Chapter highlights: Clovis FFA
Nothing says New Mexico like a bowl of chips and salsa… or in this case, a chips and salsa bar. At its end-of-year chapter banquet, Clovis FFA takes a step away from the conventional banquet aesthetic and adds a savory addition to the blue and gold. The Mexicana-themed banquet brings members together to celebrate accomplishments, memories, and experiences over the past year. In addition, chapter officers use the banquet as an opportunity to encourage younger kids in the community to join the organization. “We’re here and we are here for them,” says chapter Treasurer Kelci Fish. Maybe it’s something in the salsa. Or maybe it’s something in the members who have put forth hard work and dedication to bring success to Clovis FFA.
Speaking of hard work and dedication, Clovis FFA members have facilitated growth for the chapter through some community-centered projects. In the past couple months, members have been working on the You-Pick Flower Farm. “This exciting project will provide hands-on learning opportunities while offering a beautiful selection of flowers for the community to enjoy,” says the chapter. Clovis FFA also put on a succulent sale this past Valentine’s Day. The succulents were raised by the Greenhouse Class as a way to help fund student projects and expenses. Furthermore, the chapter has marketed the project through its official Facebook and Instagram pages. “For our fundraisers, we have to promote them, or we won’t get many sales,” explains chapter President Guadalupe Anchondo. From seed to flower, the flower farm and succulent sale are a fresh addition to Clovis’s list of community-centered opportunities.
In addition to the farm, Clovis FFA spent time making a difference in the lives of those around them. In a joint effort with the Student Council, Clovis FFA made warm blankets to donate to the local nursing home. Members worked together on this service project to build a foundation of giving back to the community that provides so much support for the program.
However, community involvement isn’t the only thing that they have built. In the last year, participation in the metal shop has seen a major increase. “This year, welding has kind of taken off,” says chapter Treasurer Kelci Fish. Members constructed an array of Ag Mechanics projects, which they entered in the State Fair. Clovis took Reserve Grand Champion for their 16' livestock trailer in the “Trailers” division and Cooper Adair placed 2nd in the “Agricultural” division with his BBQ smoker. Chapter President Guadalupe Anchondo earned 4th place with her “Flower Farm” sign. Featured below are some of the projects built by Clovis FFA members.
The Clovis FFA Chapter prioritizes diverse involvement across all ages, backgrounds, and interests. Chapter Secretary Niamh McWilliams emphasizes inclusion, stating, “If you’re a senior and you want to be involved in something, we’re not going to say no. Just because you may be an older member doesn’t mean you don’t have a place.” The Clovis Chapter Officers aim to take the next step for the chapter, even if the path isn’t so straight. Whether you’re just joining the program or you have only a couple months left, an adventure awaits in Clovis FFA. “Adventurous” is the word that best describes the chapter.