Ready to make a difference

JVS FFA students attend Leadership Conference in Washington, D.C.

Thousands of National FFA members from throughout the country came together in Washington, D.C., to evaluate their skills and interests, develop leadership talent and create service plans that will make a difference in their local communities.

Four Lorain County JVS FFA Chapter members, and students from the Landscape and Greenhouse Management program, spent nearly one week at the conference.

These students are Kevin Daviduk from Amherst; Haylei Ready from Elyria; Xander Blaylock from Midview; and Kaylie Blank from North Ridgeville.

The capstone of the event is a civic engagement activity where students apply what they have learned in a hands-on activity. Lorain County JVS students gave back at the Meals of Hope organization where they had the opportunity to pack food for people in need.

The students also experienced the history of the nation’s capital and toured landmarks including Arlington National Cemetery, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Lincoln Memorial, Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, Ford’s Theater, the National Mall, and the U.S. Capitol, among others.

“I learned so much about the history of my country,” said Daviduk. “I also learned what it takes to be to become a great leader, and the steps to get there.”

Landscape and Greenhouse Management Instructor and FFA Advisor, Beth Berthold shared what a great trip this is for her students. “This conference allows our students to meet other students from around the country and network and learn from them. Students work on communication, leadership, and teamwork skills,” Berthold said.

SUBMITTED Kevin Daviduk (Amherst), left, Xander Blaylock (Midview), Kaylie Blank (North Ridgeville), and Haylei Ready (Elyria) pose on the National FFA Washington, D.C., trip with the U.S. Capitol in the background.

SUBMITTED Kaylie Blank (North Ridgeville), left, Kevin Daviduk (Amherst), and Haylei Ready (Elyria) show their Ohio pride at the Washington Monument.