Addison Smith, a senior at West Plains High School, was among 30 high school students from across the state to complete the 12th annual Helping Youth Prepare for Excellence (HYPE) FFA Academy, held June 23 through 25 in Jefferson City.
Sponsored by the Missouri Corn Merchandising Council, the leadership academy seeks to equip high school seniors with the communication and advocacy skills needed for conversations about agriculture and issues facing Missouri farmers.
Smith and the other students learned how to effectively share their experiences in farming, overcome obstacles and develop their communication and personal skills. Learning sessions included advocacy training, communication basics and social media outreach.
Students also heard from farmers, industry representatives, social media influencers and congressional staff about how to communicate effectively on key issues. The group toured the Missouri Soybean Center for Innovation to learn more about the advancements and research being done on behalf of farmers.
The academy concluded with mock legislative hearings at the Missouri State Capitol, where students presented on key agricultural issues before Missouri state legislators. Participants also had the chance to meet with Missouri Director of Agriculture Chris Chinn.
