Smith named national finalist in FFA agricultural sales

BONNERS FERRY — FFA Entrepreneurship Award winner Thomas R. Smith, a student at Bonners Ferry High School, will compete in the FFA finals this October in Indianapolis, Ind.

The National FFA Organization recently announced Smith’s selection as a national finalist for the National FFA Proficiency Award in Agricultural Sales — Entrepreneurship. Smith is one of only four people chosen to compete for this award at the national finals to be held this October during the 89th National FFA Convention & Expo.

The proficiency awards recognize outstanding student achievement in agribusiness gained through establishment of a new business, working for an existing company or otherwise gaining hands-on career experience. The Agricultural Sales — Entrepreneurship award is one of 47 proficiency program areas FFA members can participate in to develop valuable experience and leadership skills at the local, state and national levels.

Smith, a member of the Bonners Ferry FFA Chapter, became eligible for the national award after winning the Idaho state FFA competition earlier this year. In recognition of being a finalist, each of the four finalists will receive a plaque and $500. The national winner of the Agricultural Sales - Entrepreneurship Award will receive an additional $500 during a special ceremony at the National FFA Convention & Expo.

This award is sponsored by Crop Production Services as a special project of the National FFA Foundation. The National FFA Organization provides leadership, personal growth and career success training through agricultural education to 629,367 student members who belong to one of 7,757 local FFA chapters throughout the U.S., Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.