Feel Good Story: 50 Years Strong: The Legacy of the Tomball ISD FFA Project Show

Feel Good Story: 50 Years Strong: The Legacy of the Tomball ISD FFA Project Show

For 50 years, the Tomball ISD FFA Project Show has been more than a competition—it has been a tradition rooted in community, character, and countless life lessons learned along the way.

What began decades ago as a way for students to showcase their agricultural projects has grown into a hallmark event that brings together generations of students, families, educators, alumni, and community members. Each year, the Project Show highlights the dedication, responsibility, and leadership of Tomball ISD students as they raise animals, manage projects, and prepare to step confidently into the show ring—and into their futures.

The foundation of this legacy was built through the generosity and vision of the Tomball community. Early county support, FFA booster clubs, and local businesses rallied behind the program, believing strongly in agricultural education and the students it served. One of the most pivotal moments came when Humble Oil granted permission for the first Tomball FFA facility to be built on its land, a powerful example of community partnership and trust.

Following the very first Project Show, construction began in 1977, and by the 1978 show, the first Tomball FFA facility was fully operational. That barn became more than a structure—it became a home for learning, leadership, and tradition.

As participation increased and the program evolved, so did the facilities that supported it. In 1995, a new show barn was built at Tomball High School, reflecting the growing success of the Project Show. For nearly three decades, students from both Tomball High School and Tomball Memorial High School used that barn as the official show facility, sharing a space that united campuses and generations of FFA members until 2024.

The next chapter in the program’s history was made possible through overwhelming community support with the passage of Bond 2021. Thanks to that investment, the Tomball Agricultural Center at the Tomball Innovation Center was constructed, providing students with a state-of-the-art show barn. Now in its third year hosting the Project Show, the facility stands as a symbol of the community’s continued belief in agricultural education and student opportunity.

At the heart of the Project Show remains the unwavering support of the Tomball community. Longtime buyers—many of whom once wore the blue jacket themselves—return year after year, continuing a cycle of generosity that spans generations.

Tomball High School alumna, former FFA Project Show winner, and current Tomball Memorial High School agricultural science teacher Katie Lewandowski sees that impact from both sides of the ring.

“If it wasn’t for the people who live here and the support this community gives to the FFA program, it wouldn’t be as successful as it is,” Lewandowski said. “We have buyers who have been coming for years, and because of that continued support, we still have a very, very successful show.”

That investment has grown dramatically over time. In 1977, a Grand Champion steer earned $1,400, reflecting early community belief in the program. Today, support has reached historic levels, with record-breaking sales including a $37,000 steer and a $28,000 pig in 2023, followed by a $15,000 goat in 2024—milestones that highlight both student achievement and extraordinary generosity.

Tomball High School alumnus, former FFA Project Show winner, and current Tomball ISD school board member John McStravick says the impact of that support extends far beyond the show ring.

“Through the support of our community, we are able to help develop wonderful young individuals who will go on to make a difference in this world,” McStravick said. “Whether it’s through the Project Show, the skills students learn in the classroom, or our agricultural programs, I hope the community can see just how well their investment is paying off.”

Looking ahead, leaders say the future of the Tomball ISD FFA program is as strong as its foundation.

Bruce Hillegeist, Greater Tomball Area Chamber of Commerce President, Tomball High School alumnus, and former FFA Project Show winner, believes the program’s ability to evolve has been key to its longevity.

“The future of the Tomball FFA program looks very bright,” Hillegeist said. “I’ve seen the program change with the times, and that change is inevitable. The FFA program has embraced that, and I look forward to many more years of the Tomball FFA Project Show and Sale and the benefits it brings to our community.”

“Agriculture is the foundation of our community here in Tomball—and really of our nation,” he added. “We always have to remember where we came from to know where we’re going and to truly appreciate agriculture for what it is.”

Looking to the future, Tomball ISD FFA has set an ambitious goal: to raise $1 million through the Project Show in 2026—a milestone that reflects both the program’s momentum and the collective strength of a community that continues to invest in its students.

Through FFA, students gain far more than agricultural knowledge. They develop accountability, perseverance, and leadership skills that shape who they become long after the show ends.

As Tomball ISD celebrates 50 years of the FFA Project Show, this milestone honors the county partners, booster clubs, businesses, voters, alumni, educators, and community members who believed in the vision from the very beginning—and those who will carry it forward for generations to come.

Today, we celebrate 50 years strong—and still growing.