Officers

State President: Jabe Holtzclaw

Hometown: Anderson, SC

Chapter: Crescent FFA

SAE:
My Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) started my 9th grade year when I started to take wildlife management very seriously. What began as just a simple pile of corn with a camera turned into countless hours of preparation, research, and hard work. As I went on I started working with my sister’s German Short-haired Pointer and taught her to place and retrieve on command.

During the summer leading into my sophomore year I was offered a job helping my brother with his landscaping business. It was there, at Blades Down, that I found a love and passion for turfgrass management. It provided me with the strength, knowledge, and foundation of hard work that I still carry with me to this day. Since that summer I found a job upkeeping a 60 acre farm in Elberton, GA. However, I am now back at Blades Down and hold a valuable position there. My SAE taught me the true meaning of hard work and showing up when it matters. Even if that means putting aside what’s best for yourself to better help those around you. I believe that it instilled the heart of service that I carry today.

Current Education:
Graduate of Crescent High School

Career Goal:
Spanish missions

Biography:
Growing up, I was blessed to be born into a family deeply rooted in South Carolina agriculture. Until I was about five years old, my family owned a small farm with a few crossbred cattle, goats, and chickens. My father also served as a South Carolina Young Farmers Association State Vice President. When we eventually sold the farm, I felt as though agriculture had been ripped away from me.

Thankfully, I found it again in a classroom.

My FFA journey began during my freshman year of high school. I quickly became involved in my chapter, but I had no interest in serving as an officer or pursuing opportunities beyond the chapter level. Fortunately, during my sophomore year, my advisor encouraged me to compete in the Mr. FFA pageant. To my surprise, I was named a Top Ten finalist despite having very little involvement outside my chapter. That experience gave me the confidence to run for chapter office and challenged me to become more involved at the state level through livestock evaluation and showing cattle.

Each of those opportunities taught me that hard work truly pays off. More importantly, they showed me that growth begins when you're willing to step outside your comfort zone. Those experiences inspired me to run for state office, and they taught me that every member can find a place in the FFA. No matter where someone starts, there is an opportunity for them to grow, lead, and make a lasting impact.

State Secretary: Savannah Griffin

Hometown: Piedmont, SC

Chapter: South Carolina Governor’s School for Agriculture FFA

SAE:
Throughout my FFA journey, my Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) has grown alongside my passion for the agricultural industry. What began as a bird dog management project eventually developed into a more diverse and meaningful experience that allowed me to expand my knowledge of animal care and wildlife management. My original project focused on training and caring for my German Shorthair Pointer, Lady. Through this experience, I learned the importance of proper nutrition, health management, conditioning, and consistent training while preparing her for AKC Hunt Tests, where she has earned her Junior Hunter title. As my interests continued to grow, I expanded my SAE by adding homing pigeons to my project. I cared for the birds daily by feeding them, maintaining their loft, monitoring their health, and training them to return home. These pigeons play an important role in my bird dog training program by providing realistic field training opportunities while allowing me to gain additional experience in animal husbandry and management. Growing my SAE has allowed me to develop a wide range of technical and leadership skills, including record keeping, time management, problem-solving, and responsibility. Most importantly, it has strengthened my passion for animal genetics and breeding, helping me prepare for a career in the agricultural industry.

Education:
Freshman at Clemson University, Majoring in Agricultural Education Leadership

Career Goal:
After college, I plan to pursue a career advocating for agriculture on a larger scale by working with organizations such as the Farm Bureau or the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). My goal is to serve as a voice for farmers, agricultural producers, and rural communities.

Biography:
My agricultural journey began in an unexpected way. I didn't grow up in an agricultural family, in fact, I only enrolled in a basic agriculture class at the Anderson Career and Technology Center because I loved animals. Little did I know, that one decision would completely change my life. Through the guidance of Mr. Harris, I discovered not only a passion for agriculture but also a home in the National FFA Organization.

As a sophomore, I took a leap of faith and applied to the South Carolina Governor's School for Agriculture. After being accepted, I packed up all my stuff and moved an hour and a half away from home, where my perspective on agriculture completely changed. My very first agriculture class was with Mrs. Rhodes, and she opened my eyes to a side of the industry I had never experienced before. Through horticulture and greenhouse management, she showed me that agriculture extended far beyond livestock. She helped me understand the incredible size and diversity of the agricultural industry. That class transformed the way I viewed agriculture and helped me discover a passion for an industry much bigger than I ever imagined.

I immersed myself in every opportunity I could find. I competed in Career Development Events, earning state and national titles in the Wildlife Habitat Education Program (WHEP), showed goats and cattle, ran my dog in field trials, served as Miss South Carolina FFA, earned my State FFA Degree, and was honored as my chapter's Outstanding Junior before serving as Chapter President. Through summer camp, State Convention, and the Washington Leadership Conference, my passion for serving others only continued to grow.

During my senior year, our Wildlife team earned another state championship, and with the encouragement of my mentor, Mr. Morton, I stepped outside my comfort zone by competing in Extemporaneous Public Speaking. That journey ultimately led me to filling out my State Officer application. A couple months later, I have been blessed with the opportunity to serve members across our state.

While these accomplishments are meaningful, they are not what define my journey. I would not be where I am today without the members of my FFA chapter, whose encouragement, friendship, and belief in me inspired me to become the leader I am today. Every agriculture teacher, chapter officer, teammate, and friend who invested in me helped shape my path. Serving as a State Officer has given me a servant's heart and reminded me that leadership is about lifting others up. Everything I have accomplished is a reflection of the people who believed in me before I believed in myself, and I am forever grateful for the opportunity to give back to the organization and industry that gave me so much.

State Vice President: Brooklyn Iseli

Hometown: Walhalla, SC

Chapter: Walhalla FFA Chapter

SAE:
My Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) focuses on Dairy Cattle Production. My family and I have been raising dairy cattle my entire life, but I took more responsibility in 2021. That same year, my Jersey calf, Elleanor, had her first calf and began milking. This is when I became involved in the South Carolina 4-H Dairy Heifer Project. This project provides youth with an opportunity to raise and exhibit a heifer for two years. Once the heifer is bred, she is sold and the money goes back to the 4-H member. This project has given me valuable experiences in responsibility, animal care and agricultural business.

My mom and I have also hosted field trips on our farm for elementary age students. Giving them an opportunity to learn more about the dairy industry, where their food comes from and the hard work behind it all. Recently I’ve taken a step further, expanding my responsibilities by assisting in the Artificial Insemination (AI) and genetic selection on our farm. By participating in an Artificial Insemination course through Clemson University, I am better able to understand safety protocols, genetic selection and receive better results with my own cattle.

Education:
Freshmen in the Bridge to Clemson program

Career Goal:
After graduation, I plan to pursue a career as an Agriculture Educator in the state of South Carolina.

Biography:
I am blessed to have grown up on my grandparents’ dairy farm, where I have learned perseverance, hard work and integrity. In 2018, I watched the trailer carrying my family’s cattle drive away as my grandparents made the difficult decision to retire. Even after letting go of the life they had built, they never let go of their passion for the agriculture industry. Their example has shaped my love for agriculture and developing a passion through hands-on learning.

Before joining FFA, I was involved in county and state 4-H programs where I’ve shown poultry, dogs and dairy cattle. I’ve also participated in the Garden project, Junior Naturalist, completed sewing projects and even raised and sold my own produce. Through these experiences I realized that agriculture is much more than just an industry.

I began my journey in agricultural education and FFA later than my peers. As a sophomore in high school, I volunteered to help coach a Dairy Cattle Evaluation Career Development Event (CDE) team. This was far outside of my comfort zone as I was not yet an active member and did not know anybody else on the team. However, that experience introduced me to something I had been missing - a community where my love for agriculture and people could come together. I fell in love with the organization and involved myself in everything I could. I competed in numerous CDE’s and Discussion Meets, and participated in FFA Day at the State Fair and so much more. This allowed me to grow and make connections across the state.

I have seen first hand how FFA has grown a shy and self conscious young girl into a confident, passionate and driven advocate.

I am honored and excited to serve South Carolina FFA this year. I look forward to building meaningful connections with each one of you. I am committed to sharing my love for agriculture, advocacy and service with a compassionate heart.

State Vice President: Thomas Robinson

Hometown: Union, SC 

Chapter: Union County FFA 

SAE:
I have had tremendous growth in my SAE during my time in high school and in FFA. My SAE is in Agricultural education by serving as teacher’s assistant with my Ag teacher. I am learning about the world of education, what the job of an Ag teacher entails, and practicing critical skills. This SAE is something that has truly impacted me as a person and leader. It has allowed me to do so much more for my school community and grow as a leader. When searching for the right SAE for me and thinking about all of the things that I loved in FFA and in Agriculture, I kept searching for the one thing that really defined me in Agriculture, and every time I kept coming back to education. I was raised in a household of education. Both of my parents are high school teachers. So, I have always seen the impact that education can have on people, but I never really wanted to be a teacher. But I have always been there helping my Ag teachers, so I decided to pursue it further through the work-based learning program at my high school and now am serving in the teacher assistant position every day, and I am learning new things every day. During my SAE daily I help to prepare lessons and the assignments for the day and make sure everything runs smoothly. Then during the class, since I have already taken the class, I am able to help and assist students with assignments and give them guidance as students in the Union County Ag department. The other part of my SAE is the FFA side of Agricultural education and the activities that I perform helping the FFA Chapter as well. Since the beginning, I have been helping to plan out our FFA events and schedule and making sure everything is executed smoothly. I have also been learning about the many different applications and forms that have to be filled out, such as the National chapter application, in addition to helping our members fill out their state degree applications and be ready when the time comes to submit. My SAE has allowed me to grow tremendously in Agriculture and in FFA and to grow as a person.

Education:
Freshman at the University of South Carolina, Majoring in Broadcast Journalism

Career Goal:
After receiving my degree I plan to pursue a career in Sports Broadcasting.

Biography:
My Journey in FFA began with my 1st Agricultural Education class in 2nd semester my 9th grade year. I signed up for it because I thought it was an opportunity to step outside of my comfort zone and to learn new skills and have new experiences, and I was very right. From the moment I stepped into Mrs. Dill's class, my life would change forever and I would begin my FFA journey. That Spring I competed in Public Speaking LDES and ran for chapter office. But those were not the moments that made me stick with FFA for good. It was being able to attend the 96th FFA convention that made me realize FFA was for me.

My Sophomore year brought all kinds of new challenges: serving as chapter vice president, competing in new types of CDE’s, and trying to stay involved in the community and plan events. I was really beginning to find my passion in my SAE, found a passion for Agricultural education, and found ways to expand that into my SAE my sophomore year. Then I was once again elected as chapter Vice President.

Stepping into Junior year was a pivotal point. It is when I decided that I wanted to begin to take a bigger step in my FFA journey, going beyond just serving my chapter, wanting to take a bigger step onto the state level. That year was the 1st year that my chapter ever competed in Mr. FFA and being able to finish in the top 10 and represent my chapter gave me giant pride. That spring I was also elected as my chapter's president for the upcoming year and that summer was able to serve on the 2025 State Nominating Committee. I found that passion of serving the State and making a big impact.

My Senior year culminated my four years in FFA. From serving as president to being able to compete and winning Mr. FFA 2026 allowed me to now represent the state, and knowing that I could be one of the state’s best is what inspired me to run for state office. Having the opportunity to serve South Carolina FFA is the honor of a lifetime. I look forward to the year ahead and can’t wait to get to know members on a personal level and promote agriculture in South Carolina.

State Vice President: Lily Mishoe

Hometown: Loris, SC

Chapter: Loris FFA

SAE:
My Supervised Agricultural Experience entails creating different assignments and lessons while targeting agricultural topics. Throughout my SAE, I have been fortunate enough to teach the lessons that I create. I have taught them in my high school's agriculture classes, and more recently, I was able to go to local elementary schools and teach them about agriculture through my lessons, as well as agricultural-based children's books. I have also attended many events, such as Baby Animal Day, where elementary-aged students can learn about agriculture.

I have an entrepreneurship side to my SAE as well. The digital worksheets and lesson plans I create are sold on Teachers Pay Teachers. This outlet has allowed me to collaborate with and see what other agricultural teachers are teaching in their classrooms.

Originally, my Supervised Agricultural Experience focused narrowly on curriculum development. I created comprehensive lesson plans and delivered instruction to students in my classroom setting. My role was primarily that of an educator. The main responsibility was to produce quality educational materials and facilitate effective learning experiences. However, as I refined my lesson plans and received positive feedback from both students and teachers, I recognized an opportunity to expand the scope and impact of my work. I decided to monetize and distribute my curriculum resources through Teachers Pay Teachers, a decision that fundamentally transformed my SAE by expanding responsibilities beyond creating and teaching lessons. I now manage the business aspects of my SAE, including marketing my products, maintaining customer relationships, responding to feedback, and continuously updating materials based on user reviews and best educational practices. This evolution demonstrates how I have grown my SAE and my skills over the last two years and I am confident that these skills will serve me well as I enter an Agricultural Education major and my very own classroom in a few years.

Education:
Freshman at Clemson University, Majoring in Agricultural Education.

Career Goal:
After I receive a Degree in Agricultural Education, I aspire to be a high school Agricultural Educator.

Biography:
Walking into my first agricultural class, I thought it would simply be another way to get involved. I quickly realized it was so much more. FFA became a place where I discovered my passions, challenged myself, built lifelong friendships, and grew into the leader I strive to be every day.

My journey has been filled with opportunities that pushed me outside of my comfort zone. Whether I was competing in Career Development Events, Leadership Development Events, such as; parliamentary procedure, Ag Ed, and Soils and Land Evaluation; participating in workshops, chapter activities, or participating in community service projects, every experience taught me something valuable. FFA showed me that leadership is not about being the loudest person in the room—it is about serving others, working as a team, and leaving every place better than you found it.

I have been surrounded by agriculture my whole life, but FFA gave me a deeper understanding and appreciation for the people, traditions, and industries that make it possible. Through the Environmental and Natural Resource pathway, as well as, The Horticulture Pathway I have experienced countless conversations with members, advisors, and agricultural professionals, I have learned that agriculture is built on hard work, resilience, and a commitment to serving others. Those same values are ones I will carry with me for the rest of life in and out of the agricultural industry.

One of the greatest blessings of my FFA journey has been the relationships I have built. Mrs. Hammonds and Mrs. Hall believed in me before I fully believed in myself. Fellow members and officers encouraged me through successes and setbacks, reminding me that growth doesn't happen overnight; it often comes from the moments that challenge us the most. Those relationships have become the foundation of my confidence and leadership.

Serving as the South Carolina FFA State Vice President has been the greatest honor of my journey. I have dreamed of this opportunity since I attended Greenhand Camp in 2023. When the time finally came to start working on my state officer application I felt every emotion in the book. I realized that serving South Carolina FFA as a state officer was my calling and I am so joyous that this dream has become a reality. This position has already opened up so many doors for me and I cannot wait to see what the rest of the year has in store.

Looking back, I realize that FFA has given me much more than awards or titles. It has given me purpose. It has taught me to lead with humility, serve with compassion, and face challenges with courage. It has helped me find my voice, my cornerstone, and has encouraged me to use it to make a positive difference in the lives of others.

As my FFA journey continues, I know the lessons I have learned will stay with me forever. The blue jacket represents more than an organization—it represents growth, service, leadership, and family. No matter where life takes me, I will always carry the values of FFA with pride. My journey is not defined by the destination but by every person I have met, every lesson I have learned, and every opportunity I have had to serve. For that, I will always be grateful.

State Vice President: Cale Peachey

Hometown: Williston, SC 

Chapter: Barnwell County Career Center FFA

SAE:
My SAE is in Beef Production Entrepreneurship through Peachey Farms, my family's purebred Black Angus cattle operation. My responsibilities include monitoring herd health, administering vaccinations and dewormers, tagging calves, assisting with breeding decisions, maintaining fences and pastures, and feeding livestock.
Through this SAE, I have developed a strong work ethic, a sense of responsibility, and valuable hands-on experience in the beef cattle industry. Every day on the farm teaches me something new about leadership, stewardship, and perseverance. Working alongside my family has shown me the importance of serving others, caring for our land and livestock, and producing a high-quality product that helps feed our communities.

This experience has strengthened my passion for agriculture and inspired me to pursue opportunities where I can advocate for farmers, educate others about the agricultural industry, and make a lasting impact on the future of agriculture.

Education:
I am a rising senior at Peachey Farms Classical Academy, where I am homeschooled, and I also attend the Barnwell County Career Center. My education combines rigorous academics with hands-on agricultural and career and technical education, allowing me to develop both classroom knowledge and practical skills that support my passion for agriculture, leadership, and service.

Career Goal:
Following graduation from college, I aspire to serve as an officer in the United States Air Force, where I can develop as a leader while serving my country. After my military service, I plan to dedicate my career to public service and agriculture, with the long-term goal of serving as the United States Secretary of Agriculture, advocating for America's farmers, strengthening rural communities, and helping shape the future of the agricultural industry.

Biography:
Growing up in Williston, South Carolina, agriculture has always been more than just an industry to me it has been a part of who I am. Being raised on my family's cattle farm, I learned the value of hard work, faith, and serving others from an early age. Some of my greatest lessons have not come from a classroom, but from long days working cattle, caring for our land, and learning from the people around me. Those experiences eventually led me to the Barnwell County Career Center FFA Chapter, where I found a place that helped me grow as a leader and discover my purpose.

When I first joined FFA, I quickly realized it was about much more than agriculture. FFA challenged me to step outside of my comfort zone, try new things, and become a better version of myself. Through competing in leadership and career development events, growing my Supervised Agricultural Experience in beef production, attending leadership conferences, and serving others, I have gained experiences that have shaped the person I am today. FFA has taught me that leadership is not defined by a title or position, but by the willingness to serve, encourage, and make a difference in the lives of others.

Outside of FFA, I enjoy spending time on my family's cattle farm, serving my community, and preparing for my future in military service. The experiences I have gained through agriculture, leadership, and service have taught me the importance of discipline, integrity, and putting others before myself. Whether I am working cattle, speaking with students, or wearing the blue jacket, I strive to make every person and every place better because I was there.

I am honored and humbled to serve the South Carolina FFA Association as this year's State Vice President. This year, my hope is to encourage every member to discover their purpose, take advantage of opportunities, and understand that their impact goes far beyond the blue jacket. FFA has given me countless opportunities, lifelong friendships, and a passion for serving others. I am grateful for the chance to give back to an organization that has given me so much, and I hope to help others find the same sense of belonging and purpose that I found in FFA.