Hill College Students Earn 2026 American FFA Degrees

  Ashlee Ferguson
  Monday, November 2, 2026 10:11 AM
  Student Activities, Academics

Hillsboro, TX

For the second year in a row, two Hill College students, Ashlynn Martinolich and Travis McBride, have earned the 2026 American FFA Degree, the highest honor awarded by the National FFA Organization. The recognition celebrates their dedication to agricultural education, leadership, and hands-on experience in their respective fields. 

Martinolich, from Italy, TX, is a second-year agriculture student who has also assisted as a work-study in the welding program. McBride, from Arizona, was in the agricultural program last year and is currently working towards an automotive degree at Hill College as well as being on the Rodeo team. Their achievements reflect the diverse educational and career pathways available to students at Hill College. 

The American FFA Degree recognizes members who demonstrate outstanding commitment to their FFA chapters and state FFA associations. To qualify, members must meet several requirements, including maintaining active FFA membership, completing agricultural education coursework, operating a successful supervised agricultural experience program, demonstrating community service and academic achievement, and earning their State FFA Degree. Applicants are reviewed by National FFA staff before approval by the National FFA Board of Directors. 

“It is an honor to have such esteemed students at Hill College,” said Paul Brown, Agriculture Program Coordinator and Instructor. “These agriculture students are preparing to lead future generations and are giving me the opportunity to help expand their knowledge in this area.” 

Earning the American FFA Degree represents years of dedication, leadership, and practical experience. Hill College congratulates Martinolich and McBride on this significant accomplishment and celebrates their continued pursuit of educational and career goals. 

For more information about Hill College’s Agricultural Program, visit the Business & Industry Pathway at hillcollege.edu/bandi or contact Agricultural Program Coordinator and Instructor Paul Brown at pdbrown@hillcollege.edu.