Quincy Reporter

State Senator Jil Tracy highlighted a constituent's achievement in an October 26 Facebook post, stating, "Thad, a native of Franklin, earned the honor after an extensive selection process at the national convention this week in Indianapolis."

"Congratulations to Thaddeus Bergschneider on being named President of the National FFA Organization," said Tracy, according to Facebook. "Thad, a native of Franklin, earned the honor after an extensive selection process at the national convention this week in Indianapolis."

According to her Facebook post, Tracy shared a link to a National FFA Organization announcement regarding the 2024 National officer team. The post read: "Drumroll, please! The 2024-25 National FFA Officer Team has officially been announced!" It included a photograph naming each officer: Thaddeus Bergschneider as President; Luke Jennings as Secretary; Mary Schrieber as Central Region Vice President; Caroline Groth as Eastern Region Vice President; Abigale Jacobsen as Western Region Vice President; and Jack Lingenfelter as Southern Region Vice President.

Screenshot of Sen. Jil Tracy's Oct. 26 Facebook post | State Senator Jil Tracy Facebook page

The 97th National Convention & Expo took place in Indiana from October 23 to October 26. Attendees participated in competitive events, delegate events, workshops, and enjoyed entertainment such as concerts, rodeo events, and hypnotist shows. On the final day of the event, there was a degree ceremony and the seventh general session. Awards presented included the American FFA Degree, the American Star Awards, Career and Leadership Development Events, Honorary Awards, Agricultural Proficiency Awards, the Agriscience Fair, and the National Chapter Awards.

On October 24, Tracy shared another post expressing support for FFA convention attendees. She wrote: "Wishing the best of luck to our 50th District’s own Thad Bergschneider on his quest for office at the National FFA Organization convention in Indianapolis this week. Thad has advanced to the next round in the national officer selection process. He served as Illinois Association FFA President in 2023. Best of luck Thad, and thank you for representing our state proudly!"

Tracy has represented the people of the 50th Senate District since 2022 after serving eight years in the state House of Representatives from 2006 to 2014. During her tenure as a State Representative, she sat on the Rod Blagojevich impeachment committee. She has also worked in private law and served as Mt. Sterling City Attorney before becoming an Assistant Illinois Attorney General under both Jim Ryan and Lisa Madigan. She resides in Quincy with her husband; they have four children.