I've lost count of the number of Arkansas FFA conventions I've had the opportunity to capture, but each year it keeps getting sweeter.


If you know me, you know the FFA organization holds a special place in my heart. I joined the South Side Bee Branch FFA Chapter in ninth grade, setting the trajectory for the rest of my life. FFA led me to my full-time career, gave me my best friends, and helped me develop skills I will use for the rest of my life. Ten years ago, I was elected as the Arkansas FFA Northwest District Vice President, and every year since then, I've found an excuse to come back.


This year, Caleigh Watlington (one of my best friends, former FFA teammate, and now coworker at Farm Credit) teamed up again to take stage photos during the sessions.


I love capturing students' excitement when their hard work pays off, the passion behind state officer retiring addresses, and the joy in the eyes of members experiencing convention for the first time.


While it's hard to narrow it down, I wanted to share a few of my favorite pictures from the 96th Arkansas FFA Convention & Expo to help remember the three days I spent in Hot Springs. Enjoy!