By Julie Tomascik
Editor
Discussing agricultural issues and solutions earned four high school students recognition from Texas Farm Bureau (TFB) through the inaugural Speak Out For Agriculture (SOFA) Challenge.
“High school students are able to grow and build on basic discussion and critical thinking skills through the SOFA Challenge,” Whit Weems, TFB director of Organization Division, said. “The event fosters an environment for understanding important issues facing farmers and ranchers and how the students can work toward change in membership organizations and in agriculture.”
As the winner, Laura James of Flatonia earned a $2,500 scholarship, jacket and banner.
Tristyn Reed of Pearland was named runner up and received a $1,500 scholarship, jacket and banner.
Two finalists—Kaylee Eaton of Troy and Kennedy Hobbs of Thorndale—were each awarded $750 scholarships and jackets.
The top 16 contestants received a $125 gift card. They are:
Clancey Bagby
Savannah Bearden
Riley Beaver
Kaylee Eaton
Olivia Fine
Emily Glaze
Hallie Hackett
Treylyn Hancock
Kennedy Hobbs
Laura James
Hadlee Ladewig
John McCullough
Jacie Pennington
Charlee Proctor
Tristyn Reed
Rhea White
The event was open to high school students who are active in Texas 4-H and Texas FFA with an interested in agriculture, membership organization involvement or public policy.
Nearly 30 students participated in the contest, which began with a speech in the preliminary round. Additional contest rounds featured discussions on the impact of local food movements and how farmers can influence a predominantly urban Congress.
The contestants were responsible for the exchange of ideas and information to solve the problem addressed in the topic and to develop action plans for a solution.
“This was a new Farm Bureau contest to foster more engagement with young students who will be the future leaders of Texas and agriculture,” Weems said. “They were able to talk through possible solutions or develop goals for improvement. Their ideas and thoughts are important as agriculture continues to change and adapt.”
The contest was sponsored by TFB and hosted by the Heart O’ Texas Fair & Rodeo in Waco Oct. 2-3.
For more information on youth opportunities and scholarships, visit texasfarmbureau.org/youth/youth-opportunities.