Tea Area FFA earns national recognition at convention

Tea Area FFA was among the South Dakota chapters recognized for its achievements at the 98th National FFA Convention and Expo, held Oct. 21-24 in Indianapolis, Ind.

More than 72,000 FFA members, advisors and guests from across the country attended the annual convention, where students participated in leadership workshops, competed in national events and celebrated achievements in agricultural education.

Tea Area FFA earned a two-star chapter designation, one of the national recognitions awarded to South Dakota chapters. The three-star distinction is the highest chapter rating.

The Tea Area chapter was recognized alongside Belle Fourche, Beresford, Bridgewater-Emery, Freeman, Garretson, Gregory County, Harrisburg, McCook Central and Parker as a two-star chapter.

South Dakota FFA members represented the state in a variety of national competitions and award programs. Several students and chapters earned top honors. 

Other South Dakota students earned recognition in the National FFA Agriscience Fair, Career and Leadership Development Events, proficiency awards and American Degree program.

The National FFA Convention brings together students from all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands to recognize accomplishments and develop leadership and career skills related to agriculture.

The South Dakota FFA Association includes 6,536 agricultural education students in 113 chapters statewide. FFA’s mission is to make a positive difference in students’ lives by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.