As the sixth General Session of the Indiana FFA Convention neared its end Thursday evening, FFA members had the chance to go “stargazing,” as Indiana FFA state officers Caden Sixberry and Carson Rudd explained.

Rather, they were introduced to this year’s Stars Over Indiana state finalists and winners. These individuals are recognized for their dedication to agricultural jobs, businesses and projects. Categories include Star in Agriscience, Star Farmer, Star in Agribusiness and Star in Agricultural Placement. The finalists all completed applications, worked through an interview process and welcomed a site visit prior to the announcement of winners.

These members have spent many hours working on their projects, expanding their knowledge, improving their skills and sharing what they’ve learned with others. The winners will receive a $250 scholarship on behalf of the Jeff Lehman Family. Here are the winners:

Star in Agriscience. In addition to serving as the southern region vice president this year for Indiana FFA, Blaine Wagner of the North Decatur FFA chapter is this year’s Star in Agriscience. His most recent project focuses on studying the multiple methods of carbon sequestration. He wants to help farmers understand which practices are most effective at capturing carbon in this uncharted territory. Wagner’s parents are Cody and Holly Wagner.

Star Farmer. Hailing from the North Miami FFA chapter, Owen Night won the title of Star Farmer. Having grown up on a farm, Night always knew he wanted to raise his own livestock. He began purchasing young Holstein calves and raising them up to about 500 pounds before selling them to a finisher. Night strives to keep expanding his knowledge and skills to produce a high-quality product. His parents are Michael and Cori Night.

EARLY PLANS: From the time Owen Night could walk and help his parents around the farm, he decided he would care for his own livestock someday. The Star Farmer is pictured with North Miami FFA Advisor Jim Wildermuth.

Star in Agribusiness. Fixing things is Grant Lake’s specialty. Hailing from the Central Noble FFA chapter, Lake kick-started his own tractor repair business after he tried his hand at restoring a tractor with his dad and brother. He enjoys fixing up old farm tractors, and his work quickly gained attention and catapulted his business. Whether it’s in his shop or on the go, Lake can do it all — from simple maintenance to complete engine rebuilds. Lake’s parents are Chris and Sara Lake.

STARTING SMALL: Grant Lake discovered his passion for fixing up tractors when he helped his dad and brother repair an old tractor. That one tractor quickly turned to three, and before he knew it, his work was being noticed. The Star in Agribusiness is pictured with Central Noble FFA Advisor Jamie Earnhart.

Star in Agricultural Placement. Josie Kelsay of the Whiteland FFA chapter is following in her family’s footsteps of educating visitors to their farm about agriculture. Thousands of people pass through Kelsay Farms each year, and Kelsay works to prepare for seasonal tours and care for the livestock on display. Teaching others about modern agriculture is Kelsay’s passion, as she plans to pursue a career as an ag teacher someday. Her parents are Joe and Amy Kelsay.

A LEGACY: Josie Kelsay is the next generation in her family’s legacy of using their farm to educate visitors about modern agriculture, showing them how their food is produced. Whiteland FFA advisors Katie Ott and Hannah Goeb join Kelsay, this year’s Star in Agricultural Placement.