Little Switzerland FFA Chapter from Waukon High School competes in Milk Quality and Products event at National FFA Convention

Members of the Little Switzerland Future Farmers of America (FFA) Chapter at Waukon High School formed one of the 37 teams participating in the National FFA Milk Quality and Products Career Development Event (CDE). The event was held in conjunction with the 85th National FFA Convention held at the Indiana State Fairgrounds in Indianapolis, IN October 24-27.
The team, led by advisor and Waukon High School teacher Jessica O’Connor, represented the state of Iowa in the national CDE after winning top honors at September's state level of competition. Behind the strength of a national championship won in the area of milk fat identification, the team placed 22nd overall in the national CDE competition and was awarded a silver emblem.
Individually, out of 143 competitors overall, sophomore Riley Bodley finished 60th and earned a silver emblem, senior Shelby Bodley placed 64th and earned a silver emblem, junior Krystal Johnson finished 92nd and earned a silver emblem, and junior Shaylie Stortz placed 105th and earned a bronze emblem.
The top ten individuals and the national winning team members received cash awards to recognize their success in the event. The milk and cheese products used for the event were provided by Fair Oaks Farms of Fair Oaks, IN.
After departing Waukon Tuesday, October 23, the team spent the first day of the CDE in Indianapolis in team competition, which included analyzing various milk quality tests completed in the industry. The team was recognized Friday, October 26 at a luncheon where team members received their team plaque and individual medals.
"The team spent a month practicing for the contest, usually coming into school both morning and night," FFA Advisor Jessica O'Connor said. "The girls felt confident they did well after the second day of the event. Their dedication and hard work were well rewarded at the end and I am proud of all they have accomplished. It was an experience of a lifetime that I am sure they will not forget!"
The National Milk Quality and Products CDE is a competitive event that allows students to prove their knowledge about the recognition, selection and management necessary for quality milk and dairy products. Participants must complete a written exam on milk production and marketing, evaluate milk samples for flavor and quality, identify cheeses and characteristics and complete milk acceptability tests in the team activity. Each team competed at local and state levels to earn the privilege to represent their state at the National FFA Convention.
The CDE competitions are some of the many educational activities at the national convention in which FFA members apply classroom knowledge to real-life situations.