State FFA elects officers during annual conference

California FFA has elected a new president.

Dipak Kumar of Tulare was named state president during the 86th annual California State FFA Leadership Conference, which concluded last week. Kumar, who attends Tulare Western High School, will replace outgoing president Riley Nilsen.

More than 5,000 FFA members from throughout the state attended the four-day event in Fresno.

The 2014-15 state FFA officer team includes: Vice President Haley Warner of Altaville, who attends Bret Harte High School in Angels Camp; Secretary Sierra Bryant of Templeton High School, Templeton; Treasurer Roman Waskiewicz of Pleasant Grove High School, Elk Grove; Reporter Ellen Van Noy of Nevada Union High School, Grass Valley; and Sentinel Luis Sanchez of Gonzales High School, Gonzales.

The California FFA Association, founded in 1928, helps California high school students develop leadership, personal growth and career skills through vocational agricultural education. The state conference annually brings together students and educators from more than 300 high schools to participate in sessions featuring speakers for motivational leadership and a career show and expo that provide networking opportunities and workshops.

Nearly 2,800 FFA members competed in career development and field day events that featured more than 30 different contests created and administered by Fresno State students, faculty and volunteers. The contests included fruit tree judging, livestock judging, dairy products, farm power, and machinery and small engines.

For full conference proceedings and contest winners, visit www.calaged.org/events/state-convention-home.