The Kentucky FFA Foundation recently announced the recipients of the Fall 2024 SAE (Supervised Agricultural Experience) Launch Grants, and several Garrard County High School students have been recognized among the 86 deserving winners statewide. This program, funded by generous contributions from organizations such as the Steele Reese Foundation, First Southern National Bank, Ag Credit, Hutson, and The Mulhollem-Cravens Foundation, awarded $500 grants to students to support their agricultural projects.
Out of nearly 300 applications, Garrard County High School students showcased their passion and innovation, earning recognition for their outstanding proposals. Congratulations to the following students:
Rachel Brown – sponsored by First Southern National Bank
Abigail Browning – sponsored by Steele Reese Foundation
Kaden Childress – sponsored by First Southern National Bank
Hailey Condon – sponsored by Central KY Ag Credit Association
Devin Delucia – sponsored by First Southern National Bank
Adryana Holcomb – sponsored by First Southern National Bank
Grace Lockard – sponsored by Steele Reese Foundation
These students’ projects demonstrate a commitment to agriculture and leadership, reflecting the strength and talent of the Garrard County FFA Chapter. The $43,000 in total grant funding statewide will help recipients take their SAE projects to the next level.
Taker a closer look at the innovative projects these GCHS students are pursuing, with individual summaries and photos below. Congratulations to all the winners for their hard work and dedication to agricultural excellence!
Rachel Brown, Garrard County High School Junior
Rachel, a junior at GCHS and the FFA Chapter Secretary, is utilizing her $500 SAE Grant to support her project focused on Photography for Wildlife and Forestry Research. This project allows Rachel to combine her passion for photography with her interest in environmental conservation, helping her document and explore the natural world. Rachel is excited to continue making a positive impact through her work!
Abigail Browning, Garrard County High School Senior
Abigail Browning, a senior at GCHS, is using her $500 SAE Grant to cultivate a variety of flowers, vegetables, and fruits. Her project focuses on sharing the harvest with her community and friends, showcasing her dedication to agriculture and giving back.
Kaden Childress, Garrard County High School Junior
Kaden's SAE project focuses on the restoration of a cattle trailer to ensure its safety and functionality. With the grant funds, Kaden plans to help replace the trailer’s floor, tires, and crossmembers, as well as address additional necessary repairs. This project not only enhances the trailer’s durability but also supports Kaden’s agricultural endeavors by maintaining reliable equipment for transporting livestock.
Hailey Condon, Garrard County High School Senior
Hailey, a senior at Garrard County High School, is using her SAE grant to invest in a Canon EOS Rebel T7 camera. Her project focuses on documenting the growth and development of the animals she cares for. Through high-quality photography, Hailey aims to capture the progress and milestones of her animals, blending her passion for agriculture with creative expression.
Devin Delucia, Garrard County High School Sophomore
Devin, a sophomore at Garrard County High School, is using her SAE grant to purchase a new saddle. Devin's current saddle is too small, causing discomfort for both rider and horse. With this upgrade, Devin aims to improve training and competition experiences while ensuring the horse’s back remains healthy and unharmed. This project highlights Devin's dedication to responsible and effective equine care.
Adryanna Holcomb, Garrard County High School Sophomore
Adryana's SAE project focuses on enhancing the health and well-being of her cattle. With the grant funds, she plans to purchase essential supplies such as minerals, grain, feed, and medicine. This project ensures her cattle receive proper nutrition and care, contributing to their overall health and productivity.
Grace Lockard, Garrard County High School Sophomore
Grace, a sophomore at GCHS, is putting her SAE Grant toward purchasing a new leather breast collar and bridle for her horses. These upgrades will enhance her ability to care for and work with her horses, ensuring they are equipped with high-quality gear for both training and competition. Grace’s dedication to improving her equine equipment highlights her commitment to her project and her passion for working with horses.
Not pictured in group photo: Abigail Browning