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 through agricultural education.

The American Farmer degree is bestowed upon a select group of students in recognition of their years of academic and professional excellence.

Alexis Ulloa, a member of the Central Valley High FFA chapter, was awarded the American Farmer degree at the 2013 National FFA Convention & Expo Oct. 30-Nov. 2 in Louisville, Ky.

To be eligible, FFA members must have earned and productively invested $7,500 through a supervised agricultural experience program in which they start, own or hold a professional position in an existing agriocultural enterprise. Recipients must also complete 50 hours of community service and demonstrate outstanding leadership abilities and civic involvment.

Ulloa is an animal sciences major at Modesto Junior College who plans to transfer to Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo on her way to become a large animal veterinarian. During her high school career she showed lambs at five Stanislaus County Fairs. She also participated in a number of school campus educational ventures, such as the Sinclear career day event.