Working with sheep led Hill to American FFA Degree
Staff writer
When Cassidy Hill began working at Stardust Sheep Farm of Lincolnville, she already was showing sheep in 4-H, so it was a natural fit.
That job turned into an FFA supervised agricultural experience as an employee in sheep production. Her dedication to her work and her FFA chapter culminated in receiving the American FFA Degree, highest degree available to FFA members.
The 2015 graduate of Centre High School received the award Oct. 22 during the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis.
Hill was president of her FFA chapter as a senior and earned her state degree that year for her work at the sheep farm and the many volunteer hours spent in FFA activities.
“My favorite career development events were livestock evaluation, prepared public speaking, and agriculture sales,” she said. “I also helped with a lot of community service and always attended the meetings and any events the chapter put together.”
After graduation, she continued to work at the sheep farm. She put the money she earned into a savings account for college tuition.
Hill said her older sister, Nellie, was an inspiration to her as she observed Nellie compete and succeed in FFA. She said her parents, Kevin and Teresa Hill, and adviser Laura Klenda also get credit for her success.
“We spent many long nights and early mornings together working on record books,” she said of Klenda. “I am very fortunate to have these people in my life continuously pushing me to reach my highest potential.
“FFA has helped me in every aspect of my life. I have gained confidence, leadership, and long lasting friendships. I’ve learned time management, organization, and hard work. I’ve gained people skills and have built a network of people to help me grow.”
A sophomore at Kansas State University, she is majoring in agriculture business with a minor in animal science and industry. Her goal is to become an animal nutritionist.