HARRISBURG — In a region where agriculture shapes daily life as much as tradition, students from Mifflin and Juniata counties took center stage at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg this winter, earning one of the highest honors in the state FFA.

Members from Big Valley Juniata and East Juniata FFA chapters walked across the New Holland Arena stage to receive the Keystone FFA Degree, a recognition that reflects years of work both in the classroom and far beyond it.

What the Keystone Degree represents

The Keystone Degree is the fourth-highest honor an FFA member can earn in Pennsylvania, and the requirements are intentionally rigorous. Students must be active members for at least two years, complete a minimum of two agricultural education courses, and maintain a Supervised Agricultural Experience project that demonstrates growth, responsibility and initiative. They must also participate in at least 10 chapter activities and five events above the chapter level, complete 25 hours of community service and show evidence of leadership skills.

Nicolette Cusate, Big Valley FFA advisor and agricultural sciences teacher at the Mifflin County Academy of Science and Technology in Lewistown, emphasized the significance of the award. “Among the highest honors presented were the Keystone Degrees, the most prestigious degree a member can earn at the state level, recognizing years of commitment to Supervised Agricultural Experiences, leadership involvement, and service to their communities,” she said.

For the FFA chapters serving Mifflin and Juniata counties, the Keystone Degree is more than a credential. It is a reflection of the region’s deep agricultural roots and the commitment of students who grow up surrounded by farms, small businesses, and community traditions that value hard work. This year’s recipients represent a cross-section of those values, each bringing a unique story to the stage.

Big Valley FFA honorees

Big Valley FFA, serving students in the Mifflin County area, recognized five members for earning the Keystone Degree.

Lily Breon completed her Supervised Agricultural Experience through her work at Milroy OIP. Her favorite FFA activities include the chapter’s rabies clinic with Kish Vet and veterinary science competitions. She plans to attend Juniata College to study pre-veterinary medicine and compete in golf.

Sean Gutshall earned his degree through his hay-making enterprise. His favorite event is the Youth Fair, and he plans to work at Pheasant Valley Recycling before applying to the police academy with the goal of becoming a game warden.

Phoebe Keiser completed her SAE at Keiser’s Butcher Shop, gaining hands-on experience in a family-run agricultural business. She enjoys attending chapter meetings and is considering both college and workplace opportunities.

Marlee Basom earned her degree through her work at a family-owned restaurant. She says overnight trips were her favorite part of FFA, especially meeting new people and learning new skills. She is currently employed at Kish Bank.

Kelsey Morrison completed a wide range of livestock projects, including market beef, dairy feeders, goats, lambs, and breeding rabbits. Her favorite event is the third-grade farm tours, where she helps introduce younger students to agriculture. She is a graduate of YTI’s Veterinary Technician program and now works in both small and large animal practices.

Cusate noted the long-term commitment required to reach this milestone. “Receiving the Keystone FFA Degree is three years in the making for most Big Valley FFA members who have to meet a specific set of requirements,” she said. “These include making or productively investing at least $1,000 toward their supervised agricultural experience projects that members complete outside of school, serving 25 community service hours, and participating in many chapter and above-chapter FFA events. This award is a testament to the passion, dedication, and leadership of these young individuals who earn it.”

Juniata FFA

recipients

In Juniata County, the Juniata FFA chapter recognized a strong group of Keystone Degree recipients. This year’s honorees included Olivia Rhea, Cassi Parson, Conrad Long, Blaine Imes, Conner Schlegel, Morgan Imes and Kalynn Brown. Each student completed the extensive requirements through a combination of agricultural coursework, SAE projects, leadership roles, and community service.

East Juniata’s Keystone Degree honoree

East Juniata FFA, also serving students in Juniata County, was represented by Keystone Degree recipient Emily Goodling. Her recognition highlights the chapter’s ongoing commitment to developing young leaders who are prepared to contribute to the agricultural industry.

A milestone for Mifflin and Juniata counties

Across Mifflin and Juniata counties, the Keystone Degree serves as a testament to the dedication of students who balance schoolwork, jobs, agricultural projects, and leadership responsibilities. It also reflects the support of families, advisors, and community partners who help guide students through the demanding process. For many recipients, the degree marks the beginning of future careers in agriculture, veterinary medicine, environmental science, business, and public service.

The Mid-Winter Convention remains one of the most meaningful events of the year for Pennsylvania FFA, bringing together students from across the Commonwealth to celebrate achievement and reaffirm the organization’s mission. For the local recipients, the ceremony in Harrisburg was both a celebration of past accomplishments and a reminder of the opportunities ahead.

As these students return to their chapters, classrooms, and communities, the Keystone Degree stands as a symbol of their hard work and their potential. Whether they continue in agriculture or pursue other fields, the skills they have developed–leadership, responsibility, service, and a strong work ethic — will continue to shape their futures.