By Karla McArthur, Correspondent
GASTON, AL — Gaston High School sophomore Josie Gordon is making her mark both in and out of the classroom.
Gordon, a 10th-grade student ranked in the top 10 percent of her class with a 4.1 GPA, recently competed in the FFA Public Speaking Competition, an event that challenges members to research an agricultural topic and deliver a prepared speech before a panel of judges.
Participants in the competition are evaluated on their knowledge of the subject matter, speaking ability, organization and skill in answering judges’ questions. The event is designed to help students build confidence, communication skills and leadership abilities.
Gordon said she was motivated to compete because it combined her passion for agriculture with opportunities for personal growth.
“I knew the prepared public speaking competition would give me the opportunity to pursue my passion for agriculture while improving my communication and leadership skills,” Gordon said. “Public speaking helps me become more confident in expressing my ideas and advocating for issues that matter to me, especially in the agricultural industry.”
She said the competition pushed her outside of her comfort zone and strengthened skills she plans to use in college and her future career, including critical thinking and responding to questions on the spot.
Gordon is an active member of her school community. She participates in Beta Club, FFA, FBLA, Key Club, FCCLA, Peer Helpers, Bigs and Littles and First Priority. She also helped found her school’s youth First Priority group. In addition, she serves as her class Student Government Association representative and plays varsity basketball and volleyball.
Gordon credited her parents, Jeannie and Jason Gordon, and her boyfriend, Maddox, for their constant encouragement while she prepared her seven-minute speech.
“They let me read it to them about 70 times without ever complaining and showed nothing but belief in me and my ability,” she said.
She also expressed gratitude for her FFA adviser, Mr. Wesley Heath, whom she described as a steady mentor throughout the process.
“He reminded me that I could do this and always made sure I knew I could go to him when I needed help,” Gordon said.
Beyond competition results, Gordon said the experience helped her grow in confidence, discipline and courage. She said the support of advisers, judges and fellow competitors inspired her and strengthened her commitment to agriculture and leadership.
“Being part of FFA at my school is such an exciting experience,” Gordon said. “I’m truly grateful to represent my chapter and the organization, and I plan to compete every year I can.”
Gordon added that her faith played an important role in the journey, giving her peace and perseverance when she faced self-doubt.
She said she looks forward to continuing to grow through FFA and using her voice to advocate for the agricultural community.
