Sharon Springs CSD’s Allen Honored with Honorary American FFA Degree

INDIANAPOLIS —  Mrs. Anne Allen, a longtime agricultural educator and FFA advisor at Sharon Springs Central School, has been awarded the 2025 Honorary American FFA Degree at the 98th National FFA Convention & Expo. This prestigious national honor recognizes individuals who have provided exceptional service to agricultural education and the FFA organization.

Mrs. Allen began her teaching career at Sharon Springs Central School in 1996, where she quickly became known for her dedication, leadership, and commitment to student success. Over nearly three decades, she has inspired countless students, both in her classroom and through her work with FFA, to explore agricultural education, leadership, and community service. She has advised multiple graduating classes and mentored students in developing the confidence and skills necessary for success beyond high school.

Throughout her tenure, Mrs. Allen has led students to numerous local, state, and national FFA events, ensuring they gain hands-on experiences and opportunities to grow as leaders. She has accompanied students to State and National FFA Conventions, and her mentorship has helped many achieve the highest honors, with several going on to hold state and national FFA offices.

Her students speak passionately about the difference she has made in their lives.

“Mrs. Allen, through FFA, has helped me to be more open and able to meet new people and to interact with them. She encouraged and supported me to participate in contests, and she pushed me to engage in leadership conferences. Taking me to camp multiple times, I met so many people and made new friends. Mrs. Allen is always helpful and upbeat.”

High School Junior

“Thank you for fueling a passion in being an active part of my community as well as helping me become a confident public speaker.”

High School Sophomore

“Mrs. Allen has always been there for us. She made time to help me with contests and get awards. She came in over summer vacation to help me get my Empire Degree, and I am so grateful to have had her as my club advisor. She was like a second mother to all of us.”

High School Senior

“Mrs. Allen has pushed me through FFA to become a more outgoing person through contests, like my very first one which was extemporaneous speaking, and activities like going to Camp Oswegatchie and the other FFA Conferences. She has also encouraged me to do more, as I attempted to pursue a district office, and to always keep trying and learning from my setbacks.”

High School Senior

In addition to her classroom work, Mrs. Allen has been instrumental in organizing trips to Camp Oswegatchie, a leadership and outdoor education camp that has played a vital role in the growth and development of young agricultural leaders across New York State.

Her positive influence extends beyond students.

“As a young teacher, Mrs. Allen took me under her wing, showed me the ropes, helped me stay out of trouble, and helped me survive my first few years as a teacher,” shared Mr. Dan Cornwell, Secondary Math Teacher. “Her infectious positive attitude has drawn me into numerous FFA activities and events over the years. She is always there to help her students no matter what they need help with. It has been my honor to work with her over the years, and I am thankful for all she has done for me, our students, and my family. There is no one more deserving of this honor than Mrs. Allen. Congratulations!”

Mr. Tom Yorke, K–12 Principal/Superintendent, praised her enduring commitment to the values of FFA, stating:

“I know that part of the creed FFA abides by includes statements such as: ‘a faith born not of words but of deeds,’ honoring ‘past generations,’ and giving ‘respect to others.’ I also know SSCS students, for over two decades, have had their education enriched and their lives blessed by Mrs. Allen. She truly and passionately embodies the creed of FFA, providing students with a multitude of opportunities, from running for offices within the organization to planning yearly overnight trips to operating a yearly petting zone for our elementary students. Each of these experiences keeps our students engaged, challenges them, and ultimately ignites their passion for learning. Thank you, Anne, for your tireless and selfless dedication.”

Known as a friend to everyone, Mrs. Allen is respected by students, colleagues, and community members alike. She is celebrated not only as an educator and advisor, but also as a mentor, colleague, wife, and mother. Mrs. Allen is, indeed, someone who has touched the lives of those around her with unwavering kindness, passion, and dedication.

About the National FFA Organization:

The National FFA Organization is a youth organization of more than 945,000 student members nationwide, dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education.