Officers

State President: Thomas Marshall

Hometown: Anderson, SC

Chapter: Pendleton FFA

SAE: I have been lucky enough to develop 2 active SAE’s in my FFA career. First off, my Poultry Placement SAE consists of my employment at Cedar Ridge Farm in Pendleton, SC. My job responsibilities include daily activities like feed refilling, egg collecting, and coop maintenance. Occasionally, I have opportunities to perform farm tasks such as brush clearing, grass mowing, structure maintenance, and sheep health inspections. Secondly, my agricultural education SAE at Pendleton Elementary School consists of myself constructing garden beds and a compost bin to revitalize the school’s student garden. After I created the infrastructure, I developed an interactive lesson plan for the students at PES around soil health and the importance of worms in fertile soil. 

Education: Senior at Pendleton High School, graduating in May.

Career Goal: I desire to be a high school agriculture educator and FFA advisor. As a teacher, I want to focus on the Environment and Natural Resources pathway, specializing in wildlife, forestry, and fisheries management.

Biography

I enrolled in my first agriculture education class at Riverside Middle School with very little agricultural background. Starting in seventh grade, I grew a passion for the subject and industry through Mrs. Gilson’s Introduction to Agriculture classes. I quickly became interested in the FFA as well, as the 2020-2021 Chapter Vice-President and 2021-2022 Chapter President. I competed in theTool-ID CDE and in the first-ever middle school Agricultural Mechanics CDE while at Riverside.

Throughout middle school, I also became passionate about the band program. I joined the Pendleton High School Marching Band in 2021, where I was exposed to new skills, leadership, and friends. In the next years I continued in band, winning three consecutive 2A state championships (2021,2022, & 2023), and serving on the group’s leadership team. In these years, I also became a member of the Pendleton FFA, taking Mr. Berry’s agriculture classes. In my freshman year, I was a member of the 2023 State and National Contest-winning WHEP team, placing first-overall individual in the national contest, held in Milford, Iowa.

As a sophomore, I continued my involvement in the FFA by competing in the FFA division of Envirothon and volunteering for the Pendleton Historic Foundation, a partner of the Pendleton FFA chapter.

In August of 2024, I was accepted to be a member of the 2024 National FFA Band, and performed with the group during the 97th Annual National FFA Convention & Expo. During that year, I was also named the 2024-2025 Pendleton FFA Chapter President. In my year of service, I instated weekly officer meetings, and ensured Pendleton FFA had an impact on the local community through partnerships with Culver’s of Anderson and the Pendleton Historic Foundation. Throughout the year, I also competed in and won both the state Soils Evaluation and state Wildlife Management CDE’s.

In July 2025, I will be attending the South Carolina Commissioners School for Agriculture to further my agricultural knowledge, focusing on the Environment and Natural Resources pathway.

I am passionate about the FFA because of the growth and preparedness the organization can provide to our members. Through the FFA, I have grown from a reserved and shy middle school student into the individual I am today. Due to that, I desire to one day be an FFA advisor and agriculture educator in South Carolina, training the next generation of agriculturalists to keep our world running.

I look back on my experiences to find solutions for the future, and look forward to furthering the FFA’s mission across South Carolina and beyond, for all FFA members!

State Secretary: Kylie Tucker

Hometown: Lugoff, SC

Chapter: WTC Kershaw County FFA Chapter

SAE: Throughout my FFA journey, I have had many supervised agricultural experiences. My first SAE back in agriculture science class was goat care and production. In this project, I learned how to properly take care of my four goats. This introductory project led me to a new passion for livestock. This resulted in me becoming the barn manager for our educational farm at the Woolard Technology Center. Thus, beginning my second SAE. Over the summer before my senior year, I expanded on this passion and have since added two additional projects. One project in the area of Livestock Care Services, where I travel to farms in my community to assist with the health and management of their herd. Often, my responsibilities include running fecal float tests, deworming, creating a nutrition plan, clipping hooves, and educating my clients on proper care for their livestock, if they are beginners. My second newly added project is farm sitting. I take care of clients' animals while they are out of town, and my responsibilities include everything from feeding to administering medications. For my final SAE project, I was a teaching assistant for an agriculture class. In all of my SAE’s I have developed a wide range of skills that have led me to where I am today.

Education: Freshman at Clemson University, Majoring in Agricultural Education

Career Goal: After graduating, I plan to be a high school agriculture teacher and FFA advisor in the state of South Carolina, specifically focusing on the Plant and Animal science pathway. 

Biography

I began my FFA journey later than many peers due to only being able to start my first agricultural class in my sophomore year. Despite that, I had always been passionate about agriculture, particularly animal science, so joining the class was a natural fit. Just a few weeks into the program, I was invited to join our chapter’s Veterinary Science team. We dedicated months to rigorous preparation, and by December, we won the state competition, where I also placed as the second highest individual. That moment truly sparked my love for FFA.
By the following May, I was elected chapter Secretary, which pushed me to organize meetings and improve how I coordinate with others. During my junior year, I dove into the Horse Evaluation and Agricultural Education CDEs, sharpening my leadership, critical thinking, and communication skills while deepening my ag-science knowledge. Competing also helped me polish my public speaking and time-management abilities—skills I used every week, balancing classwork, practices, and officer duties. Through working closely with teammates, I built strong friendships and discovered how rewarding it was to mentor others. Helping classmates find their own FFA spark reminded me that leadership is about lifting each other up.

As a senior, I was honored to be elected chapter President, stepping into a role where I could share and elevate my skills for the benefit of others. That year, we celebrated several milestones: crowning our chapter’s first Mr. FFA, winning the Horse Evaluation CDE, and achieving the highest number of American Degree recipients in South Carolina for the 2023-2024 applicants, among numerous other accomplishments. This is when I decided that my FFA journey couldn’t stop here and began working towards running for state office.

Despite three years of growth, I often doubted myself. I didn’t come from what some called a “typical” agricultural background, nor did I start FFA as young as some members. But rather than hold me back, that sense of not fitting in fueled my determination. It taught me that FFA doesn’t require a particular origin story; it welcomes anyone with curiosity and drive.

Now, as the SC State Secretary for the 2025–2026 term, I am dedicated to showing fellow members that they belong, no matter their background or when they begin, and I couldn’t be more excited to take on that responsibility with my team. I can’t wait to meet so many passionate students across South Carolina and hear their stories firsthand. With every conversation and every event, I hope to spark confidence in someone who’s unsure, in turn, giving back to the organization that gave so much to me.

State Vice President: Kaitlyn Patterson

Hometown: Seneca, SC

Chapter: Seneca FFA Chapter

SAE: My Supervised Agriculture Experience (SAE) is focused on agricultural communications with the Foothills Agriculture Resource and Marketing Center (F.A.R.M. Center), where I use social media to promote and support local agriculture. I create promotional materials such as flyers and graphics to advertise farmers markets and workshops, help develop new community events that connect farmers with consumers, and share the stories of local farmers through photos, videos, and written posts. I also manage social media platforms to keep the community informed about market days and agricultural news while building support for local producers

Education: Freshman at Clemson University majoring in Agriculture Education.

Career Goal: After college, I plan to become an agriculture teacher in the state of South Carolina to continue to promote agriculture education through agriculture classes and the National FFA Organization.

Biography

My FFA journey started as a sophomore in high school in Mr. McDonald’s Ag Science and Technology class. At first, I was hesitant to get involved because I knew I was not a traditional agriculture student. I did not grow up on a farm, nor did I have much background knowledge about agriculture. However, when I finally gave the class a chance and became active in FFA, I began to fall in love with everything about my ag program.

I was encouraged by Mr. McDonald and Miss Swygert to join the Upper Creed Speaking LDE, which was far outside my comfort zone as a shy, reserved high schooler. Through their coaching, I was able to conquer my fear and participate in the Creed contest at both the region and state levels. Their encouragement helped transform me from the shy student I once was into someone who is confident and passionate.

As my high school career continued, I took more classes with both Mr. McDonald and Miss Swygert, and I began to fall in love with agricultural education. I saw firsthand the impact it had on my life through the independence and confidence it helped me develop, and I watched so many other students in my chapter experience the same growth. Whether it was in class, where they found a unit that excited them, in FFA, where they discovered a competition they loved, or in an SAE, where they found an internship they thrived in, I saw agriculture education change lives. This is when I began to find a passion for agricultural education and realized it was my calling for my future career.

Through my high school experience with FFA, I found a group of people who became some of my closest friends. I found mentors through my SAEs and my advisors, who helped me conquer challenges I never thought imaginable for myself. I may not have come from an agriculture background, but through agricultural education and the National FFA Organization, I have found a home all over the state and nation. I hope to use my story to inspire others that no matter their background, they are not limited and can pursue anything they put their mind to. Throughout this year, I hope to help each member I encounter spark their truest passions and become the best version of themselves.

State Vice President: Kayci Wilkerson

Hometown: Hickory Grove, SC 

Chapter: York FFA 

SAE: In 2020 I wanted to try something new for my SAE. When deciding what I wanted my SAE to involve, I tried to think outside of the box and do something I had never done before. Aside from trying something new, I wanted to pick something that no one in my family had ever done because I wanted to truly learn something new on my own. I wanted to have a unique SAE while in the FFA. Therefore, I decided to start my own beekeeping business.

I first purchased the necessary items such as; the suit, boxes, frames, the smoker and lastly 2 hives to get started. I also set everything up with the hopes of catching an additional hive, one that I would catch from the wild. At first things were going great and I was getting the hang of feeding them sugarwater, and checking the hives daily. Over this period of time, I learned that I needed a lot of patience because it would take about two years before I ever saw the first bit of honey. I stayed dedicated to my goal and always looked forward to seeing my first ever batch of honey.

However, during the Winter time, I was met with some difficulties that were challenging. I lost some of the original hive due to the infestation of mites. Once I realized that mites had gotten into my hive, I had to reach out to a beekeeping specialist from my community. He was able to teach me about the mites and how to treat them. I then worked to treat the mites and recover the hive.

The biggest success I have had so far is seeing the honey grow and the bees continuing to populate. This has been a great learning experience for me and has taught me the importance of hard work, patience, and determination. I look forward to continuing this business and expanding my hives. I am appreciative that the FFA has allowed me to try this new project to learn a new set of skills.

Education: Freshman at Clemson University, Majoring in Agricultural Education

Career Goal: After graduation, I plan to pursue a career in Agriculture Education and give back to young students by helping them understand the importance of this industry.  

Biography

Growing up in the small town of Hickory Grove, SC I had the opportunity to be around agriculture all my life. I am thankful to have been introduced to agriculture early on and see how important the agriculture industry is to our state. I have been introduced to several different avenues of agriculture from an early age. For example, we have raised beef cattle all my life and my family has operated a 4th generation logging business, which is still running today. I have personally gotten the chance to raise chickens and hogs on my own, and start my own beekeeping business.

However, my FFA journey began in middle school but really took off once I entered high school. I knew from an early age that I wanted to be involved in the FFA and make the most of every opportunity. From that moment, I have continued to step out of my comfort zone and try something new each year. I started competing in FFA events my Freshman year with the Creed Speaking LDE and I have competed in several other LDEs since then. I was nervous about my first ever competition being a public speaking event, but I fell in love with it and decided to do one every year since. My Sophomore year, I got the opportunity to be a Chapter Officer, try some CDEs and even competed in the Miss FFA Pageant. My FFA journey only expanded from there, each year I continued to try CDEs such as Meat Evaluation, Forestry and Milk Quality. I also attended the Washington Leadership Conference and went to summer camps. These memories will stick with me forever because I got to meet and build connections with people from all over with the same passion for agriculture as me.

Aside from the FFA, I was also an active member of the Student Council, played softball and volleyball, and was a leader in the FCA during high school. Participating in clubs other than just the FFA has allowed me to interact with so many people and I always cherish getting to meet new people. My time in the FFA has influenced me to become an agriculture education teacher and be able to give back to the next generation of students who are just like me, and have a growing passion to learn more.

I am honored to have the opportunity to serve South Carolina as a State Officer this year and look forward to making connections with each one of you. During my year of service, I want to encourage every member to step out of their comfort zone, try something new, and help them find their passion for agriculture.

State Vice President: Brooklyn Hill

Hometown: Conway SC

Chapter: Conway FFA

SAE:  I have had the wonderful opportunity to have multiple different SAE’s. Choosing SAE projects in Outdoor Recreation, Agriscience Research, Agricultural Education, and Agricultural Communication has allowed me many diverse learning experiences. In my Outdoor Recreation SAE, I work on a local fishing pier and aid community members with fishing equipment, safety guidelines, and casting techniques. In my Agriscience SAE, I conducted research experiments on the light effectiveness of plants, different greenhouse varieties, and what qualities and characteristics draw my community to certain plants. In my Agricultural Education SAE, I work next to my advisor as a teacher assistant in her agriscience class where I spread agricultural awareness to students face to face. I also volunteer at local schools and educational centers to spread agricultural values to our younger generations by giving agricultural lessons to students. Similarly in my Agricultural Communications SAE, I have the opportunity to spread agricultural awareness through my chapter's social media as well as my own. I also design my school’s monthly toilet talks that revolve around agrarian knowledge. My SAE’s have allowed me to explore different agricultural pathways that have helped fuel my passion for the agricultural industry.

Education:  Freshman at Clemson University, majoring in Agricultural Education

Career Goal: After receiving a degree in Agricultural Education I plan to pursue a job as an Agricultural Educator in the state of South Carolina.

Biography:

My FFA career began my freshman year of high school when I stepped into my first agricultural classroom. It was that very classroom that helped me discover my love for agriculture and shape my journey through the FFA. As I reflect on my time in the FFA I am met with the memories of stepping outside of my comfort zone, forging life long connections, and the many opportunities I have been able to embrace.

I will never forget the moment my sophomore year of high school when I realized I wanted to pursue a career in Agricultural Education. I had never once in my life ever thought I would become a teacher, however after competing in my first ever public speaking LDE and giving my first ever agricultural lesson to elementary school students during Baby Animal Day I knew I had found my purpose. I started coaching CDE teams, sharing my stories/advice, and encouraging others to find their passion for agriculture and the FFA. This has all continued to fuel my passion for Agricultural Education and has shown me that Agricultural Education isn’t just a subject; it’s the heart of our communities, the foundation of innovation, and the key to our future agricultural industries. If it wasn’t for the FFA jacket I never would’ve found my passion and my purpose for the agricultural industry. The FFA jacket has truly helped me foster a sense of community and has allowed me to understand that I will always have a family behind me supporting me in all of my future endeavors and I am so incredibly thrilled to help other students find their love through the FFA corduroy jacket.

As I embark on my year of service to the South Carolina FFA   Association, I am eager to make a positive impact, inspired by the incredible people in my life such as my advisors, best friends, and family who have guided me throughout my journey in the blue jacket. I cannot wait to inspire students and build their premier leadership, personal growth, and career success. I am so excited to give it all back to the organization that has given me so much.

State Vice President: Anabelle Creech

Hometown: Pelion, SC 

Chapter: Pelion FFA 

SAE: My SAE is in Equine Placement, I am an assistant trainer and barn worker at Country Springs Equestrian Center. My major responsibilities include teaching young riders equine showmanship, helping maintain the barn and equine health, and assisting with camps and programs. This SAE allows me to influence the younger generation of equestrians and improve their horsemanship skills while instilling qualities that make me a better person. Qualities like patience, determination, diligence, and passion that I was all able to learn from the saddle and apply in everyday life. I teach a range of students, from beginners to intermediates, about proper grooming and care, tacking, riding position, as well as training techniques. We also travel to horse shows where I have the opportunity to see the hard work they put into improving themselves and their horses. Win or lose seeing them compete brings me joy, seeing the dedication, sportsmanship, and respect that the kids had for their horses, teammates, and competitors was even more meaningful than seeing them win the class. I love being able to give back to the industry that has given me so much and has influenced my life in many ways. In addition to teaching lessons, I also work at the barn. I am responsible for feeding, giving medications, “tuning” up lesson horses, cleaning stalls, turning horses out and in, and rotating the herd between pastures.

Education: Freshman at Clemson University, majoring in Animal and Vet Science.

Career Goal: After graduation, I plan to pursue a career in Animal Science and pursue a career as an animal nutritionist.

Biography

I grew up in a very small rural town where agriculture is the main sector of our community. However, I did not come from an agricultural background. Growing up I rode and showed horses and became involved in our local county and state 4H programs which sparked my initial interest in the agricultural industry. Although it wasn’t until I began high school and got involved in FFA that I really found my place in the industry that I now call a home.

My Freshman year of high school I joined the Pelion FFA Chapter. At first I planned to just be an active member, but soon enough I was competing in the Greenhand Creed Speaking Contest and turning in my first officer application. The two events that sparked my passion for this organization. That first year I was wildly uncomfortable and nervous, but I quickly learned there is no growth found in the comfort zone and that I always had someone behind me believing in and supporting me. In the following years I continued to step outside of my comfort zone, competing in various CDEs and LDEs, like Extemporaneous Public Speaking, Soil Evaluation, and Poultry Evaluation. Through competing in these contests I was able to learn about our diverse industry but also grow as a person through the lessons learned along the way. Throughout my time in the FFA I also participated in Legislative day, FFA Day at the Fair, Miss FFA, Discussion Meets, and so many other events that allowed me to grow while also getting to meet new people from around our state that had the same passion that I did. Reflecting on my journey through FFA and my time serving as a chapter officer I realized that one of my favorite parts was being able to see the change and growth in those around me. Seeing change in my chapter with new members as they embark on their FFA career and step out of their comfort zones brought so much joy to my own FFA story knowing I had a hand in theirs.

I am honored and excited to be able to serve South Carolina FFA as this years Region 4 Vice President . Throughout this year I want to reach out and connect with members to help them find their home in this organization and help them have the confidence to step outside of their comfort zone in order to grow. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve this organization that has done so much for me.