Largest FFA Contest to Date Brings Together 58 Schools from Five States at OPSU Interscholastics

OPSU held its largest Interscholastics contest to date, an impressive event that saw participation from 58 schools across five states. This year's contest, spread over two days, featured 34 FFA contests with more than 1,400 entries, marking a milestone in OPSU's commitment to agricultural education and outreach. Supported by over 90 volunteers, including 70 dedicated OPSU students, the event successfully highlighted the hard work and dedication of the university's College of Agriculture, Science, and Nursing.

A collaborative highlight of this year's contest was the involvement of the Lamar Community College Livestock Judging Team, led by the head of the Lamar Animal Science Department, Dr. Brian Gauck. Together, they played a significant role in organizing and overseeing the livestock judging contest, one of the event's marquee competitions.

Tracy Kincannon, Dean of the College of Agriculture, Science, and Nursing, praised the event's participants and leaders, saying, "I'm very proud of everyone's hard work. The growth of our contest is a testament to all the great leadership within the College of Agriculture Science and Nursing. From first-semester freshmen to 25-year professors, everyone approaches this monumental endeavor with excitement and enthusiasm, and it shows in the connections they're making each year."

OPSU President Dr. Julie Dinger echoed the excitement, emphasizing the event's impact on agricultural education in the region. "At OPSU, we're committed to providing opportunities to advance agricultural education and create lasting connections with our local FFA chapters," she said. "This event embodies our mission of 'one university, one mission,' bringing together students, faculty, and future leaders in agriculture. We're honored to serve as our region's cornerstone for agricultural education."

The 2024 Interscholastics contest not only showcased the growth of the FFA program but also reinforced OPSU's dedication to nurturing the next generation of agricultural professionals. The success of this event reflects the university's ongoing commitment to fostering relationships that benefit students, communities, and the agricultural industry alike.

Photos from the events can be found online!