As 5,000 people watched from their seats Sunday, San Benito High
School’s Future Farmers of America Adviser Kelly Bianchi stood on
the stage at Selland Arena in Fresno and was honored as the top FFA
adviser in the state.
Hollister – As 5,000 people watched from their seats Sunday, San Benito High School’s Future Farmers of America Adviser Kelly Bianchi stood on the stage at Selland Arena in Fresno and was honored as the top FFA adviser in the state.
“I’m still in shock. It’s a great honor,” said Bianchi, who was chosen above five other candidates, including the teacher who advised her when she was a student teacher, and named 2005’s outstanding FFA advisor for the state.
Only the fifth woman in 27 years to receive the honor, Bianchi was first named county outstanding adviser and then regional, working her way up to become the top honoree for the state.
“It is an accomplishment that only a handful of people will ever attain. And it’s student recognition,” said Greg Beard, FFA South Coast Region Supervisor stationed at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo.
Students at SBHS nominated Bianchi for the award. And at each level, student FFA leaders evaluated candidates and chose the winners.
“It is based on a commitment to making a difference in the lives of young people,” Beard said.
Bianchi’s interest in agriculture began with her involvement with FFA and 4-H in high school, and it continued through her college years at Modesto Junior College, Fresno State University and Cal Poly Luis Obispo, where she received a masters degree in agricultural education.
“I have a passion for agriculture,” Bianchi said.
She has been teaching at SBHS for two years. She teaches a range of agricultural classes, including introduction to agriculture and agricultural mechanics, to about 85 students.
“Kelly is just wonderful,” Principal Deborah Padilla said. “Being recognized is an amazing achievement. She is rebuilding the program and highly dedicated.”
In addition to the honor of being named the outstanding advisor for the state, Bianchi received a plaque and will go on an all-expense paid trip to Kentucky for an FFA convention and then to Washington D.C. for sightseeing.
