Erwin student earns historic nod as Tennessee FFA president

A Unicoi County High School student has been selected as Tennessee FFA president, becoming the first state officer from UCSH in more than 70 years. Junior Emma Hummer has seen years of hard work and dedication reached a fever pitch in late March when she got elected as the FFA state president for Tennessee. She is only the third East Tennessean to hold the position in the last 30 years. Although she had already been serving as the regional president, Hummer said she's still in a bit of disbelief at her elevation to the state presidency. "Excited is an understatement," Hummer said. "I've dreamed of becoming a state officer since my freshman year, when I watched the 2022-23 team on stage at my very first Tennessee FFA State Convention. To see that dream come full circle is an incredible feeling." Once her name was called and the session ended, Hummer said that stepping off the stage and seeing all her family, chapter members and advisors waiting for her and seeing how proud they were of her instantly became one of the best parts of the entire event. Hummer said her teammates elected alongside her are some of the most amazing individuals she knows and that she can't wait for the upcoming year. UCHS agriculture teacher and FFA advisor Ryan Arnett said that he and the rest of the chapter could not be happier for Emma. "We are ecstatic and super proud of her accomplishments, not just for being named state president, but just for the effort and work she's put into this," Arnett said. "You won't find a harder working individual than Emma." The opportunity to represent Erwin and Unicoi County is something that Hummer said is a unique chance that she is does not want to take for granted. "Being born and raised here, this town holds a special place in my heart, and I feel truly blessed to be part of such an amazing community," Hummer added. "Growing up, I was always heavily involved in sports, and I loved getting the chance to represent our school and town in that way. Now, having the opportunity to represent Unicoi from a different angle, by advocating for agriculture, the backbone of our community, means even more to me." She added, "It's an honor to give back to the place that has shaped who I am." Hummer said that while she recognizes this accomplishment came from her preparation, knowledge and studying, she also knows there's so much more for her to learn. She said that she's always looking for ways to improve, and this title will not change that ambition as she hopes to connect with more members and figure out more ways to advocate for and learn about the agriculture industry. The accomplishment did not come individually for Hummer as she said there's a lot of people to thank for helping her get to this point. "First and foremost are my family, who have been my biggest cheerleaders throughout my life, especially during my FFA journey," said Hummer. "I also owe so much to my two FFA advisors, Ryan Arnett and Makenzye Stoots." From every one of the many interview practices to the long drives to prep courses, she said that her advisors have been fully dedicated to her growth and success, not just as an FFA member, but as a person. "They've believed in me even on the days I struggled to believe in myself, and I can wholeheartedly say that I wouldn't be where I am today without them," Hummer said. Next for Hummer will be a year full of many trips across the state and country as she fulfills her duties as state president. FFA is a completely member-led organization meaning Hummer will be leading all 34,182 Tennessee FFA members. That's a big deal for Hummer, who said that this opportunity is something she takes very seriously. "This honor means more to me than I can fully put into words.," she said. "Being elected as state president isn't just a title — it represents years of growth, hard work and the support of so many people who have stood beside me." She added, "While it's incredibly exciting, it's also a responsibility and a commitment that I don't take lightly. This role reminds me of how far I've come and motivates me to give my very best to the members I now have the privilege of serving."