In celebration of FFA Week, we are excited to spotlight some of our outstanding freshman FFA members and recognize the ways they are already getting involved and representing our chapter. Today our spotlights are Jesus Neri Gatica , Addison Archey, and Nadiah Lopez!
Jesus Neri Gatica :
“Since joining FFA in the fall of 2025, I never expected to get this far. It has already been an amazing experience with all the things I’ve been able to be part of. My first competition was the Greenhand Quiz. Even though we didn’t win, it was still a really great experience and a fun way to start competing in FFA.
Now I’m involved in both Entomology and Food Science. We recently had our first competition, and we did pretty well for it being our first time. It was exciting to see all the things we had been studying actually come together during the contest. I’ve learned a lot so far and have really enjoyed being part of a team.
FFA has already become a very fun and important part of my school year, and I’m excited to keep learning, competing, and improving. I’m looking forward to what the future holds for me in FFA.”
Addison Archey:
“Although I haven’t been a member of the FFA for very long, the experiences I’ve had so far have already left an impact that will stay with me for the rest of my life. I joined the Clovis FFA Chapter this past fall, and since then, my perspective has completely shifted. I’ve gained a deep appreciation for the world of agriculture and the incredible dedication that agriculturists pour into their work every single day to sustain our communities.
One of the major highlights of my first year was participating in Creed Speaking. With the mentorship of Ms. Sanchez, I worked tirelessly to memorize the FFA Creed and understand its deeper meaning. Stepping up to compete was a challenge, but I was thrilled to make it all the way to the finals. While I ultimately placed 8th overall, I am incredibly proud of the discipline it took to master the recitation and the critical thinking required to answer complex questions about the industry. This experience taught me that success isn't just about the trophy; it's about the leadership skills and confidence you build along the way.
The FFA has already made me a better, more driven person by pushing me to set higher standards for myself. Although I wasn’t able to participate in a Career Development Event (CDE) like judging this year, I am already looking forward to competing next season—specifically on the Wildlife team. My ultimate goal is to become a veterinarian, and I know that the hands-on experience and Veterinary Science pathway offered through Clovis FFA will be the perfect foundation for my future career. I’m excited to keep growing within this organization and see what else I can achieve.” “Happy FFA Week”
Nadiah Lopez:
“Joining FFA gave me the opportunity to step outside of my comfort zone, develop new skills, and discover how agriculture connects people and shapes the future. It has been a meaningful experience that has opened many doors for me and helped me grow both personally and academically.
I first joined FFA in Fort Sumner during my seventh-grade year. Since then, FFA has helped me build confidence, learn valuable leadership skills, and form strong connections with others who share similar interests. During my first year, I challenged myself by participating in a speech contest. It pushed me outside of my comfort zone, but it helped me gain confidence and improve my communication skills.
Another experience I have really enjoyed is participating in judging contests. My all-time favorite contest is wildlife because it has allowed me to learn more about animals and their habitats. Through wildlife, I have developed stronger observation skills and gained a better understanding of how agriculture and the environment work together.
This year is my third year being involved in FFA. I am no longer in Fort Sumner, but I am now participating in FFA in Clovis, and it has been a great experience. This amazing program continues to challenge me and allows me to try new things like entomology. It has been difficult at times, but that’s okay because sometimes you have to struggle in order to learn and improve. I am taking it one step at a time, and I’m still participating in wildlife, my favorite judging contest.
I am very grateful for FFA and everything I have achieved so far. Now I have the opportunity to accomplish even more in Clovis with the help of my amazing agriculture teacher, Ms. Sanchez. FFA has impacted my life in more ways than I could have ever imagined.”