|
Local Pride on the National Stage: Glencoe-Silver Lake FFA Chapter Brings Home Top Honors
Friends and neighbors,
I am incredibly proud to share some wonderful news from right here in District 17A. Our Glencoe-Silver Lake FFA Chapter has been awarded the National FFA Chapter Title—one of the most prestigious honors awarded in agricultural education. This is more than an award; it’s a testament to the dedication, heart, and character of these young people and the supportive community around them.
On Tuesday, November 25, Glencoe-Silver Lake Schools will host a celebration to honor this incredible accomplishment. The event will take place in the Purple Gym, and guests may enter through Door #1 (Commons). Please plan to arrive by 9:45 AM, as the celebration begins at 9:50 AM. The program will last about an hour, with refreshments and time to visit with the FFA members afterward.
What makes this recognition so special isn’t just the national title—it’s the heart behind the work. The Glencoe-Silver Lake FFA Chapter has built a culture rooted in leadership, belonging, and service. Here, students don’t just participate—they thrive. They lift each other up, learn to lead, and dedicate themselves to serving others.
And that culture is evident. This past year alone, chapter members gave back more than $158,000 in service hours and donations to the community. Their officer team has been busy as well, going door-to-door to personally strengthen their relationships with local businesses and supporters.
Three remarkable students—Anna Sievert, Grady Schuft, and Samantha Mattson—represented Glencoe-Silver Lake at the National FFA Convention. Each of them served as chapter president over the last three years, and each helped shape the chapter’s rise to national success.
Chapter advisor Rebekka Paskewitz described the heart of this program beautifully:
"Our goal was never to win an award. Our goal was to build leaders, informed consumers, and better people. Our members know they belong to an organization that challenges them to grow and change. Our success can also be addictive, when members see other members win, they are driven to do the same. And when members buy in to that 'push,' we become great."
I couldn’t agree more. These students are the embodiment of hard work, dedication, and compassion. They remind all of us what’s possible when young people are supported, encouraged, and given the tools to flourish.
I hope you will join us on November 25 to celebrate this national recognition and the outstanding students who made it possible. This is a moment of tremendous local pride, and I’m grateful to share it with all of you!
Sincerely,
Representative Dawn Gillman
Minnesota House of Representatives, District 17A
|
