Murray Independent FFA Chapter Celebrates National FFA Week
Murray Independent's FFA Chapter may be fairly new to Murray Independent High School, but the opportunities the organization offers to students are vast. Last year the Murray Independent FFA Chapter had only six members, however, this year there are currently 35 active members in the FFA chapter that includes classes such as Greenhouse, Animal Science, Agmath and Small Animal Sciences.
This spring many FFA members are preparing their Agriscience Fair projects, working towards earning their Greenhand Degrees and preparing speeches for upcoming contests. For National FFA Week, the Murray FFA will be thanking farmers and teachers, enjoying a spirit week, and celebrating with the entire student body.
Howard has grown immensely from the addition of the program. "Murray Independent introducing an agriculture program to our school was a blessing in disguise," she explained. "The FFA has given me so many opportunities, and has completely transformed me as a student, person, and leader."
As the Chapter grows and students become more interested and involved in the program, new projects have started to benefit students for years to come. The Murray High School campus will soon have a greenhouse which will allow students to experience the growth, development and sale of many different plant varieties.
Brittany Forgey, Murray Independent FFA Advisor, said the chapter recently learned they are the recipients of a five-thousand dollar grant from Battelle Education TSIN/STEMX STEM Classroom Grants, sponsored by TVA and BVI. Over 300 applications were received requesting over $1.4 million in funding. Murray High School is one of numerous school districts to be awarded the grant for the project, "Go Green, a Greenhouse for Life."
The Murray Independent FFA Chapter is led by Carson Gilliam, president, Grayson Gibson, vice-president, Kelly Parr, secretary, Ryann Doss, treasurer, Farris Howard, reporter, and Lane Holmes, sentinel.
Gilliam said as president he has seen first-hand the impact of the chapter. "The FFA is more of a family than an organization, everyone that wears the blue jacket has a bond to help each other and has the duty to serve the community together."
"FFA has taught me how to come out of my comfort zone and try new things," said Lane Holmes.
Parr said FFA has helped her develop leadership skills. “These skills will help me be successful in all areas."
"Murray Independent FFA has amazing students and many new projects which will lead to a bright future," Forgey said.
As the Greenhouse Project grows and develops, donations are always welcome to assist with the project. For more information, or to make a donation, contact Britany Forgey at brittany.forgey@murray.kyschools.us.
To view the Murray Independent FFA Salute Video visit: https://bit.ly/3LVidef