HERMISTON — Hermiston Future Farmers of America had a standout performance at the 2025 Oregon FFA State Convention on March 20-23 in Redmond, joining more than 3,500 attendees from across the state.

According to a press release from the Hermiston School District, the chapter was honored with the Superior Chapter Award, recognizing its strong community involvement, active participation in FFA events and excellence in chapter operations.

Hermiston students earned first place in Advanced Parliamentary Procedure, with team members Cheyanne Lancaster, Balie Wilson, Taylee Smith, Alexis Sinor, Kari Bazan and Jesse Kirkpatrick qualifying for nationals for the third consecutive year.

The Agricultural Issues team of Elle Blakely, Cozy Cooley, Cate Doherty, Addie Alder and Ainsley McCann also took first place and will advance to nationals with their presentation on converting farmland into solar farms.

In individual events, Casey Scott qualified for nationals in the Agriscience Fair for his research on the effects of goat grazing on soil. Cate Doherty placed second in the state in Employment  Skills, showcasing her professional readiness.

Hermiston FFA members Catherine Doherty, Delaney Wieseler, Daniel Meyers, Jedidiah Golightly, Gaby Mendoza and Denisse Bracamontes received their state FFA degrees, the highest honor at the state level.

“These students continue to represent Hermiston with excellence, passion, and leadership,” Hermiston FFA adviser Sandy McKay said. “We’re proud of their hard work and success.”