By Ashley Cecil, Meridian FFA Reporter

In an unprecedented move, the state nominating committee at last weekâs State Officer sifting  in Twin Falls, placed two Meridian FFA members in the top spots.  Current Meridian FFA senior Brett Wilder, and 2012 graduate Daniel Heikkila were placed in the President, and Vice-President spots.  While the Meridian Chapter has had members hold two state officers during the same term, it has never been the two top spots.

Twenty-eight members from around the state of Idaho vied for the six positions.  Other Meridian FFA members who went through the sifting process included Janine Johnson and Kristi Garland.  Sifting is done by a neutral nominating committee that cannot have members from applicants own chapters.  It is a rigorous, three day process that includes activities that show teamwork and leadership.

President-elect Brett Wilder says,  âOur job is to keep the passion for the blue and gold and serve our state to the best of our ability.â  Brett has been accepted to the University of Idaho for next year, where he will be pursuing a degree in Agricultural Economics.  He will balance that while serving as the 2013-14 State FFA President.   Brett is the son of Steve and Laura Wilder of Meridian.

 âIt  is now our job to influence members and non-members to enjoy and make the most of their high school years, think about their futures and get prepared,â says Vice-President Elect Daniel Heikkila.  Daniel is currently a student at Idaho State University where he is studying Sports Med.  Daniel is the son of Alan and Gaye Heikkila of Meridian.