Rusk T-Shirt Contest Continues to Thrive
Tuesday, July 7, 2026 | Author: Hayden Luft, Ira FFA
“Living to Serve” took on a creative twist as the Rusk FFA chapter hosted the Fourth Annual T-shirt Design Contest and sale in conjunction with the Texas FFA Convention.
“The idea was cultivated out of the desire to give back to the community,” Rusk FFA advisor Madison Dunn said.
The winning chapter receives a $1,000 scholarship and the opportunity to have its design worn by FFA members across the state. One hundred percent of the profits from the service project benefit Texas FFA and the Agriculture Teachers Association of Texas scholarship programs.
As of Tuesday, July 7, this year's effort had raised more than $4,311.50, with 885 T-shirts preordered before convention.
When the contest first began, Rusk FFA member Karen Dyess shared her hope that it would become an annual tradition, allowing members to showcase their artistic talents while creating new opportunities within the FFA.
This year, 13 designs were submitted by chapters from across Texas. Rusk FFA member Wesley Marti shared that the chapter's advisors narrowed the entries to the top designs before the Texas FFA state officers selected the winning artwork.
This year's winning design was created by Emma Arredondo of Hereford FFA.
“I like to draw, and my chapter encouraged me to do this. I'm so grateful I did,” Arredondo said.
In addition to the proceeds supporting agricultural education, the t-shirt screen printer, Dunkerley Design, donated additional proceeds to the Texas FFA Foundation by funding two $1,000 proficiency award scholarships.
“Service means doing things for others, not being selfish to yourself and just really putting yourself out there,” Arredondo said.
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