Bonduel High School graduate Reba McClone narrowly missed becoming a national FFA officer at the organization’s convention in Louisville, Kentucky, earlier this month.
McClone, a 2012 BHS graduate who attends the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a double major in life science and dairy science communications, was among 21 finalists for six national positions.
“I was blessed to sit around the best candidates during the process,” McClone said. “It was an honor representing the state of Wisconsin.”
Each state FFA is allowed to nominate one national officer candidate. McClone, who is the 2013-14 state FFA reporter, was selected for the honor this summer.
Each year, six students are elected by convention delegates to represent FFA as national officers. Delegates elect a president, secretary and vice presidents representing the central, southern, eastern and western regions of the country.
To be elected, candidates must have their American FFA Degree and be at least one year out of high school, among other requirements.
Candidates go through a rigorous process that includes interviews, speeches, written tests and essays, and demonstrating competencies in several areas.
Prior to holding the state office, McClone was active within the Bonduel FFA. She served two years as chapter president and completed supervised agricultural experience projects related to equine, beef, ag sales and veterinary sciences before graduating. She also advanced to state competition in several public speaking contests areas.
She said the national convention was a whirlwind experience.
“I had an amazing time in Louisville. Between interviews, I got to experience Louisville,” McClone said. “For the most part, they kept us busy.”
Although not being selected as a national officer, McClone said she will continue to follow the organization’s mission of helping others.
“Sometimes you have to ask what can I do to help,” she said. “You can continue to serve even without a title.”
McClone said helping others could include volunteering at homeless shelters, making stops at schools or simply holding the door open for someone in the community.
McClone said she made valuable connections at the conference that will help her once she completes her studies at Madison. She wants to become an agriculture-based writer.
“I am very excited to be back in school studying,” McClone said.
The National FFA Organization encourages agricultural education and leadership. It has 610,240 student members and 7,665 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, according to the organization’s website.
Categories
