By Sophia Barnum, Michigan FFA Foundation Intern
Addison Dahms is a 17-year-old student from the Ionia County Career Center whose passion for livestock production is rooted in hard work, perseverance and a lifelong love for animals. As a finalist for the Michigan FFA Star in Production Award, Addison has built a diverse and successful Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) raising and showing beef cattle and swine.
Addison’s love for animals began on her family’s beef cattle farm, where she spent countless hours helping with daily chores and learning the responsibilities that come with livestock ownership. Breeding and calving seasons quickly became her favorite times of the year, and over time, her passion for the livestock industry continued to grow. After showing beef cattle for five years, Addison expanded her SAE by starting a swine project. What began as a fun hobby at the county fair soon turned into a serious passion, resulting in numerous accomplishments, including two national champion banners.
Over the past 12 years, Addison has steadily increased both her beef cattle and swine herds. She is responsible for daily feeding, animal care and show preparation, developing strong animal husbandry skills that will serve her well into the future. Through these experiences, Addison has learned valuable life lessons about dedication, sacrifice and resilience. “FFA has made a difference in my life by making me a better person and making me a better leader,” she shared. She also credits her SAE with teaching her the importance of perseverance, saying, “You need to persevere even if something doesn’t go the way you want it to.”
Beyond caring for her own animals, Addison enjoys helping customers and sharing her knowledge to support their success as well. She encourages other FFA members to pursue what excites them most, offering this advice: “Find your passion and roll with it.” Addison notes that FFA and her SAE have directly influenced her future goals by increasing her love for animals and the livestock industry.
After graduation, Addison plans to attend Michigan State University to pursue a degree in animal science, with the goal of becoming a large animal veterinarian. The Michigan FFA Star in Production Award recognizes students who demonstrate excellence through hands-on agricultural production, and Addison exemplifies those qualities. She will be recognized as a finalist at the 98th Michigan FFA State Convention, March 4–6, 2026, on the campus of Michigan State University alongside fellow finalists Mariam Shupe from Laker and Carter VanAkin from Branch Area Career Center.
So, here’s to Addison Dahms, a powerful reminder of why supporting FFA and young agricultural leaders is so vital to the future of our industry. Please consider investing in the future of outstanding students like Addison by supporting the Michigan FFA Foundation.
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