For the first time in the history of Adair County, there are two high school state presidents: Trenton Page, Kentucky FFA president; and Natalie Bardin, Kentucky FBLA president. A reception was held on Friday to honor them and recognize their accomplishments.
Mayor Pamela Hoots kicked off the reception by thanking Page and Bardin for the honor they brought to our community. Superintendent Jason Faulkner told everyone, “There are 193 school districts in the state of Kentucky. Think of the shear odds of two students in consecutive years being named presidents of two large organizations and both of those students coming from Adair County. Even just saying that gives me chills.”
FFA Advisor Brittany Smith told the audience that the organization began in Adair County schools in 1940. There is a plaque in the high school that has accumulated only nine names in this 85-year span. Those names are of state officers from Adair County, with Page being the only one who has achieved the title of president.
Page has traveled all over the state in the last year representing not only FFA but Adair County.
“I would like to thank the community; there is none that are like ours. Adair County is the best county in the entire state,” Page said.
His mother, Stacey, said her son has a natural ability to communicate with others.
“I am extremely proud of Trenton. He’s a leader and thrives in the spotlight. He hasn’t written a single speech that he has ever given,” she said. “He is very humble and just wants to help the FFA organization. Trenton has such a love for this community and that’s what inspires him.”
Bardin has her support team, as well, and FBLA advisor J.R. Thompson is a proud member.
“I am so honored to be the advisor to the first ever state president for FBLA from Adair County,” he said. “In Kentucky, we have a delegation of over 10,000 in the state. To have reached this pinnacle is one that is not to be taken lightly. Natalie has achieved a great monumental victory, not only for herself, but she has brought great pride and recognition to our county.”
Bardin said earning the title of FBLA president is a dream come true.
“Day one of my freshman year, I said I want to be FBLA state president one day. I couldn’t run for state president as a sophomore, so I was patient, and I prayed about it. I ran for FBLA Region 2 president and I got it. This has not just been me, but it’s taken the whole community,” she said.
Natalie’s mother, Rachel Waggner, said her family is proud of her accomplishments.
“She is one determined young lady and we never had any doubt she could reach state level president once she set her mind to it,” her mother said. “She’s worked very hard to get here, but now that she’s been elected, the rubber meets the road. We can’t wait to watch her lead the state, lead by example, and help all the FBLA members reach their goals as well. We fully plan to support her any way we can.”
By Amy Pike
amy@adairvoice.com
