During the Indiana FFA State Convention, Erin Gilley, agricultural educator and FFA advisor at Southmont High School, was awarded the Honorary Indiana FFA State Degree, one of the highest honors presented by the Indiana FFA Association to individuals who have demonstrated outstanding service and support for agricultural education and FFA.
The Honorary State Degree recognizes educators, school administrators, business leaders, and community members whose commitment has positively impacted agricultural education programs and helped prepare students for successful futures through leadership development, career readiness, and personal growth.
As an agricultural educator and FFA advisor, Miss GIlley has dedicated time and effort to creating opportunities for students to succeed both inside and outside the classroom. Through instruction, Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) programs, Career and Leadership Development Events, Leadership Development Events, and community service activities, students have developed valuable technical skills, leadership abilities, and a passion for agriculture.
This prestigious recognition reflects years of dedication to students, the agricultural education program, and the local community.The Indiana FFA State Convention brings together thousands of FFA members, advisors, and supporters from across the state to celebrate student achievements, leadership, and excellence in agricultural education. Receiving the Honorary Indiana FFA State Degree during this event recognizes the lasting impact that Miss Gilley has made on students and the agricultural education profession.
During Gilley’s 12 years at Southmont she has coached and guided many FFA members to local, state, and national success. This includes coaching numerous teams to state championships in the areas of livestock skillathon, agricultural communications, and in leadership development events. Miss Gilley has also guided students to expand their leadership roles by serving as district officers, a regional director, and a state officer. Miss Gilley has a passion for proficiency applications where she has guided two students to national wins and has had a Indiana FFA State Star in Ag Placement during her tenure. She has also guided six student teachers during her time at Southmont to help better prepare them for their future career as agricultural educators, all of which chose to follow a career into the classroom! In addition to mentoring student teachers, Miss Gilley has also been a part of the MIBAT mentoring program for beginning agriculture teachers, a district representative on the Indiana FFA Board of Trustees, and a member of the Indiana FFA & 4-H Ag Judging Committee.
Through a continued commitment to agricultural education, Miss Gilley has helped students gain the knowledge, confidence, and leadership skills needed to become successful citizens and future leaders in agriculture and their communities. This honor serves as a testament to that dedication and the positive influence made on generations of FFA members.
