Just before the Wylie Show and Sale Parade of Champions and Live Auction kicked off March 25, the F.O. Birmingham Agriculture Center was honored with a rededication ceremony.

Due to extenuating circumstances, there was not an opportunity to dedicate the building when it first opened, which was the reason for the event.

“We are certainly excited about the future of Ag in Wylie and Wylie ISD, but today, as we look ahead, let’s also pay tribute to the past and the contributions made to our program,” Wylie ISD Deputy Superintendent Dr. Kim Spicer said.

To help celebrate, the day was “set in stone.”

Uncovering the dedication plaque to reveal the bronze tribute were WHS FFA President Shelby Smercina and WEHS FFA President Rylie Reed.

Ag Center coordinator Ken Nicholson and the advanced practicum students landscaped the front portion of the Birmingham Ag Center, where the dedication plaque was placed.

“This facility that was a dream at one time, has turned into a reality,” Jason Hudson, Director of Career and Technical Education, said.

To commemorate the occasion, speakers discussed the contributions that agriculture has had in Wylie.

“We wanted to ensure we took the time to thank the many, many people who have made Wylie ag into what it is today,” Dr. Spicer said.

Wylie Mayor Matthew Porter, also a board member for the Birmingham Land Trust, discussed the many values agriculture instills in children and teenagers. He doted on how ag provides a unique opportunity for students to succeed and excel.

“Our Ag program participation has also exploded over the years – one we likely would not have been able to sustain without the generosity of the Birmingham Trust and the volunteers who so unselfishly gave their time to our ag program more than 30 years ago,” Dr. Spicer said.

The Birmingham Ag Center exceeds more than 36 acres and can house hundreds of animals.

“It serves as a point of pride in our community, hosting events such as the Wylie Show & Sale and the Wylie Rodeo,” Dr. Spicer said.

There have been a lot of changes over the years, but agriculture in Wylie continues to promote family and community and instill the values of character and integrity in students.

“There is a strong sense of family and community in ag, and our kids are reaping that benefit and growing into fantastic young people,” Wylie ISD School Board President Stacie Smith said as the ceremony concluded.