Beech Tree News Network

Less than two percent of former FFA members go on to earn an American FFA Degree. This year former 2020 BCHS graduate, Mattie Wells, became a member of this statistic.

Even more astounding is that she shares this honor with her father, Shane Wells, an American Degree holder himself.

Almost 30 years to the day her father received his degree, Mattie was able to walk across the stage in front of thousands at the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, IN, on October 30th to receive her own.

Mattie's love for agriculture grew from working on her family's beef, soybean, and corn production farm. Her involvement in FFA evolved each year as she became more involved in her high school chapter. Throughout her high school years, she was elected as Sentinel, Secretary, and finally as President of her local chapter.

While speaking to Mattie about her accomplishment, she couldn't help but mention that her father was one of her main reasons for pursuing this achievement. A former FFA member and farmer in our community, Shane Wells, urged his daughter to apply.

The strenuous requirements to earn the American FFA Degree is included but are not limited to:

   Maintaining detailed SAE (Supervised Agricultural Experience) records.

   A record of outstanding leadership skills.

   Extensive participation in community service.

   Having maintained at least a "C" average.

Currently, Mattie is attending Western Kentucky University, majoring in education. She loves working with children and has a drive and desire to make a difference in children's lives. Being an active FFA member teaches young adults to be active leaders, innovators, and caring community members. These are skills that Ms. Wells possesses and will continue to use as she grows into her career.

In closing, a snippet from the FFA Creed by E.M. Tiffany describing how FFA members are instructed to serve their communities:

"I believe that American agriculture can and will hold true to the best traditions of our national life and that I can exert an influence in my home and community which will stand solid for my part in that inspiring task".