April 22, 2025
Rutherford County Schools
Students from Rutherford County Schools joined over 6,500 FFA members from across the state in Gatlinburg for the 2025 Tennessee State FFA Convention, held March 23-26. Delegations from Blackman, Eagleville, LaVergne, Oakland, Riverdale, Rockvale, Siegel, Smyrna, and Stewarts Creek high schools represented the district at this premier event.
The convention provided students with opportunities to compete in Career and Leadership Development Events, gain recognition for their Supervised Agricultural Experience programs and Agriscience Fair projects, participate in leadership workshops, and earn honors at the chapter level. State winners advance to national competition this October at the National FFA Convention, while state finalists earn prize money and award recognition for their exceptional efforts. In addition to celebrating achievements, students connected with peers from across Tennessee who share a passion for agricultural education and leadership.
Several Rutherford County FFA chapters were recognized for excellence in programming, literacy, and membership during the 2025 Tennessee State FFA Convention.
Oakland FFA earned the prestigious title of a National 3-Star Chapter, the highest honor awarded by the National FFA Organization for exceptional performance in the areas of Growing Leaders, Building Communities, and Strengthening Agriculture. In addition, Blackman, Eagleville, Oakland, Riverdale, Rockvale, Siegel, and Smyrna were all named Superior Chapters, signifying high-quality programs of activities and excellence in chapter operations at the state level. Smyrna FFA was honored with the 10% Membership Increase Award for successfully growing its chapter by at least 10 percent over the previous year—a testament to the chapter’s active recruitment and member engagement efforts. Chapters were also recognized for their dedication to literacy. Eagleville, Oakland, Riverdale, and Siegel achieved Platinum PLOW Chapter status for their outstanding implementation of the Passing Literacy OnWard program, demonstrating a strong commitment to promoting reading and literacy throughout the school and community.
RCS students achieved remarkable success, with Alethea Karlee Dunn from Stewarts Creek FFA being named the 2025 Tennessee Star in Agriscience, one of the convention’s most prestigious awards. Additionally, Ariana Mota from Stewarts Creek and Sarah Marshall from Eagleville were elected as Tennessee FFA State Officers for the 2024–2025 term. Several students earned state championship titles in the Agricultural Proficiency Awards, including Ariana Mota, Justin Dennis, Luke Carlton, and Christopher Gann. Oakland FFA excelled in the Tennessee FFA Agriscience Fair, securing state championships with participants Annabeth Cruz, Sarah Wheaton, Madison Rich, Emma Goff, Kennedy Lewis, Mary Redmon, and Lydia Moore. In the Career and Leadership Development Events, both Oakland FFA and Stewarts Creek FFA each won two state championships. The state-winning members from Oakland FFA included Annabelle Alexis, Kennedy Lewis, Sophie Markos, Sarah Bueche, and Sam Johnson and state-winning members from Stewarts Creek FFA were Hannah Barlow, Baylee Davis, Jaylyn Dearsman, Catherine Denton, Ariana Mota, and Tyler Sallee. Highlighted below are details of winning participants and notable finalists from various programs, showcasing the strength of our local FFA chapters.
FFA continues to make a positive difference in the lives of young people by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education. With more than a million members nationwide, FFA is the largest student-led organization in the country. To learn more about FFA and its impact, visit www.tnffa.org.
Tennessee State Star in Agriscience
Alethea Karlee Dunn, a member of the Stewarts Creek FFA Chapter, earned one of the convention’s highest honors as the 2025 Tennessee Star in Agriscience. The daughter of Carl and Kandee Dunn of Smyrna, Alethea was recognized for her extensive Supervised Agricultural Experience program, which includes six nationally ranked research projects in plant and social sciences. Her work spans innovative hydroponic and aquaponic systems, nutritional analysis of crops, and agricultural workplace accessibility. Alethea has earned multiple national titles, including National Champion and Runner-Up in various Plant Systems divisions, and was named the National Plant Science Research Proficiency Champion. She will now represent Tennessee at the national level. Alethea’s commitment to sustainable agriculture, leadership within her chapter and region, and passion for agricultural education continue as she pursues a degree in Plant and Soil Science and Secondary Education at Middle Tennessee State University.
Newly Elected Tennessee FFA Officers
Ariana Mota of the Stewarts Creek FFA Chapter and Sarah Marshall of the Eagleville FFA Chapter were elected to serve as 2024-2025 Tennessee FFA State Officers at the 96th Annual Tennessee FFA State Convention held in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Ariana was chosen as the State Reporter, while Sarah will serve as the State Sentinel. They were selected from a highly competitive pool of state officer candidates and will now embark on an exciting year of service, leadership, and advocacy alongside six other teammates from across Tennessee. The Tennessee FFA State Officer Team plays a vital role in leading the over 33,000 student members of the Tennessee FFA Association. Throughout their year of service, these officers travel across the state visiting FFA chapters, delivering leadership workshops, attending agricultural industry functions, and promoting the values of service, leadership, and career readiness. Their year is filled with inspiring students through conferences, camps, conventions, and contests, helping develop the next generation of agricultural leaders.
In addition, Emma Millican of the Oakland FFA Chapter was one of only six students statewide selected to serve on the Tennessee FFA Nominating Committee. This prestigious role is critical in interviewing, evaluating, and selecting the next state officer team.
Agricultural Proficiency Awards- Advancing to National FFA Convention
The Agricultural Proficiency Awards program recognizes outstanding FFA members who have developed specialized skills through their Supervised Agricultural Experiences (SAEs). These hands-on opportunities allow students to explore various career paths in agriculture, including production, agribusiness, communications, and environmental systems. Several students from RCS received accolades for their exceptional work in building a strong SAE program.
State Champions
- Agricultural Communications – Ariana Mota, Stewarts Creek
- Agricultural Mechanics Repair – Justin Dennis, Eagleville
- Diversified Agriculture – Luke Carlton, Oakland
- Sheep Production – Christopher Gann, Oakland
State Finalists
- Diversified Livestock – Baylee Davis, Stewarts Creek
- Small Animal Care – Annabelle Alexis, Oakland
Agriscience Fair Competition: The Tennessee FFA Agriscience Fair showcases the innovation and dedication of students in grades 7 to 12 who conduct research-based SAE’s. These projects originate from immersive SAEs that allow students to build on their agricultural knowledge through hands-on exploration of self-identified research questions. Projects can be experimental, analytical, or inventive, and State often involve collaboration with educators and industry experts. This experience deepens students' understanding and cultivates essential skills for future careers in agriculture and STEM fields. Additionally, it demonstrates how personal interests can lead to significant advancements in the community and enhance agricultural knowledge.
State Champions- Advancing to National FFA Convention
- Environmental Science Division V – Annabeth Cruz, Oakland
- Plant Science Division III – Sarah Wheaton, Oakland
- Plant Science Division V – Madison Rich, Oakland
- Social Systems Division III – Emma Goff, Oakland
- Social Systems Division IV – Kennedy Lewis & Mary Redmon, Oakland
- Food Science Division III – Lydia Moore, Oakland
State Finalists
- Social Science Division V – Runner-Up: Emma Millican, Oakland
- Plant Systems Division VI – 3rd Place: Amy Wade & Ava Stover, Riverdale
- Social Systems Division V – 3rd Place: Kasen Miller, Stewarts Creek
- Animal Systems Division VI – 3rd Place: Ty & Tristen Hall, Stewarts Creek
- Social Systems Division IV – 3rd Place: Avery Brush & Olivia Richardson, Riverdale
- Animal Systems Division III – 8th Place: John Blandford, Stewarts Creek
- Social Systems Division VI – 9th Place: Gavin Johnson & Triniti Shaffer, Riverdale
- Social Systems Division III – 11th Place: Bayleigh Dean, Riverdale
Career and Leadership Development Events
- Annabelle Alexis from Oakland FFA has been named the State Champion in the Prepared Public Speaking Leadership Development Event. She demonstrated outstanding skills in speech composition, research, and public presentation. Her impactful and informative speech on an agriculture-related topic impressed the judges with its clarity, creativity, and engaging delivery. Annabelle's victory not only brings prestige to her chapter but also allows her to represent Tennessee at the National FFA Convention this October. Her success highlights the strength of youth voices in agriculture and underscores the importance of communication in advocating for the industry.
- Stewarts Creek FFA has been crowned the State Champion in the Bull Pen Challenge, thanks to team members Hannah Barlow and Baylee Davis. Their dynamic presentation of a business idea stood out among the competitors, showcasing a strong entrepreneurial spirit and innovative approach that will positively impact Tennessee agriculture. This victory brings them statewide recognition, prize money, and an exciting opportunity to represent Tennessee. Oakland FFA also received well-deserved recognition as the State Runner-Up. Team members Keiston Stewart and Lexie Bozman delivered a strong presentation that placed them among the state’s top young agricultural entrepreneurs.
- Stewarts Creek FFA earned the State Champion title in Agricultural Communications, thanks to the creativity, teamwork, and communication skills of Jaylyn Dearsman, Catherine Denton, Ariana Mota, and Tyler Sallee. Their winning media plan and outstanding performances in both individual and team components showcased their strong understanding of advocacy and media strategies in agriculture. This victory secures them a spot at the National FFA Convention in October, placing them among Tennessee's most effective agricultural communicators. Their commitment to sharing the FFA story highlights the importance of collaboration and advocacy in the agricultural industry.
- Oakland FFA achieved top honors in the Food Science and Technology Career Development Event, with team members Kennedy Lewis, Sophie Markos, Sarah Bueche, and Sam Johnson earning the title of State Champion. Their expertise in product development, food safety, and technical problem-solving garnered them statewide recognition and the opportunity to represent Tennessee on the national stage. Additionally, Riverdale FFA secured an impressive 5th place finish, with Danna Porras Altamirano earning the title of 1st High Individual in the state. This remarkable achievement highlights her exceptional skills and preparation in this competitive event. Other members of the Riverdale FFA team include Emma Medina, Carlos Pena Ochoa, and Kaylee Carmouche.
- Oakland FFA’s Parliamentary Procedure team demonstrated exceptional leadership, debate, and organizational skills to earn the State Runner-Up title. Mackenzie Mccoy, Annabelle Alexis, Abby DeBerry, Kennedy Lewis, Julian Floyd, and Emma Goff impressed judges with their professionalism and command of parliamentary law, placing them among the top teams in Tennessee. Their success highlights their deep understanding of effective meeting procedures and critical thinking
- Oakland FFA's team of Abby DeBerry, Annabelle Alexis, Emma Millican, and Anna Grace Eschenfelder earned the distinction of State Runner-Up in the Agricultural Sales Career Development Event. Through expert product knowledge, teamwork, and strategic planning, they successfully demonstrated the essential skills needed for a career in agricultural sales. Their high placement reflects their commitment to excellence and a strong grasp of marketing and customer relations.
- Stewarts Creek FFA earned State Runner-Up honors in the Cooperative Development Challenge with team members Jaylyn Dearsman, Cy Hall, Brady Lee, and Cooper Lloyd. Their thoughtful approach to cooperative business principles and critical thinking set them apart as future leaders in agricultural business. Eagleville FFA also earned high marks with a 4th place state finish, with team members Addison Burns, Gracie Hancock, Addison Martin, and Leighton Wakefield, showcasing a strong understanding of teamwork and cooperative development.
- Emma Millican of Oakland FFA placed 3rd in the state in the Employment Skills Leadership Development Event, an impressive accomplishment in a highly competitive field. Her professionalism throughout the interview process, from crafting resumes to delivering strong interview responses, demonstrates real-world career readiness. Emma’s achievement reflects her dedication to developing the communication and decision-making skills necessary for success in any agricultural career
- Oakland FFA’s Conduct of Chapter Meetings team earned a 3rd place finish in the state with a strong display of parliamentary procedure, teamwork, and leadership. Comprised of Kennedy Fann, Kayden Gipson, Allie Daugherty, Brylee Rogers, Jasmine Fortner, Ash Quintero, and Natalie Gann, this team of Freshmen members demonstrated outstanding knowledge of FFA officer roles and effective meeting conduct—skills they will build upon as future FFA leaders.
- Sarah Hoenie of Rockvale FFA placed 3rd in the Agricultural Education Career Development Event, distinguishing herself among Tennessee’s aspiring ag educators. Her well-developed lesson plan and dynamic classroom presentation impressed judges and demonstrated her understanding of effective teaching practices. Her performance reflects a strong passion for agricultural education and the skills needed to one day lead her own classroom.
Beyond the state champions and finalists, many of our members proudly represented their chapters in a variety of Career and Leadership Development Events during the convention. These students demonstrated their knowledge, skills, and dedication through strong performances across multiple areas of agriculture listed below:
Environmental & Natural Resources
- Oakland (6th Place): Andrew Gill, Sarah Wheaton, Abby DeBerry, Keiston Stewart
- Siegel: Wesley Frantz, Jackson Campbell, Elliot Funderburk, Austin McCrary
- Riverdale: Destiny Wilkerson, Molly Davis, Chloe Rutterbush, Bayleigh Dean
- Stewarts Creek: Gage Bergstresser, Will Hasty, Jayden Pruett, Ashlee Zack
Milk Quality & Products
- Riverdale (10th Place): Aubree Spann, Molly Dodd, Lucas Gonzalez, Queeny Bustamante
- Stewarts Creek: Josie Blanks, Nora Ensley, London Parham, Olivia Westfall
- Eagleville: Jett Murphy, Alli Jackson, Leighton Wakefield, Sophie Lamb
Food Science
- Stewarts Creek: Jenna Knox, Anthony Maresca, Ally Miller, Mckenna Whitesman
- Eagleville: Caroline Leonard, Noah Marshall, Luke Cooper, Abbie Ricks
Agronomy
- Eagleville: Grant Cooper, Jett Murphy, Chevelle Cain, Lily Potts
- Riverdale: Louis Maldonado, Amos Wolff Jr., Amy Wade, Ava Stover
- Stewarts Creek: Francisco Espinoza, Cruz Jackson, Tanner Morris, Marvin Rucker
Farm & Agribusiness Management
- Stewarts Creek: William Dickson, Cammy Jackson, Riley Seiber, Madison Wade
- Riverdale: Kevin Orzoco, Ashlee Meadows, M’Kayla Johnson-Myatt, Ava Keith
Quiz Bowl
- Stewarts Creek: Catherine Denton, Alyssa Robbins, Tiffany Trader, Riley Van der Woude
- Siegel: Anna Walters, Rylee Spain, Shyla Schuster, Isaiah Scott-Tharpe
- Riverdale: Connor Copley, Gavin Johnson, Triniti Shaffer, Cordell Leonard
- Rockvale: Madison Phillips, Caleb Limpert, Laiela Glielmi, Abigail Sieber
Tennessee FFA Degree Recipients
The State FFA Degree is one of the highest honors a member can earn at the state level, symbolizing years of dedication and growth within FFA. Awarded by the Tennessee FFA Association, it recognizes members who have shown outstanding commitment to agricultural education and career readiness through their SAE programs. To qualify, students must have earned their Chapter FFA Degree, participated in FFA for at least two years, completed a minimum of two years of agricultural education, and managed an SAE. They must also demonstrate leadership, maintain a strong academic record, and contribute to their chapter’s Program of Activities. Receiving the State FFA Degree places members among the top achievers in the state and is a vital step toward the American FFA Degree.
- Blackman- Madison Butler, Jordan Hale, McKinly Thomas
- Eagleville- Jameson Spann, Lily Potts, Sarah Marshall, Bauer Burch, Cole Flowers, Skilar Burch, Layla Denton, Caroline Leonard, Abigail Rakes, Abbie Ricks, Rylee Warbritton, Lauren Wingler
- Oakland- Annabeth Cruz, Chris Gann, Luke Carlton, Anna Grace Eschenfelder, Julian Floyd, Lily Amstutz, David Amstutz, Annabelle Keating, Judah Mitchell, Madelyn Meadors
- Riverdale- Kaylee Carmouche, Sidney Stonebarger, Triniti Shaffer, Cordell Leonard, Maddie Simpson, M’Kayla Johnson-Myatt, Amy Wade, Destiny Wilkerson, Gavin Johnson
- Rockvale- Sarah Hoenie, Sydney Hendricks, Kacey Edwards, Caleb Limpert, Ava James Lagenour, Camden Friend, Elijah Rae, Gage Walls, Courtney Curran
- Siegel- Alex Weaver, Bailey Batzloff, Harley Peerson, Lyla Wiley, Avery Swayze, Madison Green
- Smyrna- Jacob Costa, Jared Costa, Malichai Davidson, Madison Dempsay, Caden Holman, Chyran Murphy, Emily Proctor, Kamryn Tollet
- Stewarts Creek- Josie Blanks, Jaylyn Dearsman, Alethea Karlee Dunn, Eli Dunn, Khmaila Inthirakod, Brady Lee, Ally Miller, Caitlyn Sams, Riley Van der Woude, Madison Wade, Ashlee Zack