The Tyler County FFA Chapter in West Virginia were one of 37 teams participating in the National FFA Milk Quality and Products Career Development Event (CDE). The event was held in conjunction with the 85th National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, Ind. The team, led by advisor Leon Ammons, was awarded a Gold emblem. Members also competed for individual awards with 143 other participants. Lauren Seckman received a Gold emblem, Samantha Collins received a Gold emblem, Joe Henthorn received a Gold emblem, and Laura Jochum received a Gold emblem.

The top ten individuals and the national winning team members received cash awards to recognize their success in the event. The milk and cheese products used for the event were provided by Fair Oaks Farms of Fair Oaks, Ind.

The National Milk Quality and Products CDE is a competitive event that allows students to prove their knowledge about the recognition, selection and management necessary for quality milk and dairy products. Participants must complete a written exam on milk production and marketing, evaluate milk samples for flavor and quality, identify cheeses and characteristics and complete milk acceptability tests in the team activity. Each team competed at local and state levels to earn the privilege to represent their state at the National FFA Convention & Expo.

This event, held at the Indiana State Fairgrounds in Indianapolis, Ind., is one of many educational activities at the national convention in which FFA members apply classroom knowledge to real-life situations.

About National FFA Organization

The National FFA Organization is a national youth organization of 557,318 student members as part of 7,498 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. The FFA mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. The National FFA Organization operates under a federal charter granted by the 81st United States Congress and it is an integral part of public instruction in agriculture. The U.S. Department of Education provides leadership and helps set direction for FFA as a service to state and local agricultural education programs. For more, visit the National FFA Organization online at www.ffa.org, on Facebook, Twitter and the official National FFA Organization blog.