By Andi Anderson
Cambridge Middle FFA of Illinois was honored as the 2025 National Middle School Model of Excellence during the 98th National FFA Convention & Expo in Indianapolis. The award recognizes chapters that go beyond classroom learning to make a lasting impact on their communities.
The chapter’s winning initiative, known as the “Rise & Brine Project,” introduced students to the concept of farm-to-fork nutrition. Members analyzed food labels, made bread and pickles, and gained firsthand experience in food processing and healthy eating. This hands-on project connected agricultural science to everyday life while encouraging students to make informed food choices.
In partnership with the local farm bureau, members also designed a tractor safety display at a community ice cream shop during National Farm Safety Week. The exhibit helped raise awareness about the importance of safety around farm equipment, reaching both children and adults with vital safety messages.
The National Chapter Award Program celebrates outstanding chapters that align with FFA’s mission of growing leaders, building communities, and strengthening agriculture. Chapters are evaluated across three divisions—leadership, community service, and agricultural development—and those earning three-star ratings advance to compete for premier national titles.
This year, five FFA chapters were finalists for the national award. The program is sponsored by major agricultural organizations including Bayer, Cargill, John Deere, New Holland, Syngenta, and Rabobank.
FFA’s general sessions, including the award presentations, were broadcast live on the FFA Live! stream, allowing supporters nationwide to join in the celebration.
The National FFA Organization continues to empower more than one million student members across over 9,000 local chapters in the U.S., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands—fostering leadership and innovation in agriculture’s next generation.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-poike
Categories: Illinois, Education