The 2025–2026 California FFA State Officer Team spent the past year traveling the state, visiting chapters, advocating for agricultural education, and helping students grow as leaders. Their service made a lasting impact on thousands of members, and during the State Leadership Conference, each officer shared a retiring address—reflecting on their journey, lessons learned, and gratitude for those who supported them along the way.
Session Two
Sophia Camou, State Sentinel
Sophia reflected on her Basque heritage, Catholic faith, and year of service, sharing meaningful lessons about belonging and community. She encouraged members to create a welcoming environment within FFA where everyone feels valued and supported. She left the audience with a powerful reminder: “You are loved, you are enough, you are welcomed in.”
Session Three
Tessa Camacho, State Reporter
Tessa reflected on her year of service and encouraged members to embrace who they are and seek out a community that supports their authentic selves. Her message centered on letting go of expectations and choosing connection. She reminded members, “Set the rules aside. Be who you are. The only rule you should follow is to find friends who love you as you are—because you are enough.”
Session Four
Daren Deftereos, State Treasurer
Daren reflected on his journey of excellence and the importance of spreading light in others’ lives. Sharing the story of his former classmate Emily Carpenter and her organization, Golden Positivity, he emphasized perseverance through challenges. He reminded members, “What matters more than your circumstances is that you persevere through them,” and concluded his address with a performance of “Angels Among Us” by Alabama.
Session Five
Ryan Taylor, State Secretary
Ryan reflected on his year of service and encouraged members to look beyond the horizon, embrace growth, and prioritize self-worth. His message focused on the connection between ambition and self-acceptance. He shared, “In order for ambition to make you happy, you have to love yourself.”
Session Six
Noah Kamea Stanisai, State Vice President
Noah reflected on his year of service, sharing lessons on leadership, resilience, and hope. His message encouraged members to trust the process, even in difficult moments. He reminded members, “So when the waters are high, forgive, accept, and trust that even when we lose all hope, an olive branch will be there.”
Session Seven
Lily Vaughan, State President
Lily shared heartfelt reflections from her year of service, encouraging members to embrace leadership, pursue growth, and stay true to their purpose. Her message emphasized that impact is not about perfect timing, but about a willingness to step forward. She left members with meaningful words: “Impact doesn’t begin when you feel ready—it begins when you say yes.”
