FFA chapter president Gabrielle McDonnell has been involved in FFA all four years of high school in Potosi.
McDonnell has been a great asset to the FFA chapter for all four years and the Potosi Patriots 4-H club secretary in her very first year. While in 4-H, McDonnell has helped to renew the hog pins in the barn at the fairgrounds, showing and selling a rabbit, and a hog. She has lived on a 100-acre farm raising horses, cows, pigs, and dogs. She also likes to compete in barrel racing events in her hometown of Potosi, Missouri, and Bonne Terre, Missouri.
Becoming president of FFA has been one of her goals since sophomore year, trying out for the president position since her sophomore year. “It’s early in the year still but so far I’ve sold over 100 mums, been to all the FFA meetings and activities, got myself a spot at the national convention, won grand champions at the Greenhand conference, and made new friends. I’ve learned that being president is a lot different than any other office because you have to set that good example and be a leader, lead your group outside their comfort zone, and not be shy,” said President McDonnell.
She has been a great role model for all FFA members and puts effort into planning activities for the chapter. “ I think Gabby has been an excellent president, she is a true leader and handles every situation that is thrown at her no matter what it is, to the best of her abilities. She takes pride in what she does and how she handles things. She does everything to the best of her abilities,” said Senior Blaire Miller.
“With this being my first year as the AG teacher and FFA Advisor, Gabby has been a tremendous help to me. She has done a great job fulfilling her duties as Potosi FFA President. She is always willing to help out in any way she can. She is kind, and considerate and leads our Potosi FFA Chapter well! I am excited to see her excel this year.” said FFA advisor, Mrs. Nickelson.
After attaining her state degree for this year, which is only achieved by three percent of FFA members, McDonnell will then try to attain her American Degree which only one percent of FFA members obtain, a year after graduation. In the end, McDonnell’s dedication to the role of chapter president has shown in the way her peers talk about her and what the FFA advisor, Mrs. Nickelson, has to say as well.
