FFA students bring home state convention honors
Red Bay and Phil Campbell FFA students, along with a Hackleburg member of the Franklin County Junior Cattlemen, earned state-level honors at Alabama’s 2025 FFA Convention.
Red Bay High School sent 21 students to the state convention in Auburn. The school’s Conduct of Chapter Meetings team placed third in the state, while the String Band earned a second place award. Kayson Johnston placed second in the Beef Production – Entrepreneurship category.
Five Red Bay students achieved the State FFA Degree, one of the highest honors in Alabama FFA – Reagan Gordon, Anna Richardson, Melee Weaver, Khloe James and Jackson Miller. Ella Nunley and Caden Palmer also performed at State Talent, showcasing their skills on stage. Their performances make them eligible to apply for national recognition.
Red Bay FFA advisor Jarod Massey praised the chapter’s effort and preparation.
“They put a lot of work into what they do,” he said. “To get a banner at state is a big accomplishment. I’m proud to teach them and see them succeed.”
For students, the experience went beyond competition.
Khloe James, now chapter president, called it “the best experience.” S “We worked extremely hard to earn our spot on that stage,” she said. “Earning my state degree is something I’ve wanted since eighth grade. FFA isn’t just cows, farming and plants, it’s so much more. This club is like a family. I truly wish everyone would just try it and get involved. It is so rewarding.”
“All the hard work, long hours and dedication over the years have truly paid off,” said Reagan Gordon. “It was emotional and meaningful, cheering on my chapter and realizing how much FFA has shaped me.”
Phil Campbell High School sent 17 students to compete in events, including horse judging, agricultural construction and safe tractor driving. Jackson Posey brought home first place in safe tractor driving, which required competitors to complete a written test, parts identification and an obstacle course.
Phil Campbell FFA advisor Caleb Beason praised his Posey’s dedication.
Red Bay FFA degree recipients with advisor Jarod Massey, third from left, are Raegan Gordon, Khloe James, Jarod Massey, Jackson Miller, Anna Richardson and Melee Weaver.
CONTRIBUTED/JAROD MASSEY
“Jackson’s a hardworking young man, very determined and motivated,” he said. “He’s the first student I’ve ever had win first place in the state. It’s extremely gratifying to see his preparation and skill pay off.”
Beason also highlighted Derek Mays, who received the State FFA Degree for his wildlife production SAE (Supervised Agricultural Experience), raising and selling deer with his family.
“Achieving the State Degree shows a student’s willingness to spend time on their SAE and document it carefully,” Beason said. “It proves their commitment and dedication.”
In addition to the high school competitors, Hackleburg student and Franklin County Junior Cattlemen member Blaine McDuffa earned first in the state in Beef Production – Entrepreneurship. Although he attends Hackleburg High, his work with the Franklin County Junior Cattlemen represents the broader agricultural community in the county.
