“Expanding Horizons” was the theme of the 97th annual Tennessee FFA State Convention. With attendance at more than 4,000 members, advisors and guests, it’s safe to say the blue corduroy jackets were in full force in Gatlinburg March 24-26, 2025.
This year’s convention included members fellowshipping with friends from other schools, competing in various contests and hearing inspirational messages from state officers and other leaders. Tennessee was also proud to host National FFA President Thaddeus Bergschneider who spent the convention entertaining students during pre-session and providing a keynote address.
“At the end of the day, what FFA does is turn shy freshman and sophomores into leaders who are running around this convention hall and shaping their communities, schools and this state,” said Bergschneider. “That’s what we do – we turn these members who walk into agricultural education classrooms into the next generation of leaders who are going to change the world.”
In addition to the fun and fellowship, award winners and more than 800 state degree recipients were recognized for their accomplishments. A highlight every year, the state star awards were given out. This year’s winners: Star Greenhand – Emma Grace Meadows, North Greene; Star in Agriscience – Alethea Dunn, Stewarts Creek; Star in Agricultural Placement – Wyatt Pearson, East Robertson; Star in Agribusiness – Hunter Sims, Scotts Hil; and Star Farmer – Eli Pelham, Woodbury.
There were 30 candidates who competed for the chance to be elected as one of eight on the new state officer team. The selection process was spread over two days, and during the seventh and final session of the convention, the new team was announced to lead the more than 33,000 Tennessee FFA members in the upcoming year.
“I am the first state president to come from West Greene,” said Weston Brown, Tennessee FFA President. “It is truly an honor to have the opportunity to serve these members, and I will constantly be devoted to making an impact in their lives and helping them throughout my year of service.”
