Twenty-two Tyrone Area FFA members recently participated in the ACES Conference held at the Sheraton Hotel in Harrisburg on four different weekends from the end of January to the end of February.
ACES was an amazing chance for me to connect with individuals who share the common goal of improving and advocating for the agricultural industry. I enjoyed interacting with this year’s state officers as well as new and old friends
— Reilly Rawlings
The conference’s theme, “Dare to Be a Star,” was highlighted through a series of workshops designed to help students develop various skills essential for their as leaders and future careers.
Freshmen and sophomores had the opportunity to learn about professionalism, goal-setting, stepping out of comfort zones, team building, and creating successful social media posts. They also engaged in networking with peers from different FFA chapters.
“ACES was an amazing chance for me to connect with individuals who share the common goal of improving and advocating for the agricultural industry. I enjoyed interacting with this year’s state officers as well as new and old friends,” sophomore Reilly Rawlings said.
Juniors and seniors delved deeper into topics such as planning, perseverance, networking, achieving life balance, and advocacy.
“I encourage everyone to attend ACES, regardless of your background in agriculture. It was a fun and enriching experience where you meet new people and acquire essential life skills for the future,” junior Nevaeh Hollabaugh said.
The event concluded with a social evening on Saturday featuring board games and a dance, followed by breakfast and recap workshops on the final day to reflect on the activities and lessons learned.
“I thought this conference was all about farm animals and business leadership, but it turned out to be more about making friends, teamwork, and self-expression. The workshop on teamwork pushed me out of my comfort zone, helping me make new friends and embrace authenticity,” freshman Gabbreella Dean said.
Participants included Remington Weaver, Frances Weaver, Isaac Weaver, Nora Hoy, Paige Hoy, Wyatt Walls, Reilly Rawlings, Nevaeh Hollabaugh, Logan Harpster, Alyssa Houck, Sarah Weakland, Kaylee Little, Madisen Jones, Carlie Nowlin, Abigail Keyser, Gabbreella Dean, Maverick Fleck, John Eaken, Josie Dicken, Abby Lucas, Catie Sklenar, and Janice Gilliland. The FFA members extend their thanks to Ms. Kelsey Broadfield, Career and College Adviser, and Mrs. Tiffany Hoy, FFA Advisor, for their roles as chaperones and for overseeing transportation.
I thought this conference was all about farm animals and business leadership, but it turned out to be more about making friends, teamwork, and self-expression.
— Gabbreella Dean
