What began as a modest program restart in 2018 reached its proudest moment to date on Thursday, May 15, as the Okmulgee FFA chapter gathered for its annual banquet to celebrate a season of incredible accomplishments – including a night of firsts that will be forever remembered in the chapter’s history.
The 2025 Okmulgee FFA Banquet was more than an end-of-year tradition. It was a reflection of just how far the chapter has come in seven years and an opportunity to publicly recognize the hard work, vision and leadership that helped the group make state history at the 99th Oklahoma FFA State Convention earlier this month.
— A Night to Remember at State Convention The banquet followed on the heels of a truly historic appearance at the state convention, where Okmulgee FFA members were recognized on the biggest stage in Oklahoma agricultural education.
Two Okmulgee FFA students Jazmyne McDaniel and LeAundre Delonia – earned the prestigious Oklahoma State FFA Degree, the highest honor granted by the Oklahoma FFA Association. This rare achievement is reserved for students who demonstrate exceptional commitment through Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) programs, leadership activities and community service.
“These degrees are not handed out lightly,” noted FFA advisor Tim Taylor. “It takes years of dedication and sacrifice. I couldn’t be prouder of Jazmyne and LeAundre. Their achievements represent the very best of what FFA stands for.”
And just when it seemed the moment couldn’t be topped, the Okmulgee section of the convention floor erupted in cheers when it was announced that LeAundre Delonia had been elected as the 2025–2026 Northeast Area Vice President of the Oklahoma FFA State Association.
The announcement began, “From the Okmulgee FFA chapter…” – and as Taylor put it, “We don’t think anyone heard anything being said on stage after that. The place exploded.”
Delonia’s election marks a generational achievement for Okmulgee FFA. He becomes only the third student from the chapter to serve as a state officer and the first in over 50 years.
— A Legacy of Leadership
With Delonia’s election, the chapter joins a short but proud list of state-level FFA leaders to hail from Okmulgee:
• Bill Bearden, Jr., Reporter (197374)
• Randy Ray, Reporter (1974-75)
• LeAundre Delonia, Northeast Area Vice President (2025-26) “This isn’t just a personal win,” Taylor said. “It’s a milestone for our entire community. From 2018 to now – from restarting the program to electing a state officer – this chapter has come full circle.”
Delonia’s journey has inspired younger members to reach for similar heights, showing what’s possible with hard work, faith and community behind you.
— Honoring the Journey
The banquet at the Okmulgee County Fairgrounds was filled with emotion and gratitude, as the chapter took time to reflect on the road that led them here. The collective effort it took to reach this level of success was highlighted.
Parents, teachers, alumni and mentors have all played a part in shaping these young leaders. This is what FFA is all about – servant leadership, lifelong learning and lifting each other up.
Since 2018, Okmulgee FFA has grown steadily – and the 2025 banquet made it clear the program is only gaining momentum.
For a chapter that was nonexistent less than a decade ago, Okmulgee FFA’s accomplishments in 2025 are nothing short of remarkable. But to Taylor and the students, it’s about more than awards – it’s about character, commitment and community.
And in every way, those values were on full display at the May 15 banquet.
From the heartfelt thanks to the thunderous applause, from the humble speeches to the hopeful glances toward the future, the message was clear: History wasn’t made by chance – it was made in blue and gold.
— Statement on Behalf of Okmulgee Public Schools
As we reflect on another unforgettable year with the Okmulgee FFA, we want to take a moment to express our deepest appreciation and gratitude to one of the most dedicated educators we’ve had the privilege of working alongside – Mr. Tim Taylor.
This year’s banquet marked not only the end of a chapter for our graduating seniors but also the end of an era with Mr. Taylor’s departure. It’s difficult to put into words the impact he has had on our students, our school and our entire community.
For years, Mr. Taylor has been more than just an ag instructor – he has been a mentor, a role model and a true advocate for our students. His commitment to shaping young lives through education, leadership and passion for agriculture has been nothing short of inspiring. Under his guidance, Okmulgee FFA has thrived, reaching new heights and achieving incredible milestones. From championship titles to community service projects that made a real difference, Mr. Taylor’s leadership has been instrumental in every success.
But beyond the awards and accolades, Mr. Taylor has created a family within the FFA. He’s shown each student that they matter, that their hard work counts and that they have the power to shape their futures. His belief in them has helped build not just leaders, but confident young people ready to face any challenge.
To the Okmulgee FFA seniors, we celebrate all of you, too – your hard work, perseverance and achievements have been incredible. While we’ll miss seeing you in the classroom and at events, we know that Mr. Taylor’s lessons will continue to resonate with you as you take the next steps in life.
Thank you, Mr. Taylor, for your years of service, unwavering dedication to our students and for leaving an indelible mark on Okmulgee FFA. We wish you nothing but the best in all your future endeavors. Your legacy here will live on, and you’ll always be a part of the Okmulgee family.
— Congrats, OHS Class of 2025!
From Okmulgee FFA Advisors Tim Taylor, Angela Johnson and Britni Stewart: “Congratulations to our FFA seniors … You guys have spent the last five years showing us what servant leadership looks like, setting new traditions and raising the bar for future FFA members to follow! You’re always welcome back as alumni members and we wish you the very very best on your next adventure!”
