Green named FFA national award finalist

Published 4:04 pm Monday, August 13, 2018

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Thorsby High School alum Rianna Green has been named a finalist for the National FFA Proficiency Award in the field of agricultural sales-placement.

She is one of four finalists that will compete for the award during the 91st National FFA Convention & Expo Oct. 24-27 in Indianapolis.

“It’s pretty overwhelming,” Green said. “I feel like I’m in a dream, and I’ve pinched myself a couple of times just to make sure that it’s real.”

According to a FFA press release, the proficiency awards recognize outstanding student achievement in agribusiness.

The finalists gained recognition for the award through the establishment of a new business, working for an existing company or gaining hands-on career experience.

Green’s parents own and operate Garrison Farm & Home Center in Thorsby, which gave her the perfect outlet to gain the necessary experience.

Rianna Green of Thorsby is a finalist for the National FFA Proficiency Award in the field of agricultural sales-placement. She will compete for the award at the National FFA Convention & Expo in October. (Contributed photo)

“I’ve literally grown up here,” Green said. “This has helped me out tremendously.”

Agriculture has been such a major part of her life and something she will continue as she pursues a degree in agricultural business.

Reaching the finals is a special moment, but winning the award is something that Green is aiming for.

The four finalists will each receive $500 and a plaque to commemorate the honor. The national winner will receive an additional $500.

The tradition is for the award to be announced on stage in front of roughly 30,000 people. Green is looking forward to the opportunity of standing on stage with her adviser, Brian Lucas, as the results are called out.

“I feel like I have a chance at this,” Green said. “I definitely have to keep my faith and confidence and not let my nerves get to me. There’s going to be times when I feel like I’m down and out, but I know that I have people back home that are going to be behind me and pushing me.”