Special Report

Ohio FFA Chapter brings home hardware, inspiration

Hannah Crossen’s students were barely out of their seats following a general session of the 86th National FFA Convention when they began asking her what new projects they could take on or how they might improve their chapter banquet. That, Crossen told Brownfield Ag News, is what is important about having students at the National FFA Convention.

“So while they might see that on social media, when they actually get to see it awarded on stage and get to see those students in person, it definitely leaves an impression on them,” said Crossen, of the North Union FFA Chapter, Richwood, Ohio.

“We’ve been able to hear many inspiring things from the national FFA officers,” said Crossen’s student, Mike Plotner.

The North Union Chapter left the convention with more than inspiration. After making the top five in eight of the last 11 years, the chapter’s agronomy team took home the top prize for the first time this year.

“We’ve always been the bridesmaid,” said Jared Evans, the agronomy team coach at North Union. “It takes a little luck, but it takes a heck of a lot of hard work,” said Evans, about the win.

Evans coached agronomy team members Molly Bayer, Jordyn Rhodeback, Kolton Ingles and Austin Davis.

AUDIO: Hannah Crossen (1 min. MP3)

AUDIO: Mike Plotner (1 min. MP3)

AUDIO: North Union Agronomy Team (3 min. MP3)

Top photo: Mike Plotner (left) and advisor Hannah Crossen of the North Union, Ohio, FFA Chapter at the 86th National FFA Convention, Louisville, Ky.

Bottom photo: North Union FFA Chapter, Ohio, winning agronomy team (from left) Molly Bayer, Jordyn Rhodeback, Kolton Ingles, Austin Davis and Coach Jared Evans, National FFA Convention, Louisville, Ky.