FFA looks to advance goals as advisor continues absence

Julianna Poe, Sports Editor

In the time since FFA hosted a game night themed welcoming event — where they feasted on food and fun — the club has faced unplanned rescheduling and cancellation of events and the absence of one of their sponsors.

“We wanted to make sure we get it right and make sure members can have fun in FFA,” chapter president Chanae Parker, senior, said. “It’s safe to say we are still learning as an officer team, but that is what any team should do: learn throughout the adventure.”

Of the activities that have had scheduling conflicts — which include FFA leadership night for officers and a Konza hike for all members, — the hike was postponed and later canceled because of the rainy weather, last-minute members opting-out and miscommunication with club trip forms.

“I feel like [the cancelation] caused a little confusion between officers and advisors,” junior and FFA vice president Tessarae Harris said, “but I really don’t think it has really impacted us.”

Just two weeks into the 2019-2020 school year, FFA sponsor Elissa Mullinix left for maternity leave and Ty Nienke filled in her position as both club sponsor and horticulture teacher.

“It’s been a smooth transition,” Parker said. “We talked about our goals as a chapter with him and he has been very helpful in working with all of us to meet them.”

According to Parker, this year FFA looks to focus on “attendance, active participation, fundraising and having fun.” In addition, the club plans to learn parliamentary law.

“We are learning about it together,” Parker said. “It’s something that’s new for a lot of people and can be really confusing … We want to cover [parliamentary law] at the leadership night, as it is an integral part of an efficient club meeting.”

To achieve these goals, the club aims to have regular meetings — both officer and member level — and strive to work together by participating in group activities.

“We plan on … working as a team,” junior and FFA secretary Ryane Stipe said. “We’re inviting to everybody and we want everybody to succeed.”

Moving forward, FFA plans to attend a pumpkin patch at Britt’s, host a club leadership night and possibly put on a leadership night for officers.

“It’s such an honor to be able to work with such a great group of officers and members,” Parker said. “I’m so excited to see what we can do throughout the year and how our club will continue to grow.”