by LANDEN ATKINS, Public Relations Chair
& TRACE FOREMAN, Davenport FFA Advisor
Cultivating a Legacy
The Davenport Sr. FFA Chapter is charging into its fifth year as a chartered chapter, and they’re determined to make it their biggest and most impactful year yet!
From competitions to community projects, Davenport members are proving that even a young chapter can cultivate a powerful legacy.
Growing Success in the Show Ring
Last year at the Polk County Youth Fair, Davenport FFA made waves:
- Earned two tri-color awards in horticulture
- Won Grand Champion Brangus Bull
- Won Reserve Supreme Overall Beef Breeding Bull
This year, they’re preparing to top those results with an impressive 100+ fair entries already lined up—and counting!
Leaders In the Making
Davenport FFA members are sharpening their skills with practice for over 12 Career and Leadership Development Events—and more to come.
They’ve also celebrated outstanding individual recognition:
- Soraya Lopidas was named a finalist for the Polk County Public Schools CTAE Student of the Year in Agriculture.
Premier Recognition
In just a few short years, Davenport FFA has earned Florida FFA Premier Chapter status and even became a finalist for the Young Alumni Member of the Year Award. Their momentum is undeniable.
Cultivating Community
This year, Davenport FFA is expanding their outreach with exciting new initiatives:
- A community garden pantry to give back to families in need
- A city beautification project in partnership with the City of Davenport
These projects show how agriculture can make a difference not only in classrooms, but in entire communities.
Innovation in Floriculture
One of the most exciting developments at Davenport High is the launch of a brand-new floriculture and floral design program—the first of its kind in Polk County!
Through this program, members will:
- Grow and harvest cut floral stems
- Create stunning floral bouquets and arrangements
- Gain real-world experience managing a floral/nursery shop, “Bronco Buds and Blooms”
This hands-on learning will double as an unpaid placement SAE, preparing students for careers in horticulture, business, and design.
Why We’re Excited
In just five years, Davenport FFA has become a shining example of what it means to cultivate leaders, success, and service. They’re not just growing plants and raising animals—they’re growing a legacy that will last for generations.
👉 For next month’s Cultivating Connections, we will check in with Tenoroc FFA and Lake Wales Sr. FFA.