Independence FFA Members Selected to Compete Nationally

The Independence FFA Chapter earned the right to compete for national recognition in the Veterinary Science CDE event at the 91st National FFA Convention & Expo in Indianapolis, Oct. 24-27. The team placed 2nd in the state competition in May, and the 1st place team was unable to field a team containing enough of their original team members. The vet science team worked with Dr. Peterschmidt at the Pipestone Vet Clinic in the spring to complete their video practicum portion of the competition. This is the first time the Independence FFA Chapter will represent the state in a Career Development Event at the National level since the agricultural education program restarted in 2013.

The Independence FFA Chapter from will send members to Indianapolis as they compete for national honors in the area of veterinary science. Zoetis sponsors the event. FFA members who will represent the chapter include Megan Corkery, Jaimee Rowland, Keegan Zimmerly, Avery Hanaway. Mr. Haden  is the chapter advisor.

Veterinary science is one of 25 career/leadership development event areas, covering jobs skills in everything from communications to mechanics. This event will have participants’ veterinary science knowledge tested in the written exam as well as in the breed, equipment and parasite identification. Members also demonstrate hands-on skills in the clinical and handling/restraining practicums. This event allows participants to utilize high-level knowledge in math and science. CDEs and LDEs help students develop the abilities to think critically, communicate clearly and perform effectively in a competitive job market.

The National FFA Organization provides leadership, personal growth and career success training through agricultural education to 653,359 student members who belong to one of 8,568 local FFA chapters throughout the U.S., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The organization is also supported by 344,239 alumni members in 2,051 alumni chapters throughout the U.S.

Photo Caption: (Left to Right)Team Members Avery Hanaway, Megan Corkery, Keegan Zimmerly, and Jaimee Rowland