Another outstanding local FFA student was brought to my attention.

Ashleigh Dunn, a graduate of Santa Rosa High last spring who is now attending Santa Rosa Junior College, was named a national finalist in the Equine Science – Placement Proficiency award and finished second place overall at the national competition last month in Indianapolis.

Proficiency Awards recognize FFA members who excelled as agricultural entrepreneurs, employees or volunteers while they gained hands-on career experience, according to the FFA.

Dunn received a plaque and $500.

Dunn developed a love of horses after volunteering with the Pony Express program at Howarth Park. She then worked at a local horse ranch where she was able to learn more about horses and teach children to ride.

Dunn’s FFA advisors are Judy Aschwanden and Lisa Piehl.