Shyann and Chayse received this distinguished recognition during the 98th National FFA Convention & Expo held on November 1, 2025.
Each year, the National FFA Organization honors members who demonstrate exceptional commitment to premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education. Fewer than one percent of FFA members nationwide achieve the American FFA Degree, making this an extraordinary accomplishment.
“I am extremely proud of these young ladies,” shared Windy City FFA Chapter Advisor Wendy Pollock. “Less than 1% of FFA members ever reach this milestone. It takes a lot of hard work and dedication to keep records, serve the community, and plan a path for the future. I feel that Chayse and Shyann are exemplary examples of what an FFA member should be.”
Congratulations to Shyann and Chayse for representing Kelly Walsh High School, the Windy City FFA Chapter, and Natrona County with excellence and pride!
See the full release from the National FFA Organization below:
The American FFA Degree is bestowed upon a select group of students in recognition of their years of academic and professional excellence. This year, over 5,200 American Degrees were awarded.
Shyann Garbutt and Chayse Schierkolk, members of the Windy City FFA chapter at Kelly Walsh High School in Casper, WY, were awarded the American FFA Degree at the 98th National FFA Convention & Expo on November 1, 2025.
Sponsored by Bayer, Cargill, Case IH, John Deere, Rabobank, and Syngenta, the award recognizes demonstrated ability and outstanding achievements in agricultural business, production, processing, or service programs.
To be eligible, FFA members must have earned at least $10,000 or earned at least $2,000 and worked at least 2,250 hrs. outside of class time through a supervised agricultural experience (SAE) program in which they own their own business, hold a professional position as an employee, or conduct research. Recipients must also complete 50 hours of community service and demonstrate outstanding leadership abilities and civic involvement through the completion of a long list of FFA and community activities. Less than one percent of FFA members achieve the American FFA Degree.
After being recognized at the national convention, each recipient of the American FFA Degree receives a gold American FFA Degree key and certificate.
The National FFA Organization is a school-based national youth leadership development organization of more than 1,042,245 student members as part of 9,407 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
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About National FFA Organization
The National FFA Organization is a school-based national youth leadership development organization of more than 1,042,245 student members as part of 9,407 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The FFA mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. For more, visit the National FFA Organization online at FFA.org and on Facebook and Twitter.
About National FFA Foundation
The National FFA Foundation builds partnerships with industry, education, government, other foundations and individuals to secure financial resources that recognize FFA member achievements, develop student leaders and support the future of agricultural education. A separately registered nonprofit organization, the foundation is governed by a board of trustees that includes the national FFA president, educators, business leaders and individual donors. For more, visit FFA.org/Give.