Pictured from left, are FFA 2019-20 Officers Katie Sharp, Lexi Funnell, Hailey Arnold, Brent Studebaker, Ryan Stump, Robert Werstler, Claire Keirn and Isabella Umanzor.

SOUTH WHITLEY — Congratulations were in order for the Whitko FFA last week as they hosted their annual dinner banquet and awards ceremony.

During this celebration, it is also a time to recognize the hard work of the senior class, thank the current officers and welcome the newest officers to their posts. For the audience, it is also a refreshing change of pace to learn the duties of each office and ultimately appreciate the hard work of the students who have held the position for the past year as well as those who are about to embark upon an officer role this year.

After the dinner banquet, students were treated to a motivational speech given by Jarrett Bailey. Bailey is a sentinel as a part of the state officers’ team for 2018-19. He shared stories from his childhood that were meant to relate a higher motivating purpose while blending humor and leadership development.

The highlight of the evening for students and attendees was the farewell speech given by Whitko’s FFA sponsor Karrin Koontz. Unknown to those in attendance, she had prepared a personalized speech. Throughout her time on stage, she recognized each student by name and recollected memories she felt highlighted the best moments of the year. She also cast vision for her hopes for the future of the Whitko FFA program, which included a look back at the past decades of Whitko’s rise in success within Indiana and the nation, and a desire to help the students in the program climb back to that pinnacle of success again.