Andy VonCanon and Allison Jennings Receive Honorary American FFA Degrees

Agriculture isn’t just an occupation; it’s a passion and a way of life. In recognition of their dedication to the agricultural field, Andy VonCanon and Allison Jennings have been granted the esteemed Honorary American FFA Degrees, the highest form of recognition within the National FFA Organization. This award stands as proof of their steadfast dedication to their local FFA chapters and state FFA association, underscoring their significant contributions to the field of agricultural education and earning them the respect they deserve.

Andy VonCanon holds the position of Western Region Agricultural Education Coordinator, where he lends his expertise to support agriculture teachers in multifarious ways, including curriculum development, event coordination, and program delivery. With an illustrious career spanning over two decades in agricultural education, which includes an impressive 11-year tenure as a teacher at Brevard High School, VonCanon’s dedication shines resplendently. He reflects on his journey, stating, “The FFA Organization has tirelessly strived to inspire individuals to pursue excellence and strive for success for nearly a century. Having once been a student and now an alumni member, I deeply cherish the opportunities I’ve encountered through my experiences within the FFA. I am humbled by this recognition and consider the Honorary American FFA Degree a truly significant pinnacle in my career in Agricultural Education.”

Allison Jennings, in her capacity as the Eastern Region Agriculture Education Coordinator, plays a pivotal role in supporting programs, planning, curriculum instruction, and professional development across the East Central, South Central, Southeast, and Northeast regions. Her odyssey in agricultural education commenced in 2005, and in 2017, she joined the NC FFA team, infusing her passion and unwavering dedication. In response to this distinguished honor, Jennings expresses her gratitude, affirming, “Earning the Honorary American Degree is a profound honor, and I am deeply appreciative of the nomination by our North Carolina FFA State Staff Team.”

Josh Bledsoe, NC State FFA Advisor, underscores the merit of both Andy and Allison, asserting, “Andy and Allison are eminently deserving of the Honorary American FFA Degree. These two dedicated professionals enjoy widespread respect in our state and across the nation for their leadership and service to agricultural education and FFA. I am honored to have the privilege of working alongside them.” These exemplary individuals have embodied the essence of the FFA, championing excellence and success in the realm of agricultural education. We commemorate their well-earned recognition and extend our profound appreciation for their significant contributions to this noble cause.