Thomas Boggs of Warsaw is a student at Huntington University where he is studying agronomy and agriculture business. He earned numerous awards while in FFA and 4-H. Photo provided by Thomas Boggs.

News Release

INDIANAPOLIS — Each year, the National FFA Organization honors FFA members who show dedication to the organization through their desire to develop their potential for leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.

The American FFA Degree is bestowed upon a select group of students in recognition of their years of academic and professional excellence. This year, more than 4,800 American Degrees will be awarded.

Thomas Boggs, a member of the FFA chapter in Warsaw, is set to receive an American FFA Degree during the 97th National FFA Convention & Expo on Oct. 26.

Sponsored by Cargill, Case IH, John Deere and Syngenta, the award recognizes ability and achievements in agricultural business, production, processing or service programs.

To be eligible, FFA members must have earned at least $10,000 or earned at least $2,000 and worked at least 2,250 hours outside of class time through a supervised agricultural experience program in which they own their own business, hold a professional position as an employee or conduct research. Recipients must also complete 50 hours of community service and demonstrate leadership abilities and civic involvement through the completion of a list of FFA and community activities. Less than one percent of FFA members achieve the American FFA Degree.

After being recognized at the national convention, each recipient of the American FFA Degree receives a gold American FFA Degree key and certificate.

The National FFA Organization is a school-based national youth leadership development organization of more than 1,027,200 student members as part of 9,235 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.