Colfax FFA Students Shine at National Championship, Build Legacy

The Future Farmers of America (FFA) chapter at Colfax High School is poised for a promising future, even as this year’s seniors prepare to graduate. The team made a strong showing at the recent FFA National Championship, where senior Isabella Huntley earned an individual title in Agricultural Sales. The group event also saw the team secure a commendable second place overall. Fellow senior Hailey Vandenbark represented the team individually, clinching a bronze medal in Forage Production Proficiency Application.

Continuing the Tradition

Despite the departure of these talented seniors, the legacy of the Colfax FFA is set to continue. Junior Garin Monson is among those returning next year, bringing with him a rich family history in agriculture. Monson’s family has been farming in the region since the late 1800s, spanning areas from LaCrosse to Steptoe.

“It’s mainly grain farming,” Monson explained. “We do a little bit of hay, but we’re mainly grain now.” He has been active on the family farm since childhood, operating machinery and managing various agricultural tasks.

Huntley’s family farm, primarily located in Endicott, also encompasses areas like Lancaster and Thera. She balances her commitments to FFA, sports, and other extracurricular activities with summer work on the farm, having driven combines for wheat harvest since 2021. “There are definitely lots of odd jobs,” she noted, reflecting on her experiences growing up on the farm.

Future Aspirations

Both Huntley and Vandenbark are preparing for their next steps. Huntley plans to pursue a career in medicine and volunteers at a hospital in Spokane. Vandenbark, who has been involved in agriculture her entire life, comes from a family that farms in both Idaho and Oregon, producing wheat and hay varieties. “I’ve always gone out with my dad on service calls, helping him with farm equipment,” she shared.

FFA adviser and agricultural education teacher Michael Heitstuman praised the students’ dedication. “Everyone on the team is a hard worker, whether in agriculture or another pursuit,” he said, recognizing both Huntley and Vandenbark for their diligence as they prepare for college.

Vandenbark expressed gratitude for her family’s support, emphasizing the importance of community in their journeys. “Our community, our teammates, and our parents are not just there to support us,” Huntley said, “but they help ensure we can reach our highest potential, both individually and as a team.”

The Colfax FFA chapter continues to foster a strong agricultural legacy, with new generations ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.