A delegation of Callaway High School FFA students traveled to the State FFA Conference in Lincoln March 29 - 31, under the leadership of Chapter Advisor Amanda Chytka.

In addition to competing in the various individual and team events, the students listened to motivational keynote speakers, participated in leadership academies and workshops, took facility tours, enjoyed scavenger hunts, banquets and a plethora of other events planned for the 6,000 members, advisors and guests in attendance during the three day convention.

Receiving their coveted State Degrees were Jocelyn Bailey, Grant Hrupek, Matthew Mannon, Kaden Paulsen, Taylor Ross and Abby Stallbaumer.

The Callaway Ag Sales team consisting of Addison Bailey, Taylor Ross, Abby Stallbaumer and CJ Quandt finished 18th out of the 36 teams entered.

Out of 128 Natural Resources teams competing at the state level, the Callaway team finished in 50th place. Team members are Grant Hrupek - who earned a 16th place ribbon, Kaden Paulsen, Joey Sallach and Matthew Mannon who competed as an alternate.

In the Floraculture competition the Callaway team finished 36th in the 57 team field. The team consisted of Chenney Dishman, Abby Stallbaumer, Jocelyn Bailey and Delaynie Laible.

“Our students have worked hard and have earned their success. Being in a small school these kids are busy as busy gets. They put in all they can, and it is not an easy task, but they have proved hard work and dedication can make it happen,” said Advisor Chytka. “It is fun to be able to take them to Lincoln to compete with chapters throughout the state, but also cool to see the connections these kids make while they are there. I am very proud of each and every one of them and hope everyone can help us celebrate their hard work and accomplishments at our annual banquet Monday night. These kids deserve the spotlight!”

The full list of qualifiers for the State Convention from the Callaway Chapter is as follows: Grant Hrupek - Natural Resources and State Degree; Joey Sallach - Natural Resources; Matthew Mannon - State Degree; CJ Quandt - Ag Sales; Dylan Pandorf - Delegate; Addison Bailey Ag Sales; Delaynie Laible - Floriculture; Tesa Pandorf - Delegate/Alternate; Jocelyn Bailey - Floriculture and State Degree; Abby Stallbaumer - Floriculture, Ag Sales and State Degree; Kaygan Witthuhn - Alternate; Ava Pandorf - Natural Resources; Taylor Ross - Ag Sales and State Degree; Maggie Birkel - Alternate; Kaden Paulsen - Natural Resources and State Degree; Chenney Dishman - Floriculture; Neltje Reiff - Alternate.