Hillsborough schools celebrate student achievements in JROTC and FFA ceremonies

Under the bright lights of the Hillsborough County Public Schools auditorium, a sense of pride filled the air as students from various schools gathered to celebrate their achievements. The Recognition Meeting held on May 13, 2025, showcased the remarkable accomplishments of students in the Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC), Future Farmers of America (FFA), Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), and the Technology Student Association (TSA).

The event kicked off with the JROTC segment, where students were honored for their dedication and leadership. Among the standout cadets was Hannah Owens from Brandon High School, who received accolades alongside her peers, including Colin Donnelly from Newsom High School and Marcus Furman from Robinson High School. Each student was supported by their school principals and instructors, creating a warm atmosphere of encouragement and celebration.

Following the JROTC recognition, the spotlight shifted to the FFA students, who were celebrated for their contributions to agriculture and leadership. Taryn Booty, Jada Diaz, and Marcus Tejada from Sickles High School were recognized for their national chapter award, while students from Randall Middle School, Sienna Palizzi and Katie Gunter, were acknowledged for their achievements in judging and evaluations.

The meeting continued with the FBLA segment, highlighting the accomplishments of students in business-related competitions. Notably, Lawrence Desrosier from Bloomingdale High School was recognized for his first-place win in the Hillsborough game jam, marking a significant moment as esports gained recognition within the school system. Other students from Walker Middle School and Hillsborough High School also received awards for their outstanding performances in various business competitions.

As the event progressed, the TSA students took the stage, with Middleton High School's team earning accolades for their first-place finish in Geospatial Technology. The support from their principal and teachers underscored the collaborative spirit that permeated the event.

This Recognition Meeting not only celebrated individual achievements but also highlighted the importance of community and support within Hillsborough County Public Schools. As students posed for group portraits with their awards, the sense of accomplishment was palpable, leaving attendees inspired and eager for future successes. The event served as a reminder of the dedication and hard work that students put into their pursuits, fostering a culture of excellence within the district.