SPRINGFIELD — Members of the Rochelle FFA Chapter attended the 89th annual Illinois State FFA Convention on June 13-15 along with 3,500 other FFA members, advisors, and guests.

“Maximize” was the theme of the three-day event which recognizes annual successes of Illinois FFA members, elects the major state officer team, and celebrates agriculture. Students at the convention were greeted with activities including an exhibit hall featuring colleges and businesses, an evening dance and talent show, and an opportunity to engage in the history of Illinois’ capital city. The convention program featured keynote presentations by National FFA Central Region Vice President Valerie Earley, of Minn., and Hoan Do, a former contestant on “American Ninja Warrior,” student success coach, and motivational speaker.

During the convention, the following awards were presented to the Rochelle FFA chapter:

• National Chapter Award, Growing Leaders Section Winner: As part of the National Chapter Award program and the chapter’s program of activities, Growing Leaders is designed to encourage the chapter to develop individual and cooperative activities to enhance students’ life skills. 

• National Chapter Award, Building Communities Section Winner: As part of the National Chapter Award program and the chapter’s program of activities, Building Communities is designed to encourage the local development of FFA partnerships with alumni affiliates and other organizations while taking a leadership role in making the community a better place to live and work. 

• State Winner Food Science Career Development Event: The chapter was recognized for winning the state Food Science CDE, which requires team members to have an in-depth understanding of food product development and presentation and food safety issues. Participants use their sensory skills to solve problems and make sound decisions. 

• State Winner Food Science Career Development Event High Individual: Donnie Harmon was recognized for winning the state Food Science CDE, which requires team members to have an in-depth understanding of food product development and presentation and food safety issues. Participants use their sensory skills to solve problems and make sound decisions. 

• State Winner Horse (non-reasons) Career Development Event High Individual: Amanda Headon was recognized for winning the state Horse Evaluation CDE, which requires team members to evaluate and rank horses based on breed characteristics, conformation, and performance.

• Banker’s Plaque Award Section Winner: The Banker’s Plaque is given to the chapter in each section with the highest overall score on the National Chapter Award application. This award is sponsored by the Illinois Bankers Association. 

National Chapter Award, Strengthening Agriculture Section Winner: As part of the National Chapter Award program and the chapter’s program of activities, Strengthening Agriculture is designed to encourage opportunities and service for members, such as promoting increased member participation and financial responsibility, creating a positive image, and interacting with support groups and cooperatives through organized activities.