
But then it is important for some people to make an exit, to get down and walk the paths they were destined to ……..”
― Chirag Tulsiani
In 2001, a young FFA member from Caribou, Maine boarded a van and traveled south to Croghan NY to attend a leadership conference for State FFA Officers. At that time we did not know that a seed had been sown that would germinate, grow, and develop into a tremendous asset for the New York FFA and the Oswegatchie Educational Center. After 13 summers, and 6 ½ years of full time service, Jamie Thibodeau has accepted a position as a ropes course builder for the High Five Adventure Learning organization in Brattleboro, VT. While we will miss Jamie, we are thrilled that he has an opportunity to grow and develop his skills, and better position his family for the future. This relocation brings both Jamie and Amber closer to family, whom are very important to them. His last day with us will be March 29th.
While at Oswegatchie, Jamie has helped to grow and develop our programs. As our TEAM Challenge director he has overseen many improvements and advancements in the ropes course, quickly learning and applying many skills that have made our TEAM Challenge programs one the best in NYS. He has also been our lead in maple operations, overseeing the installation of a new evaporator, the expansion of maple lines, and the coordination of the FFA maple CDE for several years. Additionally his skills have contributed to the overall maintenance of Oswegatchie in the off season, the development of new program offerings such as the Hunter Safety course, and so many other skills too numerous to list. Mostly we will miss his spirit of cooperation, team work, and initiative.
Oswegatchie will forever be a better place due to the outstanding efforts of the Thibodeau family. They will always be a part of our NY FFA family. Their impacts are indelible in countless ways. Thank you for jumping on the bus; for being a part of our history, shaping our culture, and giving of yourselves in so many ways. On behalf of the Oswegatchie team and the board of directors of the NY FFA Leadership Training Foundation, Inc., I wish both Jamie and Amber a future full of opportunities and great success.
With kind regards,
Todd M. Lighthall, Executive Director
NY FFA Foundation, Inc.
Engaging Youth in Agricultural & Career Success
315-346-1222
9340 Long Pond Rd.
Croghan, NY 13327
www.nyffafoundation.org