In the agricultural education classroom at Ridgemont High school, sunlight filters through the windows shining on the white walls. The room hums with the chatter of students, while a door at the back leads to the bustling 'ag shop,' where hands-on projects come to life.
This dynamic environment is the domain of Stephanie Jolliff, PhD, agricultural education instructor and FFA advisor at Ridgemont High School, who has grown the Ridgemont FFA program from a small group of 30 to 40 members into a national, award-winning program with 120 members.
From Small Beginnings to National Recognition
When Jolliff first arrived at Ridgemont in 2004, the FFA chapter was a small program with limited member participation. When she was hired, she went into the classroom to begin building her vision for the program.
"I said to the students, what are the things that you really want, and what do you think will make us successful? How do you identify success?" Jolliff said. "I think that's the biggest first step, because every program and every person identifies success differently."
Jolliff attributes the program's success to a focus on student empowerment. In 2010 and 2011, the chapter was names a National Model of Innovation, now referred to as the Premier Chapter Award. This award recognizes FFA chapters that implement the organization's mission and strategies, focusing on three key areas: growing leaders, building communities, and strengthening agriculture. Chapters are evaluated for the award based on their activities and impact in these areas. Those demonstrating exceptional innovation and effectiveness are honored with this award.
Photo to the left: Stephanie Jolliff assists students with their agriscience fair projects. Photo by Mykenzie Lance
Creating a Culture of Growth
According to her daughter and former student, Mekenzie Jolliff, her mother's passion for the industry is "unreal."
"She strives to teach others not only the role of agriculture in our everyday lives, but what their role in agriculture is," Mekenzie said. "She wholeheartedly believes that each and every student she teaches can have their own individual impact and wants to provide every opportunity that she can."
"She strives to teach others not only the role of agriculture in our everyday lives, but what their role in agriculture is. She wholeheartedly believes that each and every student she teaches can have their own individual impact and wants to provide every opportunity that she can." Mekenzie Jolliff
"What I think makes our program really unique is we really focus deeply on the individual student, and how we can help that student grow through agriculture," Jolliff said.
Whether a student is passionate about animal science or has ambitions in the medical field, Jolliff strives to make agriculture relevant to each student's unique interests.
"Everyone who's in an animal science or plant science class may not have a sincere interest in that, but if we can connect the science side of it to the medical field that they're interested in, we really can serve students better," she said.
According to Katie Johnson, a 2012 Ridgemont FFA alumnus, this approach is what sets Ridgemont FFA apart from other FFA chapters.
"It was more than just an agricultural practice and shop class," Johnson said. "We learned interview skills, scientific procedures, dining etiquette, business skills, budgeting, and more."
Photo to the right: award plaques displayed in the Ridgemont FFA classroom. Photo by Mykenzie Lance
Overcoming Challenges With Grit and Resilience
While the path to success has been full of achievements, it hasn't been without its challenges. Early on, Jolliff said she faced many obstacles, including students' perception that Ridgemont couldn't compete on the national stage. However, she empowered her students to see beyond their small town.
"Jolliff was one of those amazing teachers that could make anyone in the room feel more confident in themselves," Johnson said. "She has this empowering influence that gave you the confidence to go above and beyond think outside of the box when you normally wouldn't, which is definitely something that has stuck with me even after graduation."
A Legacy of Hard Work, Dedication and Love
As Jolliff looks to the future, she remains committed to preparing students for life beyond Ridgemont's doors.
"My only goal as an ag teacher is to make sure we produce young people who are ready to walk out the doors when they graduate," Jolliff said.
"My mom's legacy is one that is build out of hard work, dedication, and the utmost love and respect for the agricultural industry," Mekenzie said.
As jolliff continues to nurture the next generation of agricultural leaders, her impact will be felt for years to come. Through her strong passion, innovation and commitment to her students, she has transformed Ridgemont FFA into more than just a program—it's a family, a community and a legacy.