The Missouri Future Farmers of America (FFA) Association named a Missouri State University faculty member an Honorary State FFA Degree recipient.  

Dr. Christine Sudbrock is an assistant professor for the William H. Darr College of Agriculture. She has worked for the university for nine years.  

Sudbrock said she felt pleased of her honor.  

“FFA has always held a special place in my heart,” she said. 

In high school, Sudbrock participated as a member of the Lexington FFA Chapter. She served as area president and won the state outdoor recreation proficiency award. Proficiency awards recognize students’ specialized skills, which they can apply in their future careers. 

“I credit my time in FFA for helping me develop into the leader I am,” Sudbrock said. “I made countless dear friendships that last even today.”  

Sudbrock has since assisted with state FFA officer interviews. Sudbrock also contributes time to southwest district career development events, the Missouri Agribusiness Academy, and the Greenhand Motivational Conference, which provides FFA members with learning and leadership opportunities.  

“I have loved working with FFA students throughout the southwest district and at the state level,” Sudbrock said. “Being chosen as a degree recipient is truly an honor.” 

Those eligible to receive the Missouri FFA Association’s honorary degrees include farmers, school superintendents, principals, members of the board of education, chapter advisors, teachers, staff members in agricultural education, business professionals, and others who are helping to advance agricultural education and the FFA.  

Paving the way

Missouri FFA has almost 26,000 members representing 384 chapters. The national organization has more than 700,000 members representing 8,612 chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.  

Their mission is to make a difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.