Kearney High School graduate Stella DePrenger has become the first member of the Kearney FFA chapter to earn the American FFA Degree, one of the organization’s highest honors.

DePrenger, a member of the KHS Class of 2025, received the degree Oct. 24 at the 99th National FFA Convention & Expo in Indianapolis. She was among more than 5,800 members nationwide who received the honor this year.

Fewer than 1% of FFA members nationwide earn the American FFA Degree. The award recognizes achievement in agricultural education, leadership, career development and community service.

To qualify, recipients must demonstrate substantial hands-on experience through a supervised agricultural experience program, along with leadership and civic involvement. They must also complete at least 50 hours of community service.

DePrenger is now a sophomore at Northwest Missouri State University, where she is majoring in agricultural science.

Her recognition marks a first for the Kearney FFA chapter and a milestone for the district’s agricultural education program.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Kearney High School senior Stella DePrenger has earned the prestigious Missouri State FFA Degree, an honor reserved for the top FFA members in the state.

State FFA Degrees are awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional commitment to agricultural education, leadership, and community service. According to KHS FFA Sponsor Erica Hart, recipients must meet rigorous qualifications, including maintaining an exemplary work-based learning project, proving themselves as leaders in their FFA chapter and school, and giving back to the community through service projects.

“This is a tremendous achievement for Stella,” Hart said. “She has worked incredibly hard to grow as a leader and make a positive impact in our school and community.”

The Missouri State FFA Degree is the highest honor the organization bestows at the state level, recognizing students who go above and beyond in their agricultural education and leadership development.

KPGZ News – Ray Weikal contributed to this story.