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On Monday, January 12, 21 students from Lancaster Mennonite School’s Hans Herr FFA chapter traveled to Harrisburg to attend the Pennsylvania Farm Show, a day filled with hands-on learning, career exploration, and celebration of agriculture across the Commonwealth.
The visit began with an FFA-only Agricultural Career Fair, where students connected with more than 40 employers representing careers in agriculture, science, technology, and related industries. Students learned about internships, training programs, and long-term career pathways, gaining insight into the many ways agriculture intersects with innovation, stewardship, and service.
Following the career fair, students explored the Farm Show complex, taking in hundreds of commercial exhibits, educational displays, and thousands of animals—including cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, rabbits, poultry, and more. Exhibits from organizations such as Penn State, the PA Department of Agriculture, and the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources highlighted the importance of sustainability, conservation, and responsible farming practices.
In the afternoon, students attended the 97th Pennsylvania FFA Mid-Winter Convention at the New Holland Arena, joining nearly 12,000 FFA members and alumni from across the state. During the ceremony, Lancaster Mennonite proudly celebrated Liam Dangler, Charlotte Clement, and Alina Karr, who each received an official FFA jacket, part of a record-breaking statewide presentation.
The convention also featured remarks from Russell Redding, PA Secretary of Agriculture, and Dr. Carrie Rowe, PA Secretary of Education, who spoke about the vital role of agricultural education in Pennsylvania’s economy and future. Students were encouraged by the words of Sherisea Nailor, PA FFA Alumni President, who reminded members that growth comes not only from success, but from the experiences gained along the way.
The day concluded with time to enjoy Farm Show traditions—including a visit to the famous PA Dairymen’s Association milkshake stand—and reflect on how FFA supports leadership development, career readiness, and care for creation.
Lancaster Mennonite’s Hans Herr FFA chapter is led by Allie Doutrich, President, and Lydia Harrison, Vice President, whose leadership helps guide and strengthen the chapter throughout the year. The Farm Show experience was a meaningful opportunity for students to see classroom learning come alive while connecting faith, service, and agriculture in real-world ways.
Reflecting on the day, Vice President Lydia Harrison shared that her favorite moments included “watching a cow give birth, cattle judging, the mullet contest, the butter sculpture, and of course, the food — a chocolate milkshake and cheese cubes.”
