MACON, Ga. – Winners of the Nursery Operations Proficiency were recognized at the 95^th Georgia FFA State Convention held at the Macon Centreplex on April 27-29, 2023. 

Cade Thomas of Madison County placed first in the proficiency competition. Placing second was Emily Thompson of CA Gray Jr. High, and Thomas Watkins of Johnson County received third place. 

Proficiency awards are granted to FFA members who have excelled in their Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE). Students who participate in the Nursery Operations Proficiency are provided with job-entry experiences in plant production and sales.

The Nursery Operation Proficiency was sponsored at the state level by Atlas Manufacturing, Inc..

All proficiency winners received a plaque and a cash award. State winners receive $100, as well as $500 travel money to attend the National FFA Convention. Additionally, the advisor of the state winner also received $100 cash. Second place winners received $50, and third place winners received $25. 

The National FFA Organization, formerly known as the Future Farmers of America, changed its name in 1988 to reflect the growth and diversity of agriculture. There are nearly 860,000 FFA members nationwide. The Georgia Association has more than 80,000 members, making it the third largest Association in the nation. The FFA makes a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success, through agricultural education. 

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