The Capitol FFA Chapter from Carson High School competed at the 97th Annual Nevada FFA State Convention in Reno, with 18 students participating in nine industry-focused contests, earning multiple awards and State honors, including a prestigious national advancement.
Capitol FFA’s achievements include:
- Gloria Dooley earned the 1st National Chapter Award, advancing the chapter to the national competition level
- Kathleen Brendel received the 1st High Treasurers Book Award for outstanding financial leadership
- Alex Parker earned the Nevada FFA State Degree, recognizing exceptional dedication and achievement
- Tanner McCune placed 2nd High Individual in Homesite and earned 3rd High Individual in Extemporaneous Speaking
- Dayra Martinez, Alexis La Fountain Olney, Tanner McCune and Gracie Shane earned 2nd High Team in the Homesite Contest
- Gloria Dooley achieved Gold Proficiency in Beef Production and placed 2nd High Individual in Employment Skills
- Kathleen Brendel placed 3rd High Individual in Horse Evaluation
- Josh Billings received the Star Administrator Award with Silver Ranking
“Mr. Lander Smith and I are incredibly proud of our students,” said Ms. Lauren Gates, Capitol FFA advisor. “It’s not about winning, it’s about the people you connect with, the growth you have as a person and how much you learn through the contests. As long as the students do their best, we’re proud.”
Students competed in Employment Skills, Veterinary Science, Best Informed Greenhand, Horse Evaluation, Soils and Homesite, Extemporaneous Speaking, Creed Speaking, Floriculture and Agricultural Mechanics.
FFA contests are designed to mirror real-world agricultural industries, testing students on a comprehensive range of skills and knowledge. For example, the Floriculture contest requires students to identify equipment and plants, diagnose plant disorders, conduct one-on-one sales, pot young plants, participate in team activities, complete knowledge tests and create individual arrangements. This rigorous approach ensures students are prepared for careers in agriculture and related fields.
