December 16, 2014
Student from La Roche College Receives Prestigious American FFA Degree
PITTSBURGH, Dec. 16, 2014
–
The National Future Farmers of America (FFA) Organization recently awarded Kelly
Slates, a junior at La Roche University, the American FFA Degree at the 2014
National FFA Convention and Expo in Louisville, Ky.
The National FFA awards
the degree to a select group of students who have demonstrated academic and
professional excellence. The degree is one of the organization’s highest
honors, with less than one percent of students enrolled in FFA nation-wide
receiving the award each year.
Ms. Slates has been a
member of the H.G. Parkinson FFA Chapter at Fort Cherry High School for seven
years and served as a reporter, vice president and president of the chapter.
She has raised lambs, hogs, goats and a steer, all of which appeared at the
Washington County Fair. Previously Ms. Slates was a state qualifier in a public
speaking contest and a winner in the western region of a record keeping contest.
“My FFA experience has
helped me to grow as an individual and be the person I am today. Being a member
is important to me because learning about the agriculture industry and seeing
everyone involved in the organization is amazing,” Ms. Slates said. “My older
sister inspired me by her success and leadership in the FFA. Overall it has
been a very positive experience that has provided me with inspiration and
motivation.”
To qualify for the
degree, students must have earned at least $10,000 and productively invested
$7,500 through a supervised agricultural experience program in which they
start, own or hold a professional position in an existing agricultural
enterprise. Other eligibility requirements include: at least three years of high
school agriculture classes, a record of outstanding leadership skills and at
least 50 hours of community service.
Ms. Slates, of McDonald,
Pa., is majoring in communications, media and technology, minoring in visual
communication and is a member of the La Roche University women’s volleyball team.
The National FFA
Organization is a research and support organization that helps students to
develop their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career
success through agricultural education.
About La Roche University: A private liberal arts college in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, La
Roche College offers more than 50 undergraduate and five graduate degree
programs, with particular strengths in education, business, criminal justice,
psychology, and health and medical sciences as well as interior design and
graphic design. This residential college provides a vibrant campus community
for more than 1,400 men and women enjoying 30-plus student organizations and an
exciting NCAA Div. III athletics program. Founded by the Sisters of Divine
Providence in 1963, La Roche University embraces its Catholic heritage while
welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds. With a legacy of social justice
and a commitment to international exchange, La Roche University educates students
to be lifelong learners and achievers in an increasingly diverse and global
society.
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