The DACC and Big Walnut Food Science & Technology team was named National Champions at the 2025 National FFA Convention! With gold ratings awarded to each student and a 1st place overall team finish, this group earned national recognition and a $1,000 cash award per member.
Team Members:
Joshua S. – 1st Place Individual
Madi D. – 15th Place Individual
Riley N. – 21st Place Individual
Lainey S. – 27th Place Individual
In addition to the honor, students will travel to the International Production & Processing Expo in Atlanta this January, an opportunity generously sponsored by the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association.
We are also celebrating the Floriculture Team for earning a Gold Rating and 11th place overall as well as the Milk Quality & Products Team for earning a Gold Rating and 10th place overall.
The event allowed students to grow their understanding of our food system by learning to analyze data, completing sensory evaluation products, and working together to solve complex problems. The team had the opportunity to network with other competitors, meet industry representatives, and present to college professors during the event.
Special thanks to:
Tamarack Dairy and Mr. Brian Snodgrass
Mr. Chris Dible for assisting with practices and being a resource for the team
Dr. Martha Belury, Mrs. Thalia Blight, Dr. Louise Campbell, Mr. Rick Kirk, Dr. Lynn Knipe, Mrs. Julie Peterson, and Dr. Brian Waters from the Ohio State Department of Food Science and Technology and the Ohio State College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences
Mentors and supporters, and instructors, including Mrs. Febes, Mr. Stimmell, and Dr. Mary Kay Pohlschneider
Congratulations, students, staff, and families!