Hinsdale FFA Member Selected to Compete Nationally

The Hinsdale FFA Chapter has been selected to compete for national recognition in the career development event Creed at the 90th National FFA Convention and Expo in Indianapolis, Ind., Oct 25 through Oct. 28. FFA member and sophomore at Hinsdale School Danika Soper will be representing the chapter at the event.

Soper, an FFA member for four years, competed in the Creed Speaking Event at her chapter contest as a freshman earlier this year, which was her first experience with competing in the event. She ended up winning the district contest in February which qualified her for the State level.

To say she was shocked at finding out she won is an understatement. "I was surprised that I had even made it to the final four at the State level," said Soper. "As I was waiting with the other FFA members that I was competing against, I found out they have been reciting the Creed for two or three years. At that point, I was already feeling beat, by my lack of experience. When they didn't call my name for fourth, third then not even second place, I felt almost confused. I heard cheering coming from my chapter members as they then announced my name. I felt an overwhelming feeling of support and excitement."

According to the FFA website, the FFA Creed outlines the organization's values and beliefs regarding the industry of agriculture, FFA membership as well as citizenship and patriotism. Students participating in the Creed Speaking Leadership Development Event learn to communicate in a powerful, organized and professional manner. They also build self-confidence which can be applied to all aspects of their lives. Outstanding FFA members are recognized for their ability to memorize and present the FFA Creed followed by answering questions on the meaning and purpose of the Creed.

The Creed Speaking Career Development Event is designed solely for members who qualified while in the seventh, eighth or ninth-grade. Creed is one of 25 career/leadership development event areas, covering job skills in everything from communications to mechanics. "Every FFA member recites the Creed as part of their Greenhand degree to become a member of the Chapter," said Soper.

The Hinsdale FFA Chapter is still accepting donations for the travel expenses associated with the trip. Donations can be sent to the Hinsdale School, 600 Montana Street, Hinsdale or contact at 406-364-2314.