Blackwell High School’s Kent Tripp is a senior and a member of the FFA chapter at Blackwell. Tripp first got involved in FFA when he was only a freshman thanks to his father suggesting he give it a try.

“I first got involved in FFA my freshman year of high school, however as a farm kid, agriculture has always been a part of my life. My dad suggested that I join FFA, but I already had my mind made up that FFA was something I wanted to be a part of,” said Tripp. “I enjoy the opportunities to meet new people the most out of anything as an FFA member.”

Tripp is also a member of the varsity basketball team for the last four years. As a basketball player Tripp understands the value of hard work. In FFA, Tripp uses those same values in showing animals and being a valued member of his chapter.

“I show cattle, shoot sporting clays, and livestock judge, along with serving as our chapter president this year,” said Tripp.

Tripp has enjoyed many of the opportunities the FFA have afforded him, including serving as his chapter president this year.

“My favorite memory as a member of FFA was going to the State FFA convention my freshman year of high school. I had some really good friends and a fun advisor, and I learned a lot,” said Tripp.

Tripp said his plans after high school include going to college and continuing working in agriculture.

“My plans after high school are to go to Oklahoma State University and get a degree in Agribusiness. I’m really not sure what all I am interested in, but hopefully once I get on college campus, I’ll have an idea,” said Tripp.

The President offers this advice to anyone looking into FFA.

“I would tell them that FFA is not just for “farmers,” but there is something in FFA for anyone. I would also encourage them to get involved with as my activities and organizations as possible while they’re in high school because it will pay off in time.”