In the heart of Michigan, amidst fields of row crops, a 17-year-old scientist named Alexis Ewing is not merely cultivating crops—she’s cultivating a future. Alexis, a high school senior at Jonesville High School, has spent the last four years immersing herself in the intricate world of FFA, leaving an indelible mark through her research projects that redefine the boundaries of agriscience.

From her freshman year, Alexis has been a force to be reckoned with, guided by the steady hand of her FFA Advisors, Kim Salsbury and Abigail Stubbins. It was in an Ag Biology class that Alexis’s journey took a profound turn, encouraged to delve deeper into the projects undertaken in class and analyze them on a scientific level.

What followed was a remarkable four-year foray into plant system research. Alexis embarked on four distinct projects exploring aquaponics, hydroponics and microplastics, each culminating in a top 10 placement at the Agriscience Fair during the National FFA Convention. Her insatiable curiosity and relentless pursuit of excellence set her apart from the crowd, establishing her as a beacon of inspiration within the FFA community.

“I have taught Alexis for just over a year now. In this year alone I have watched her become such a strong leader and watched her determination shine,” attests FFA Advisor Abigail Stubbins. “There are ups and downs in everyone’s journey, but she overcome those hard times and came out on top due to her determination. FFA allowed her to harness her passion and put it towards a good use and allowed her to gain skills that will assist her well beyond high school.”

This year, Alexis’s ambitions show no signs of slowing down as she sets her sights on a groundbreaking research project in aeroponics. Her plan is nothing short of audacious—cultivating carrots, potatoes and radishes using this innovative system.

But Alexis’s journey is not just about her own accomplishments; it symbolizes the spirit of FFA, where hard work, dedication and a passion for agriscience converge to shape the leaders of tomorrow. As she stands on the verge of another milestone—the Michigan FFA Star in Agriscience Award—Alexis represents the epitome of the exceptional students FFA helps mold.

“FFA has impacted my life in so many ways. It has helped me grow my passion for agriculture, build leadership skills and introduced me to some of my best friends,” Alexis shares. “The number one thing FFA has taught me is that anything can be achieved through hard work and dedication.”

Alongside Larkin Scharenbroch of the Ravenna FFA Chapter, Alexis has been named a finalist for this prestigious award, showcasing the remarkable talent and dedication within the FFA community.

So, as we celebrate Alexis’s groundbreaking research and commendable achievements, let us also celebrate the broader FFA community—the unsung heroes working tirelessly to forge a path forward in the agricultural landscape. In Alexis’s story, we find not just a narrative of triumph but an inspiration for all those who dare to dream, innovate and redefine the possibilities of agriscience.

Congratulations, Alexis Ewing, for being the torchbearer of a brighter, more innovative future for agriculture.

To support outstanding students like Alexis, consider supporting the Michigan FFA Foundation.