Environment sophomore, was elected FFA Eastern Region vice president at the organization’s recent national conference in Indianapolis.

The Harrison County native, who is majoring in agricultural education with a minor in agricultural economics, will take a year off from her studies to fulfill the responsibilities of her new position. The Eastern Region comprises 18 states that stretch from Kentucky to Maine. Furnish is among six officers who will lead the national organization in the coming year. FFA is the largest youth organization in the United States.

As an ambassador for FFA, the college and the agriculture industry in general, Furnish’s responsibilities will include attending state and national FFA functions and working with sponsors, policymakers and agricultural industry leaders.

“I’m super excited. I’ll get to do a lot of traveling and visit with lots of amazing people,” Furnish said.

She will visit Japan in January for an international experience, just one trip out of the 300 days she will be on the road.

“As an FFA kid myself, I know being elected a national FFA officer is a high honor that very few members achieve,” said Commissioner Ryan Quarles in a news release from the Kentucky Department of Agriculture. “Congratulations to Gracie, and best wishes on her term as FFA Eastern Region vice president.”

Furnish is looking forward to her year in office.

“I’ve always been so passionate about agriculture and agricultural education. Anything I can do to advocate for that is important to me. This is an amazing opportunity to get to do that,” she said. “I know how big of an impact FFA has had on my life. I have found a place to grow and be challenged and also succeed, and I want to be able to offer that to other people as well.”

A Send-Off Celebration for Furnish is planned for 6 to 7:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 13 at the Hilary J. Boone Center, 500 Rose St., Lexington. No reservations are necessary.