Written by Olivia Thilges
On Monday, April 14th, students of the Algona FFA chapter traveled to Ames, Iowa, for the State FFA Leadership Conference. Students Ace Studer, Ryan Barglof, Cassidy Bierstedt, Malea Divis, Walker Eilerts, Grace Luitjens, and Grady Ruger participated in a series of events during the three days while down in Ames.
On the first day of the State Conference, students Malea Divis and Grace Luitjens participated in job shadowing. In the afternoon, students were able to do a series of workshops. During this day the Algona FFA chapter was also recognized for the FFA Foundation Ambassador Award. Students were able to listen to many different speakers throughout the day. These speakers talked about topics from choosing happiness to what drives your purpose. Cassidy Bierstedt, Malea Divis, and Grace Luitjens participated in Courtesy Corps.
The second day the Algona FFA had a busy day. Grace Luitjens and Grady Ruger participated in the Greenhand Quiz. Grace Luitjens received a silver and Grady Ruger got a gold. Ace Studer and Ryan Barglof both participated in a business session as Official Delegates. Walker Eilerts, Cassidy Bierstedt, and
Malea
Divis participated in a poultry evaluation. During the afternoon, Malea Divis accepted the National Chapter Award for the club. They also got to listen to many retiring addresses. They finished up the day with the Iowa Degree Ceremony, year in review slide show, and installation of the 2025-2026 officers. During this, Ace Studer received his Iowa Degree. Chris Dodds also received this honor but was not in attendance at State. Malea Divis comments on her time at FFA Convention, “FFA helps you find new opportunities and make memories that will last a lifetime.”