The East Knox FFA of East Knox Local Schools announced that member Laureyah Neely placed fourth in the state at the FFA Dairy Handlers Career Development Event on March 26 at the Ohio Exposition Center in Columbus. The announcement was made in a press release on March 31, 2025.
According to East Knox FFA, the top five competitors from the event will go on to represent Ohio at the Eastern States Exposition in Massachusetts this September. The competition evaluates participants on their ability to lead and position cows for the State Dairy Cattle Evaluation and Management event, similar to a livestock showmanship contest. Judges assess how well competitors handle the animals, ensuring they are set up correctly and guided with control and ease.
Neely, a freshman, secured a top-ten finish in the Dairy Handlers Career Development Event, making her the seventh East Knox FFA member to achieve this distinction. This marks her first year participating in the competition, adding to the chapter’s strong history of success in the event.
The Dairy Cattle Evaluation & Management Career Development Event (CDE) provides students with hands-on experience in assessing dairy cattle and managing herd records. Participants evaluate livestock, classify them based on physical traits, and analyze herd management scenarios as a team. Competing in teams of four, students develop skills in observation, analysis, and communication. They complete individual assessments, including a general knowledge exam and oral presentations while also working collaboratively to solve farm management challenges. According to the National FFA Organization, the event enhances students’ understanding of key dairy industry topics such as animal welfare, biosecurity, business operations, and environmental management.
East Knox Local School District, located in Howard, Ohio, is home to the East Knox FFA Chapter which supports student development through agricultural education and leadership opportunities. The chapter recognizes achievements such as American and State Degrees and is led by a 2024-2025 officer team including Dylan Springer as President and Hayden Baker as Vice President. The chapter also organizes events like fruit and strawberry sales to support its activities.
