They will conduct regional visits and attend FFA camps, the Wyoming State Fair and the National State FFA Convention.
“The state is fortunate to have strong agriculture educational programs and FFA chapters,” says Broda.
Giving back to
Wyoming agriculture
Incoming State FFA President Sarah Turner shares she is excited to give back to an organization which has given her so much.
“I was inspired to run for state office because of the members,” she says. “I really became someone in this organization, and I think it has the power to do this for everyone.”
She credits her FFA Advisors Mr. Cress and Mr. Berry, who have served relentlessly during her FFA career, and she wants nothing more than to give back to the association which has shaped her and given her purpose, she notes.
“I’m looking forward to traveling and meeting new members,” she adds. “Some of our best members are the ones who can’t always attend FFA camps or conferences, so I’m excited to meet new members and watch them grow and make Wyoming FFA even better.”
FFA Vice President Bree Coxbill mentions she is also excited to serve in a state officer role.
“When I was in sixth grade, my cousin Austin Vieshelmeyer was elected as Colorado’s State FFA Treasurer. It was through him I discovered my own passion for FFA,” she says. “Over the years it has developed into a passion fueled by servant leadership and inspiration from the members making this organization what it is.”
“To be surrounded by a team of passionate, humble leaders motivates me and makes me excited for the Wyoming FFA Association,” Coxbill adds. “I’m looking forward to the year of growth ahead filled with meeting members, advisors and others making this organization extraordinary.”
Brittany Gunn is the editor for the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.
