Indiana FFA works to create eye opening experiences for not only ag teachers but FFA members with the introduction of Unified Career Development Event contests.
Amanda Mullins, Indiana FFA Assistant Director for Career & Leadership Development, shared, “We went with the process of we want these kids to feel included and involved with other things going on in their chapter, hey let’s team it up with meat judging and milk quality because there are the meats, milk, and dairy product portions to it. They can be learning and practicing alongside their other members.”
After stepping out of the classroom, Mullins wanted to find a way to involve other FFA members. Beginning in April of 2024, herself along with a team of agriculture teachers, special education teachers, and parents of FFA members with intellectual disabilities worked to create opportunities for members through Unified Horticulture and Unified Animal, Dairy, and Meat contests.
“We’re trying to relate it back to careers and jobs that they could have in all of these events so obviously being able to identify things is important, but can we take it to another step, do they understand what a plant needs to grow and secondly the stages of a plants life,” added Mullins.
These contests have shown steady growth over time with hopes to introduce a Leadership Development Event contest in the 2026-2027 school year. The first Unified Horticulture contest started with 14 participants and grew to 27 participants in 2025. The Unified Animal, Dairy, and Meats contest had 17 FFA members participating in 2026. The top 4 members in each of these contests are recognized at the Indiana FFA State Convention in June.
“Matt wasn’t completely oblivious to some of this, so he knew some of it but it was really fun. We started practicing in October but watching him evolve with the other species, that was really exciting to watch him flourish in this contest. I think its something that does interest him especially the foods and the animals he’s worked with,” shared Cassie Wallpe, Batesville FFA advisor.
She had the opportunity to coach FFA member Matt leading up to the Unified Animal, Dairy, and Meats and Unified Horticulture contests. During the contests, Jason, a fellow FFA member, was able to help Matt while reading questions. Jason explained how it was incredible being able to see what he could do during the contest. Matt shared he really enjoyed his experience with his favorite part being identifying both cattle and goat species. In addition, he appreciated having Jason as a helper.
If you know of a member wanting to compete in these contests, reach out to your local FFA advisor.
