The Tri-Valley FFA chapter had an exceptional showing at the New York State FFA Convention, earning statewide recognition for leadership, agriculture education, and community service while competing against more than 225 chapters from across New York State. Tri-Valley was named the Top FFA Chapter in New York State, highlighting the chapter’s dedication, student achievement, and impact both inside and outside the classroom.
The chapter was also recognized as:
- Top Chapter in New York State for Developing Leaders
- Top Chapter in New York State for Strengthening Agriculture
- Second Place Chapter in New York State for Building Communities
Students were recognized across numerous competitions, proficiency awards, and leadership events throughout the convention.
Individual Student Achievements
Griffin Garigliano placed:
- 1st in New York State in Junior Food Science
- 5th in New York State for Junior People in Agriculture
Griffin also received a $500 grant to support an agricultural project focused on renovating a family-owned antique tractor.
Lorenzo Haffner earned a $1,000 Shark Tank prize for his forestry project. His proposal requested funding for new personal protective equipment and a chainsaw and was nearly fully funded.
Several Tri-Valley students earned first-place proficiency honors in their respective categories:
- Grace Deyo — 1st Place, Poultry Proficiency Award
- Mya Ibarra — 1st Place, Agricultural Sales Entrepreneurship
- Katie Dauch — 1st Place, Diversified Horticulture
Agriscience Fair Success
Tri-Valley students also excelled in the New York State Agriscience Fair competitions.
First-place teams included:
- Lily Kopp and Cadence Buckler — Division 2 (Grades 7–8), Social Systems
- Brea Sheeley and Zoey Sullivan — Division 4 (Grades 9–10), Food Products and Processing
- Sariah Mulholland and Caelynn Babcock — Division 6 (Grades 11–12), Plant Systems
In addition, Daniella Mulholland earned 3rd Place in New York State for her Division 3 Individual Agriscience Fair Project in Social Systems.
Community Service and Leadership Recognition
Tri-Valley FFA also placed second in New York State for its efforts supporting local food banks and providing more than 500 birthday cake kits to help children celebrate special occasions.
Brady Knight opened the final convention session by performing the National Anthem in front of more than 3,000 attendees.
The following students were awarded the prestigious State Empire Degree in recognition of their hard work and commitment to their Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) projects:
- Anna Furman
- Lorenzo Haffner
- Diya Patel
- Jeremy Rhode
- Jonathan Rose
- Antonio Walsh
Erin Long was awarded an Honorary Degree for her continued support of the FFA program. In addition, Brian Maher will receive an Honorary Empire Degree upon his return to New York.
The convention concluded with another major accomplishment for Tri-Valley as Emily Lucak was officially inducted into office as the 2026–2027 New York State FFA Sentinel.
Congratulations to all of the students, advisors, and supporters who helped make this year’s convention an incredible success. The accomplishments and leadership displayed by Tri-Valley FFA continue to make the school community proud.