Hundreds of FFA members and sponsors attended the 80th annual FFA convention held Indianapolis, Ind., from Oct. 25 through  28.
    While at the convention, former Wellington FFA member David White received national recognition when he was honored with his  American Degree, the highest degree and award given from the National FFA Organization.
    Attaining the American FFA Degree requires a commitment to agriculture and FFA. The award encourages FFA members to grow and initiate themselves toward their agricultural career.
    Only 15 Wellington FFA members —including White — have ever been honored with the prestigious American Degree.
    The road to receiving the American Degree is lengthy. A student has their own Supervised Agriculture Experiences (SAE), which they keep accurate records on during and beyond their high school career. The member must also attend a certain number of FFA activities that include: chapter meetings, chapter activities, district contests, state contests, State Convention, National Convention, etc. Once completing the requirements, and FFA member first applies for their State Degree. After receiving the State Degree, the student continues and furthers their SAE and then applies for the American Degree which is reviewed by a panel consisting of National FFA staff members.
    White is the son of Robert and Barbara White of Wellington and is currently attending Kansas State University.