Quincy Reporter

Sen. Neil Anderson (R-Aledo) recently praised a Canton youth for earning a spot among this year’s Future Farmers of America (FFA) state officers.

“Congratulations Cooper Nelson from Canton and the 56th District on your Illinois Association FFA state officer title!” Anderson wrote in a June 20 Facebook post.

Anderson shared a post from the Illinois FFA Facebook page that introduced the officers for the upcoming year.

“llinois FFA, please welcome your 2023-2024 Major State Officers!,” the June 15 Facebook post stated. “President - Thaddeus Bergschneider, Franklin FFA Chapter (Section 14) Vice President - Eric Wisely, Nashville FFA Chapter (Section 21) Reporter - Cooper Nelson, Canton FFA Chapter (Section 12) Secretary - Riley Kessler, Staunton FFA Chapter (Section 15) Treasurer - Benjamin Bremmer, Pearl City FFA Chapter, (Section 1). The team was elected by the student delegates at the 95th Illinois FFA State Convention during the Election Session and will serve the members of Illinois FFA for the upcoming year. We're excited to see how they will spark their impact! #ElectrifyFFA”

The Illinois FFA is an organization for youths from middle school to college that offers students an opportunity to learn about agricultural education and concepts of leadership. Each organization isn’t limited to those who have plans to become production farmers as the group teaches principles that will help youths who want to pursue careers in business, banking, technology and government.

The organization's new officers were elected during the 2023 convention, which was held June 13-15 and included a variety of activities and recognition for members who had achieved big things during the year. An honorary state degree ceremony was held on June 14 and the election of new officers was held on June 15.

Anderson represents the 47th District. He is also a firefighter and paramedic with the Moline Fire Department. He is a lifelong Illinois resident, moving back to the state after attending the University of Nebraska.