Central Region, it is an honor and privilege to serve you this year as your 2009-2010 Regional President. My name is Collin Abraham, and I am from the Livingston FFA Chapter which is located in the heart of the Merced-Mariposa Section. I am currently 18 years old and have served on both Chapter and Sectional Officer Teams.

Growing up on a family farm in Livingston, in California’s Central Valley, I am very fortunate that I have had the opportunity to be a third generation agriculturist. My family farms 295 acres of almonds and grapes and I enjoy taking part in the operation and our livelihood as a farming family. We also have a family run dairy operation in Hilmar, which is how I got my start in showing dairy cattle and showing with my family across California and the United States. My journey with agriculture leadership started when I joined 4-H my fourth grade year. I enjoyed not only showing dairy cattle but, also taking part in the many leadership and speaking events as well as community service experiences that the organization had to offer. Upon entering High School, I made the step into FFA. As a freshman I became involved when elected Greenhand Vice-President and the FFA has been apart of my High School career ever since. I truly enjoy taking part in the countless leadership opportunities, conferences and the many other activities the organization has to offer. I have taken part in several Career Development Events including: BIG, Creed, Public Speaking, Dairy Cattle Evaluation and Light Horse Judging. As a student of Livingston High School I have enjoyed participating in CSF, playing on the Varsity Golf Team, being a member of Block L and the Purple Zoo.

A philosophy that I firmly believe in is, “It’s hard to beat someone who never gives up.” I apply this idea to everything I do because no matter how many times you fail you are still successful as long as you continue to learn from your mistakes and rise from your falls. Fellow members, I personally challenge each and everyone of you to start “Making an Impact, and Leaving a Legacy,” by never giving up or in to failure, because even if you do not finish first you never gave up, but rather chose to make a difference in world.

Vital Stats
Name: Collin Abraham
Age: 18
SAE: Dairy Cattle Entrepreneurship, Almond Production and Viticulture Production
CDE: Light Horse Judging
Goals: Make a difference in the world by inspiring others to higher standards so they can make an impact in the world.

Dream Job: Become a lobbyist for the USDA and help make a difference for the farmer.
Favorite Movie: Rudy
Favorite Song: The Auctioneer Song by Leroy Van Dyke
Favorite Sport: Golf
Hobbies: Spending time with family, friends and fishing.