Poultry team places at national contest

The University of North Georgia (UNG) poultry judging team placed eighth at the National Collegiate Poultry Judging Contest held in November at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, Arkansas.

The contest allowed the students to test their knowledge of poultry products according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture standards and evaluate live poultry.

"I am so proud of each of these students for their hard work and determination at the contest," Dr. Linda Purvis, assistant professor of biology and poultry science, team coach and adviser, said. "It takes a lot of extra effort to practice and prepare to be a part of this contest, not to mention keeping their academics up while we are away for three days."

The team consisted of the following sophomores pursuing associate degrees:

Grace McClain pursuing a degree in agriculture.
Jacque Conner pursuing a degree in poultry science.
Asa Phillips pursuing a degree in poultry science.
Wyatt Chandler pursuing a degree in poultry science.

McClain placed in the top 25 individuals in the overall contest, landing the 18th spot out of more than 30 competitors in her division.

This year nine schools participated and featured 36 college students.

"These students excel in and out of the classroom in so many ways," Purvis said. "They are already preparing for the spring contest, and I know they will continue to do great things."