Penn Yan Academy’s FFA Chapter was awarded the title of the 2023 N.Y. State FFA Chapter of the Year at the 191st Annual Meeting & Forum of the N.Y. State Agricultural Society Jan. 12 at the Syracuse OnCenter. The FFA Chapter of Year Award was one of seven honors presented at the Forum attended by 400 industry stakeholders and Governor Kathy Hochul. The Chapter award recognizes FFA’s successful track record for developing talent for the agricultural industry and contributing time and treasure to local communities. In presenting this annual award, it is the mission of the NYS Agricultural Society to identify and promote chapters of all shapes and sizes as they pursue these ideals. Established in 1931, membership of the Penn Yan Chapter has nearly tripled within the past five years, and their vision is to add a Jr. FFA Chapter in the near future. Students are exposed to a variety of courses and activities throughout the year, including Introduction to Agriculture, Ag Mechanics, Horticulture/Food Science, Small Animal Science, Large Animal Science and Environmental Science. Over the past decade, the school’s ag education program has expanded with the purchase of new equipment including a CNC plasma cutter, Shop Bot router and laser engraver to be used for wood and metal projects. The greenhouse has been outfitted with new hydroponic systems and a floral cooler. In the spring of 2021, three beehives were installed on the school roof enabling the first honey crop to be harvested in the fall of 2022. Trout are being raised from eggs to fingerlings in the classroom to be released into the Keuka Lake Outlet. Plans are underway to plant grape vines to support the region’s growing viticulture industry. Penn Yan FFA members are encouraged to participate in Career Development Events (CDEs) to test their knowledge and skills gained in the classroom. CDEs require individual knowledge, and the cooperation and commitment of all team members to succeed. Over 30 individuals competed in CDEs and LDEs throughout 2022. Penn Yan had several high placing teams and individuals in state competition. Supervised Agricultural Experiences (SDEs) are part of the 3-circle model of Agriculture Education. The number of Penn Yan FFA members participating continues to grow. Two students competed with distinction at the 95th National FFA Convention and Expo in October 2022. Clark Simmons was the first National Proficiency Winner from NY (Fruit Production) in over a decade. Penn Yan also produced the winning video in the first annual #SpeakAG State Showcase contest at the national event. For their high level of participation and activities, Penn Yan FFA has been recognized as a gold ranked National Chapter Award winner at the State Level, and a 3-star National Chapter Award winner at the National Level. Chapter advisors Carlie Bossard and Scott Chappell help students plan activities throughout the year. Heavy emphasis is placed on community service. In 2022, Penn Yan FFA collected and donated over 2,500 items to the local food pantry, participated in community/ highway clean-ups, and wrote holiday cards to over 200 residents of three Penn Yan nursing homes. The Chapter also participates in agricultural literacy and advocacy activities hosted in the school district and community.
