Bailey Named State Star Farmer
Published: Friday, June 27, 2025
The Indiana FFA Association named its 2025 State Stars as a part of its 96th Indiana FFA State Convention.
Kord Bailey of the Central Noble FFA Chapter was presented with the Star Farmer Award. He turned his passion for livestock into a thriving show goat operation, growing his herd from just a few goats to over 70 through AI, flushing, and careful breeding. His commitment to quality and customer service has earned him show-ring success across five states and a strong reputation as a rising star in the goat industry.
Other State Star recipients include Emma Woodall of South Putnam FFA, Star in Agricultural Placement; Christina Caldwell of Connersville FFA, Star in Agriscience; and Kaitlyn Maruszewski of Tri-Central FFA, Star in Agribusiness.
After submitting an application, a personal interview, as well as a site visit, these members were deemed Star Finalists in their respective categories.
Members determined as Star Finalists then are interviewed for a chance to be named as a State Star in these four prestigious award areas: Star Farmer, Star in Agricultural Placement, Star in Agribusiness and Star in Agriscience. They found out the results on June 19 at 6:30 p.m. at the Hoosier Degree Session during the 96th Indiana State FFA Convention at Purdue University.
Those determined as State Stars in each of the categories received a scholarship for $250 sponsored by The Jeff Lehman Family. Each candidate will receive a plaque and award pin from AgReliant. They will also receive a copy of the Star videos showcasing each candidates' program.
Star project descriptions in addition to Bailey's Star Farmer operation include:
Star in Agricultural Placement-Woodall transformed her passion for animals into a hands-on career, rising from an unpaid shadow to a skilled veterinary technician assistant. Her experience sparked a love for large animal reproduction, shaping her future as a large animal veterinarian.
Star in Agriscience-Caldwell conducted six agriscience research projects across animal, plant, food, and social sciences to better understand and improve agriculture education. Her work led her to become a national finalist and inspired her to pursue a career as an agriculture educator passionate about research and student engagement.
Star in Agribusiness—Maruszewski turned her interest in welding into a thriving placement SAE, gaining hands-on experience in metal fabrication and equipment repair. Her dedication has inspired her to pursue a career as an agricultural educator with a focus on ag mechanics.
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