For many FFA members, earning the Keystone Degree represents a significant milestone. While it’s not the final award members can achieve, it is one of the most important and recognizes dedication, growth, and leadership in agriculture.
Despite bad weather and school closure on the day the awards were presented, five dedicated members from the Tyrone Area FFA Chapter traveled to the PA Farm Show complex to officially receive the once-in-a-lifetime achievement.
The Keystone Degree is awarded to members who have earned their Greenhand and Chapter degrees, completed at least 25 hours of community service, and participated in at least 15 FFA activities.
This achievement acknowledges their hard work and encourages continued striving for excellence. This year, 511 Keystone Degrees were awarded statewide, the largest number in association history.
Tyrone Area FFA Advisor Tiffany Hoy dedicates considerable time to motivating students to document their hours and finances for their Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) programs.
“Observing their growth in confidence and witnessing them achieve this significant milestone makes all the effort worthwhile,” Hoy said. “I am thrilled that each recipient of the Keystone Degree from Tyrone Area FFA chapter will be awarded a scholarship at the conclusion of the school year for accomplishing this goal.”
The 2025 Keystone Degree recipients are as follows:
Caleb Biter has been a member of the Tyrone Area FFA for three years, participating in AgriScience Research projects and serving on various student-driven committees. He plans to major in microbiology and will attend Indiana University of Pennsylvania in the fall.
Logan Harpster, a four-year FFA member, has engaged in multiple SAE projects, including placement at Evergreen Farms. He served as the Go Kits Safety committee chair and plans to attend Penn Tech.
Nevaeh Hollabaugh has held numerous leadership roles, including committee chair positions; with her current position as Ag Literacy chair. She has also participated in SAE placements. Upon graduation, Hollabaugh plans to attend Wilson College and become a veterinary assistant.
Nora Hoy, a four-year member, has completed various SAE projects with a focus on AgriScience research. She has held multiple officer positions and currently serves as the chapter president. She aims to double major in Concert Dance and Environmental Science at Slippery Rock University.
Sarah Zimmerman, a four-year FFA member, has participated in SAE’s in Market hogs and AgriScience research projects. She plans to study kinesiology at Penn State University.
The Pennsylvania FFA Midwinter Convention was a celebration of hard work, dedication, and the bright future of its members in the agricultural community.
