Quapaw’s Sidany Hilburn – FFA Spotlight Presented by Oklahoma AgCredit

By Derrick Smith

When the Future Farmers of America program is mentioned, usually what comes to mind for most people are animals being raised and shown. Sidany Hilburn says that FFA is much more than that.

“The neatest thing about FFA is that it’s grown to mean a lot more than showing animals,” she said. “Most FFA members in fact have never stepped foot in a show ring. My passions lie in different areas within the organization.”

Hilburn is a senior at Quapaw High School and is in her fifth year of the FFA program. She says she joined the program because she saw how it benefited her sister.

“I joined FFA as an eighth grader trying to find my niche in the high school scene,” Sidany said. “I followed in the footsteps of my big sister, Darcy Hilburn, because I noticed all the opportunities she was given through this organization and decided to see what it would have in store for me.”

And while the things she has learned are numerous, it has also afforded her the ability to meet new people and build relationships.

“I love everything in FFA,” she stated. “My favorite things, however, would have to be all the life skills I’ve gained from various Career Development Events, the lifelong friendships I’ve made along the way, and above all being able to mentor younger members and give them a sense of confidence that my role models gave to me.”

Sidany has won her share of awards during her time in FFA.

“I was fortunate enough to recently be named Northeast Area Star in Agriscience,” she said. “Additionally, I have been named a State Champion twice in Agriscience Fair and runner-up once, as well as many prepared and extemporaneous speech awards. This year I am fortunate enough to be serving my chapter as President.”

Her favorite memory from her time in FFA was a recent trip she took to our nation’s capital.

“Last summer, I had the opportunity to attend Washington Leadership Conference in Washington D.C. It was a week full of leadership lessons and fellowship with 200 other Oklahoma FFA members as well as hundreds of members from other states across the country.”Sidany has big plans after she graduates from Quapaw. First, she will attend Oklahoma State University where she will pursue an Agriculture Business degree with a Pre-Law option. Then, she will work towards an Agricultural Law degree from the University of Arkansas.

Hilburn is not shy to share and promote the FFA program to other students.

“I tell all underclassmen who are considering joining FFA or are new members to simply ‘be all there’,” she said. “FFA is not a very popular option when it comes to extracurricular activities, but the opportunities are truly endless. Dive right in, don’t be scared to try new things, and always remember you don’t have to come from an agricultural background to thrive in this organization.”