MACON, Ga. – Winners of the Veterinary Science Career Development Event (CDE) were recognized at the 95^th Georgia FFA State Convention held at the Macon Centreplex on April 27-29, 2023. 

In the senior division, McKenzie Souder of Denmark was the high scoring individual, followed by Max Burnham of Clarke Central and Kennedy Wood of Rutland placing second and third respectively. The senior team state winner was Denmark, followed by Rutland in second place and Lowndes County in third. 

The junior division high individual was Diya Raj of Denmark, followed by Ava Smith of Denmark in second place and Muskaan Patel of Denmark in third place. The junior team state winner was Denmark, with second place going to Hahira Middle and third place to Lowndes County.

CDE and LDE awards are granted to FFA members and teams who have exhibited premier leadership, personal growth, and career success in a variety of competitions. The Veterinary Science CDE will test students’ knowledge and skill in various aspects of the Veterinary Science industry. The team event includes identification of equipment, parasites and animal breeds, as well as a handling and restraining practicum, a clinical procedure practicum, and a written exam involving knowledge of the veterinary science field.

The Veterinary Science Career Development Event was sponsored by Georgia Veterinary Medical Association.

All teams received a plaque award. Additionally, the advisor of the state winning team received a $100 cash award and a certificate. 

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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