Jason Ferreira (second from right).
Every once in a blue moon, an individual comes along who is so passionately dedicated to their craft that their impact spans multiple generations. They are like wells, storing knowledge and enthusiasm in every nook and cranny of their soul.
Jason Ferreira, lovingly known to his students as “Mr. Ferreira,” is the Hanford FFA Chapter’s well. As an agriculture teacher in the Hanford agriculture department in California, he holds the weight of experience and knowledge when it comes to all things FFA. He passes this on to all his students with equal fervor, pushing Hanford FFA members to the frontlines of leadership in agriculture.
He coaches the chapter’s prepared speaking, extemporaneous speaking and job interview teams. Furthermore, he coaches the Opening and Closing Ceremonies teams and the water quality competition team. Ferreira also had the privilege of serving a few terms as the Tulare Kings Sectional advisor. He truly is one of the Hanford FFA Chapter’s busiest bees.
Ferreira has a profound impact on all the students he meets. Whether it’s pushing peers to do speaking teams or “voluntelling” students to compete, he’s always happy to share from his well of seemingly infinite agricultural knowledge. Ferreira never allows any kid to give up; he makes every student embody his motto, which is “Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.”
His efforts do not go unnoticed or without effect. Ms. Benavidas, an agriculture teacher and Hanford FFA advisor, is one of Ferreiras’ former students. His passion allows him to have a continuous and lasting legacy, bringing alumni back to serve Hanford FFA and the agricultural community.
In 2023, Ferreira won the Golden Owl Award, being celebrated for his contributions to California FFA. He will continue to serve as a role model to students in the community and advance agricultural education. He is not only living to serve, but striving to inspire.
