06/21/2026
๐๐ 98th Florida FFA State Convention & Expo Recognition๐๐
โญ๐บ๐ธ American FFA Degree Candidates AKA โThe Dream Teamโ ๐บ๐ธโญ
Some accomplishments deserve more than a simple congratulations. Some represent years of hard work, sacrifice, leadership, growth, and dedication. Today, we are proud to recognize three Brooksville Sr FFA members who have earned the opportunity to receive the American FFA Degree, the highest degree awarded by the National FFA Organization.
This prestigious honor is awarded to less than one-half of one percent of all FFA members nationwide, placing these individuals among the very best our organization has to offer. This fall, they will travel to Indianapolis, Indiana, where they will be officially conferred with the American FFA Degree during the National FFA Convention.
๐บ๐ธ Daniel Staub
Although Daniel was unable to attend State Convention, he was busy pursuing an opportunity that perfectly represents what FFA can make possible. Daniel is currently serving as one of the youngest breeding and reproductive interns at the world-famous 6666 Ranch in Guthrie, Texas. There, he works alongside leading industry professionals, veterinarians, veterinary students, and professors from Texas A&M University, where he will begin his studies this fall.
Within our program, Daniel was everywhere. He served as a chapter officer, exhibited livestock projects, earned his Veterinary Assisting certification, competed, volunteered, and embraced every opportunity placed in front of him. If there was a way to be involved, Daniel found it. Watching his journey unfold has been a reminder of just how far a blue jacket can take someone who is willing to dive in and absorb everything this organization has to offer.
๐บ๐ธ Hunter Fraccica
Hunter has found success with just about every livestock species imaginableโeven the ones that actively try to kill him, and yes, even rabbits despite a severe rabbit allergy. Somehow, he still manages to find himself in the winner's circle.
As Chapter President, Hunter led with enthusiasm, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to serving others. He had a gift for making everyone feel welcome and valued, and his impact on our chapter left some very large shoes to fill.
Over the years, Hunter has partnered with the University of Florida through various agricultural opportunities and experiences. He hopes to soon become a Gator himself and pursue a degree in Agricultural Law, where there is no doubt he will become a strong advocate for agriculture, our producers, and the future of the American farmer.
๐บ๐ธ Devin Maxson
Every successful program has a few people who become its foundation. Devin is one of those people.
A chapter officer, recruiter, mentor, and friend to countless members, Devin has been a constant presence in our program. He never sought recognition, but he earned it through his actions. He consistently welcomed new members, shared his passion for agriculture, and demonstrated that true leadership comes through kindness, compassion, and consistency.
When challenges arose, Devin was often the steady hand that kept the ship pointed due north. He has been a guiding light for many around him and has helped shape the culture of our chapter in ways that will continue long after graduation.
As he pursues a career in culinary arts, he will continue telling agriculture's storyโtransforming the commodities and products produced by American farmers into something that connects people to our industry every day.
๐๐ A Legacy That Will Last
These three young men hold a special place in my heart, and when people ask about the success of our program, I can confidently say they are part of the reason why.
Their achievements did not happen overnight. They required years of hard work, commitment, growth, and yesโmore than a few moments of "loud persuasion" from their advisor. I have several gray hairs that could probably be named after them.
What makes them special is not that they never made mistakes. It's that they accepted criticism, learned from it, and turned those lessons into success stories. They chose growth over excuses, leadership over comfort, and service over recognition.
The legacy they leave behind will continue long after they hang up their blue jackets for the final time. They are living proof of what can happen when students fully invest themselves in agricultural education, FFA, and the opportunities placed before them.
Please join us in congratulating Daniel Staub, Hunter Fraccica, and Devin Maxson on earning the opportunity to receive the American FFA Degreeโan accomplishment reserved for the very best of the best.
We are incredibly proud of you and cannot wait to watch what comes next.
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