Members earn top honors, national recognition, and unforgettable experiences

By Analisa Jorgensen 

Guest Contributor 

ATASCADERO — The annual National FFA Convention took place in Indianapolis, Indiana, from Oct. 23 to 26. This year, nine students from the Atascadero FFA chapter had the honor of attending, with five of these students competing for national titles. Competing at the National FFA Convention is a prestigious achievement; to qualify, an individual or team must place first in the state for their respective competition, earning the chance to represent California on the national stage.

Mikayla Spiller, the 2024 California State Champion Creed Speaker and a sophomore at Atascadero High School, achieved remarkable recognition in Indiana. She was awarded the title of Gold Finalist, placing her among the top eight creed speakers in the nation. This impressive accomplishment reflects Spiller’s hard work and dedication, and she has made both her Atascadero FFA chapter and the California FFA organization incredibly proud. Atascadero FFA congratulates Spiller on her success and eagerly anticipates all that she will accomplish in her FFA journey.

The Atascadero Livestock Judging Team, consisting of Lacy Conlan, Jaycee Salas, Elizabeth Wagster, and Kensington Witt, represented California as the state champion. The team achieved great success at the national level, placing seventh in the nation. As a Gold Emblem team, they excelled in various divisions, including third place in Swine, fourth place in Sheep and Goat, and fifth place in Reasons. Individually, team members were recognized for their outstanding achievements: Conlan, a senior; Salas, a junior; and Witt, a 2024 graduate, earned Gold Emblem distinctions, while Wagster achieved Silver Emblem status. These accomplishments reflect the team’s dedication and expertise in livestock evaluation. 

In addition to the competing students, four other Atascadero FFA members — Cherish Cathey, Gabby Ferrie, Alli Pulse, and Jesse Smith — also attended the convention. During their time in Indiana, these students joined their fellow Atascadero FFA members in attending sessions led by the National FFA Officer Team, meeting FFA members from across the country, and exploring the expo hall, where colleges, agricultural companies, and other industry organizations provided information about career paths and opportunities.

While at the convention, students also took time to experience the local attractions, including the Indianapolis Zoo, the Indianapolis Scare Park, and a live performance by country artist Megan Moroney. They also took a trip south to Louisville, Kentucky, where they visited the Louisville Slugger Factory, and took a tour of Churchill Downs. This opportunity allowed the students to bond, gain new experiences, and celebrate their achievements.

Atascadero FFA’s attendance at the national convention was a great display of our chapter’s hard work and dedication for the FFA organization. Each of these students represented their school, chapter, and California FFA with pride, and their achievements highlight the strength and potential of the next generation in agriculture. Atascadero FFA is thrilled to celebrate these students’ successes and looks forward to seeing them continue to grow and make an impact at the state and national levels.

Analisa Jorgensen, Atascadero FFA reporter and a senior at Atascadero High School, is a guest contributor for Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press as part of our commitment to supporting local school districts and promoting local journalism.

Feature Image: The Atascadero FFA Livestock Judging Team, (from left) Elizabeth Wagster, Lacy Conlan, Jaycee Salas, and Kensington Witt, represented California as state champion and played seventh at the FFA National Convention in Indianapolis. Photo provided by Atascadero FFA