Allyson Peters Lewis, a dedicated agricultural educator from Jane Lew, WV, has been selected to receive the Honorary American FFA Degree at the 97th National FFA Convention & Expo in Indianapolis. This prestigious award is given to individuals who have made outstanding personal commitments to advancing agricultural education and the FFA.
The National FFA Organization strives to improve the lives of youth through agricultural education, and the impact of dedicated individuals like Mrs. Lewis is immeasurable. Through her exceptional efforts, she has ensured that thousands of young people achieve success, contributing significantly to the nation’s overall well-being. The Honorary American FFA Degree recognizes those who have gone beyond daily contributions to make an extraordinary long-term impact on the lives of students, inspiring confidence in a new generation of agriculturists.
Mrs. Lewis, who has been teaching Agriculture for over a decade, will be honored during an onstage ceremony on Friday, October 25. She will receive a plaque and medal, and her name will be permanently recorded among other distinguished recipients of this exceptional honor.
Reflecting on her journey, Allyson expressed her deep gratitude to her husband, Brady Lewis, parents Tonya Peters and the late John “Mike” Peters, and several mentors who have been instrumental in her success.
“I would like to thank my agriculture teacher, Mr. Ken Skidmore of Sutton. He knew I was going to be an agriculture teacher before I did and provided opportunities for me to explore the career field while in high school,” she shared. “Mr. John Bennett of Glenville was the teacher, FFA Advisor and father figure my dad needed and worked with me to earn my State and American FFA Degree. I am also thankful to Mr. Jason Hughes of Ravenswood for his unwavering support and guidance as an educator and in life. Lastly, Mrs. Sally Ann Hinterer of New Milton for being a role model as an educator and agriculturalist.”
Allyson’s passion for agricultural education is evident through her extensive work both inside and outside the classroom. She currently serves as a National Teacher Ambassador for the National FFA Organization and as the President of the West Virginia Association of Agricultural Educators. A proud graduate of West Virginia University, Allyson holds both a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture Education and a Master’s degree in Agriculture.
In addition to her teaching responsibilities at Buckhannon-Upshur High School, Allyson has been a successful securing funding for innovative technology and practical agricultural facilities for her students.
“Without my fellow agriculture teachers, I would struggle to have the success and joy in my career, I really cannot thank them enough,” Lewis expresses. Her favorite part of teaching is providing students with new opportunities and experiences. Throughout her tenure, she has had the privilege of mentoring and coaching students as they develop into confident young adults, many of whom have earned state and national recognition.
