The National FFA Organization (FFA) announces its national finalists in August. Brandon Funk of the Elgin FFA was selected as a national finalist for the National FFA Proficiency Award in Grain Production – Placement. Funk, the son of Ron and Angela Funk of Clearwater, he is one of only four people chosen to compete for this award at the national finals to be held Oct. 28 during the 88th National FFA Convention & Expo in Louisville, Ky.
Elgin FFA Advisor Julia Schwartz provided information Thursday indicating the proficiency awards recognize outstanding student achievement in agribusiness gained through establishment of a new business, working for an existing company or otherwise gaining hands-on career experience.
The Grain Production – Placement Award is one of 49 proficiency program areas FFA members can participate in to develop valuable experience and leadership skills at the local, state and national levels.
Funk, a member of the Elgin FFA Chapter, became eligible for the national award after winning the Nebraska state FFA competition earlier this year.
This award is sponsored by CF Industries, Inc., as a special project of the National FFA Foundation. In recognition of being a finalist, each of the four finalists received a plaque and $500. The national winner of the Grain Production – Placement Award will receive an additional $500 during a special ceremony at the national FFA convention. Also, Schwartz said two other Elgin FFA members earned honors.
Silver Merit Awards
Two other Elgin FFA members earned national recognition. Trey Baum, the son of Chris and Jeanine Baum, and his proficiency of Beef Entrepreneurship, received a Silver Merit award at Nationals while Trent Bauer, the son of Terry and Mary Bauer, with his proficiency of Small Animal Care and Management Entrepreneurship, also received a Silver Merit award.
