Vanessa Stitzlein (right) watched her younger sister, Sophia Stitzlein (left), pursue new opportunities through FFA. Photo courtesy of Vanessa Stitzlein.
For West Holmes FFA member Sophia Stitzlein, achieving a goal at the 2025 Ohio FFA State Convention represents more than hard work coming to fruition — it’s also a testament to the National FFA Organization’s commitment to belonging and engagement.
“Sophia was born with Down syndrome, and watching her thrive in FFA is nothing short of inspiring,” says her sister, Vanessa Stitzlein. “From chapter meetings to community involvement, she’s embraced every opportunity the organization offers.”
As the youngest of four siblings, Sophia Stitzlein grew up surrounded by agriculture and FFA on her family’s beef cattle and grain farm. Her other sister, Madison Stitzlein, was actively involved in the West Holmes FFA Chapter throughout high school and served as its vice president. Although the sisters were never in the program at the same time, Madison Stitzlein’s leadership inspired Sophia Stitzlein and helped her form a relationship with advisor Jamie Chenevey before becoming a member.
“Jamie and the chapter members make sure Sophia feels included in all the events,” Vanessa Stitzlein says. “They are supportive and always encouraging.”
Sophia Stitzlein attends chapter meetings, volunteers at events, participates in farm tours and shows livestock — including pigs, steers and sheep — at the county fair. One of the highlights for her each year is attending the state convention. During the event, her peers make sure she always has a buddy, capture photos of fun events and offer suggestions on which sessions to attend.
“They treat her like any other student by showing respect, kindness and focusing on her as a person rather than on her special needs,” Vanessa Stitzlein says.
Sophia Stitzlein’s Supervised Agricultural Experience includes raising and showing cattle. Photo courtesy of Vanessa Stitzlein.
When it came time to pursue a Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE), Sophia chose to use her experience managing the herd of cattle she owns on the family farm. She kept the herd’s records, tracked daily chores completed and detailed various aspects of owning livestock.
To help her succeed, Chenevey provided step-by-step instructions, breaking the process into smaller steps, and patiently created extra time when needed. Sophia’s peers also checked in on her progress and encouraged her along the way.
“FFA has given her a place to grow and be proud of herself,” Vanessa Stitzlein says. “It’s also given her a chance to meet people she may not have met in school and form really special friendships.”
