GMG alum Cornwell awarded National American FFA Degree
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INDIANAPOLIS - Each year, the National FFA Organization honors FFA members who show the utmost dedication to the organization through their desire to develop their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success via agricultural education by bestowing the American FFA Degree. This year's awardees include GMG's own Jacob Cornwell.
The award honors a select group of students in recognition of their years of academic and professional excellence. In 2026, over 5,800 American Degrees were awarded. Less than 1% of FFA members achieve the American FFA Degree. Cornwell received his American FFA Degree at the 99th National FFA Convention & Expo on Oct. 24, in Indianapolis. Sponsored by Bayer, Cargill, Case IH, John Deere, Rabobank, and Syngenta, the award recognizes demonstrated ability and outstanding achievements in agricultural business, production, processing, or service programs.
To be eligible, FFA members must have earned at least $10,000 or earned at least $2,000 and worked at least 2,250 hours outside of class time through a supervised agricultural experience (SAE) program in which they own their own business,hold a professional position as an employee, or conduct research. Recipients must also complete 50 hours of community
service and demonstrate outstanding leadership abilities and civic involvement through the completion of a long list of FFA and community activities. After being recognized at the national convention, each recipient of the American FFA Degree receives a gold American FFA Degree key and certificate.
Cornwell's SAE program consisted of working for his uncle on their family farm in rural Green Mountain. He began his project during his freshman year of high school and continues to work for the family farm today. He has gained many skills to help further him in his future career from this experience.
Cornwell is the son of Patrick and Deb Cornwell of Garwin and is a 2025 graduate of GMG High School.
The GMG FFA Chapter is proud of Jacob and his accomplishments and we look forward to seeing where his future takes him.