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FFA names 2017 American Stars

Four students were recognized for their unmatched accomplishments in their supervised agricultural experience programs.

An FFA student from Minnesota was awarded the American Star Farmer.

Joseph Arnold grows corn, soybeans, navy beans, kidney beans, and sugar beets on his diversified crop farm.

He tells Brownfield the award validates the long hours that he has put in. His advice for younger FFA members is to do something similar.

“Before you start it, make sure this is going to be a passion of yours because it takes a lot of time and effort and consumes everything you do,” he says.

Audio: Joseph Arnold, American Star Farmer

Kellie Einck from Iowa was named the American Star in Ag Placement.

She says she started in a local car garage as a general mechanic and service technician, then attended diesel tech school, and got a job in mechanical engineering at John Deere.

“It takes a lot of hard work and perseverance to get to where you want to be in life, but it’s definitely worth it in the end,” he says.

Audio: Kellie Einck, Star in Ag Placement

 

Chrysta Beck of the Pettisville FFA Chapter in Ohio received the Star in Agriscience for her research into the production factors that impact the health of commercial broilers.

She says it’s gratifying to know that her research and hard work has paid off. She encourages FFA members to dive into research.

“Don’t be afraid to look into things that seem a little strange and don’t be afraid to ask questions about your research,” she says.

Audio: Chrysta Beck, Star in Agriscience 

Austin Nordyke of Hugoton FFA Chapter in Kansas is the American Star in Agribusiness.

He has grown his lawn care business from 15 to 65 lawns since he started it in 2012. He says he has learned so many life lessons over the past five years.

“Everything from time management, to good accounting practices, to working on my equipment, and being able to maintain it,” he says.

Audio: Austin Nordyke, Star in Agribusiness 

Sixteen American Star Award finalists are nominated by judges who then interview the finalists during the national convention. The four winners receive $4,000 and the finalists receive $2,000.