The New York State FFA celebrated their 100th Anniversary at the New York State Fairgrounds in Syracuse on May 7 through 9. A new tradition honored 32 individuals for unwavering commitment to agricultural education including New Berlin resident Victoria Gregory. (Submitted photo)

SYRACUSE -The New York State FFA celebrated their 100th Anniversary at the New York State Fairgrounds in Syracuse on May 7 through 9.

Many local schools with FFA chapters attended with many honored with awards and degrees with more than 2,000 attending.

Commissioner of Agriculture Richard Ball and Governor Kathy Hochul took part in the ground breaking for the new FFA building on the fairgrounds.

A new tradition honoring individuals who unwavering commitment has shaped the landscaping of agricultural education and FFA in New York was held. The inaugural class of the NYS FFA and Agricultural Education recognized those who have gone above and beyond their dedication to FFA.

The H of F comprises six district categories: Foundation of our story; Pivotal Leadership,” which was presented to Commissioner Ball; Legacy Builder; Beacons of Excellence; Transformational Generosity; and Models of Possibility.

Victoria Gregory of New Berlin was one of the 32 inducted.

She has dedicated her life to strengthening NY agriculture, FFA and agricultural education through unwavering service, leade4rship and advocacy. Her influence spans generations, shaping students, schools and communities across the state.

A trailblazer in agricultural education, Vicky was among the first female members of the Afton FFA Chapter (1969-1970) and one of the first female FFA members from Afton to attend Camp Oswegatchie. She later became one of the first female Agriculture/FFA advisors, paving the way for future generations of young women in agricultural education.

Throughout her career, Vicky inspired excellence in her students. In 1979, she led Rochester City School students to Washington, DC, for the founding of the National Education Department and guided her FFA Chapter to a second place finish at Easton States. While teaching in Oxford, her students earned Tree City USA designation, restored the Oxford Park Gazebo, built gardens for veterans, and twice won the New York State Arbor Day competition. From 1987 to 2021, Vicky served as an Agriculture/FFA advisor at Afton Central School District, where she fostered a passion for agriculture and service. She established the Afton FFA Food Pantry, supported student scholarships, and helped create opportunities for students beyond the classroom.

Vicky’s leadership extends into the broader community. She founded the

Afton FFA Alumni and Supporters Chapter, sponsored student attendance at the State FFA Convention and held leadership roles with organizations such as the Unadilla Valley Community Scholarship Fund and New Berlin Rotary. Her deep commitment to service is reflected in her work with Catholic Charities, Habitat for Humanity, and numerous veterans’ initiatives.

New York FFA is stronger because of her vision, dedication, and leadership. Through decades of tireless service, she has empowered countless students to pursue careers in agriculture and leadership. It is with great pride that Vicky is recognized as an inductee into the New York FFA Hall of Fame for Transformational Generosity.

- Information from the Butternut Valley Grange