PVHS FFA banquet celebrates leadership, tradition and student growth

Members of the Pahranagat Valley High School FFA gathered on May 5 in the PVHS multipurpose room for their annual banquet, where an evening of reflection, recognition and celebration highlighted the chapter’s accomplishments.

Parents, FFA students and distinguished guests came together to celebrate the year and the achievements of its members.

During the program, guest speaker and FFA advisor Taylor Poulsen shared a message centered on perseverance and growth. Referencing Robert Frost and his well-known line about “the road less traveled,” Poulsen reminded attendees that while the harder path is not always easy, it often makes all the difference. The message connected closely to agriculture, where those in the industry are often the first to rise and the last to go to sleep, putting in long hours and steady effort.

Poulsen also emphasized the importance of daily inspiration — encouraging students to uplift one another and stay motivated as they pursue their goals.

The evening included recognition of achievements across the chapter. Haddy Jones was recognized with the Greenhand Degree,  reflecting dedication and commitment to the program.

Two seniors, Sammy Mathews and Ellie Hatch, were honored as they earned their graduation sashes, receiving both their Chapter Degrees and Greenhand Degrees.

As chapter president, Sammy Mathews addressed those in attendance and carried on a meaningful tradition as she was presented a retiring gavel, a ceremonial symbol of her leadership and service to the chapter. She reflected on her journey in FFA, sharing gratitude for the opportunity to be involved throughout high school.

Mathews spoke about the influence of her brother, Weston, a former chapter president, who encouraged her to step into leadership. What began as self-doubt, she said, turned into confidence through her experiences in FFA.

“It turned me from one of the most unconfident people into one of the most confident,” Mathews shared. “It taught me how to speak and helped me become the best I can be.”

New officers were officially sworn in, marking the transition into the upcoming year. The 2026-27 officer team includes Macie Bundy as president, Sydnee Melton and Liberty Post as vice presidents, Zoe Melton as secretary, Sierra Mathews as treasurer and Abbey Roemer as sentinel.

Bundy shared her excitement for the future of the program.

“I am so excited. I hope to get the community more involved and grow the FFA family bigger,” Bundy said.

She then formally adjourned the meeting, closing out the evening and stepping into her new leadership role.

When asked to reflect on the FFA program and its future, Taylor Poulsen offered the following:

“I look forward to seeing what the next year’s FFA officers and program do in the upcoming year,”