I'm Corinne Santos, a member of the Oakdale community and the Riverbank Market Manager at F&M Bank. As a proud Hereford beef cattle breeder, my mom, Susan, and I relocated our ranch to Oakdale two years ago, drawn by its Western lifestyle and strong community spirit. This move has allowed me to dedicate more of my time to agriculture, a true passion of mine.

On May 15th, I presented two scholarship awards at the Oakdale FFA Chapter’s Annual Awards Banquet. The evening celebrated Oakdale FFA's successful year and the senior FFA students as they move on to their next adventures. With 470 members, Oakdale FFA focuses on livestock programs, veterinary science, agriculture marketing, public speaking, and leadership. Various non-animal segments include soil science, agricultural mechanics, farm power (equipment), small engines, floriculture, and public speaking competitions. Many of these segments provide students with life skills they will forever carry.  

The banquet recognized the retiring 2023-2024 FFA officer team: President Enrique Lopez, Vice President Jenna Sanders, Secretary Kate Brown, Treasurer Cailee Flood, Reporter Kyla Garcia, Sentinel Hayley Kuppens, Second Vice President Grant Gardner, POA Chairs James Titus, Tessa Cunningham, and Samantha Powell, Activities Director Maryn Ludlow, and Historian Breanna Crowder. The 2024-2025 FFA officer team was announced and installed: President Cailee Flood, Vice President Hayley Kuppens, Secretary Breanna Crowder, Treasurer Kyla Garcia, Reporter James Titus, and Sentinel Maryn Ludlow.

As I reflect on my journey, I am filled with profound gratitude for how FFA has shaped me, personally and professionally. It's not just about the skills and knowledge I've acquired but the transformative experiences that have sculpted me into who I am today. FFA is a beacon of inspiration, guiding young individuals to become the best versions of themselves.

Oakdale FFA will proudly participate in the Stanislaus County Fair from July 5 to 14. Your support is invaluable to us and to the success of this event. For information and the 10-day schedule, visit www.stancofair.com. We look forward to seeing you there!