National FFA Organization

During a chapter officer retreat in September 2022, a seemingly small moment sparked a big idea for the Felicity-Franklin FFA Chapter. When their president had a flat tire and didn't know how to handle it, it led to a conversation among officers about the real-world skills they and their peers might be lacking. This discussion turned into "Survivor Week: Creating Capable Cardinals", a school-wide event that aimed to teach valuable life skills. Read the full story and discover how FFA chapters are making a lasting impact in their communities. ?? https://ffa.pub/4ivFRh9 #FFALeaders #RealWorldSkills #SurvivorWeek #AgEducation #LeadershipInAction

Congratulations to the Savannah FFA Chapter in Missouri for winning first place at the 2024 Missouri State FFA Convention for the second year in a row! The team’s innovative proposal for a mobile educational bus, complete with mini-laboratories, cooking demonstrations, and VR simulations to teach about the soybean industry, has now come to life. You can read their full plan below. ?? https://ffa.pub/3D99mpN #FFASuccess #AgEducation #SoybeanIndustry #FFA #NationalFFA

Get to know Aaron Wetzel, Chair of the National FFA Sponsors’ Board! As Sponsors’ Board Chair, Aaron brings valuable leadership and insight to help guide our organization's future. Their dedication to agricultural education and the support of our members make a lasting impact. Here is what Aaron had to say about his involvement in shaping our future leaders: ??What inspired you to take on the role of Chair of the Sponsors’ Board, and what do you hope to accomplish? "My inspiration comes from a deep passion for agriculture and a desire to make a meaningful impact on the future of the industry. I believe in the power of education and mentorship to shape the next generation of leaders. I hope to accomplish several key objectives, including fostering a supportive environment for students, promoting leadership development, and ensuring that the organization continues to provide valuable opportunities for personal and professional growth. Most importantly, I want to encourage students to build comfort with technology solutions and see how technology can add value to their work and life. And, lastly, work together with the team to develop programming within FFA that supports career alternatives beyond the typical college-bound path, showcasing entrepreneurship opportunities through the new Venture Fund, and highlighting SAE (Supervised Agricultural Experience) successes that have become businesses." ??What excites you most about the future of the National FFA, and how do you see it evolving in the next few years? "I am most excited about the potential for growth and innovation within the organization, especially for the technological advancements to revolutionize the agriculture industry. The integration of technology in agriculture education can open up new possibilities for students and help them see the value it can add to their work and life. The National FFA has a strong foundation, and I see it continuing to expand its reach and impact. In the next few years, I see the National FFA evolving to offer even more diverse programs and opportunities for students, strengthening its partnerships with industry leaders, and continuing to adapt to the changing needs of the agricultural community." ??What is one piece of advice you would give to someone looking to make an impact in the agriculture industry? "Always be open to learning and exploring new ideas, while continuing to embrace innovation and new technologies. The agriculture industry is rapidly evolving, and those who are willing to adapt and leverage technology will be at the forefront of change. Seek out ways to make a positive impact in your community and the industry as a whole, whether through innovative projects, leadership roles, or community involvement that allow you to stay connected to your roots."

Today, the USDA announced Dr. Jaye L. Hamby as the new Director of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). A former national FFA officer (bottom right), Jaye Hamby's lifelong dedication to agriculture—from growing up on his family’s farm to leading groundbreaking research—has shaped the industry and will continue to inspire the next generation of leaders. At the National FFA Organization, we are grateful to be part of the mission to cultivate the future of agriculture. We look forward to seeing Dr. Hamby’s leadership drive innovation, education, and opportunity for students across the country. Join us in congratulating Dr. Hamby on this well-deserved appointment! ?? https://lnkd.in/g4cTKVmZ

Meet Lily Sloan, a senior at Jennings County High School and president of both her chapter and Indiana FFA District XII. From livestock judging to 4-H projects in cattle, rabbits, photography, and food science, Lily’s passion for agriculture shines through in everything she does. Stories like Lily’s showcase the dedication and leadership found within our FFA community. Read more inspiring stories written by our FFA in the USA reporters! ?? https://lnkd.in/gYxCMq9P #FFAintheUSA #AgLeaders #FFAProud #GrowingTheFuture

Today, we celebrate the incredible impact of agriculture and the hardworking individuals who make it all possible. From feeding our communities to driving innovation, agriculture is at the heart of everything we do. We’re proud to shine a light on this industry and the endless opportunities it provides. Thank you to all who contribute to agriculture every day! #NationalAgDay #ThankAFarmer #AgProud #FFA

The Speak Out for Agriculture (SOFA) Challenge, in partnership with the Texas Farm Bureau and the Heart O' Texas Fair and Rodeo, is empowering young advocates for the agriculture industry. This competition provides high school students with the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions on pressing issues, honing their communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills. Last year’s finalists addressed critical topics like labor force issues, right-to-farm laws, and the balance of water needs between agriculture and communities. The final round even explored complex issues like foodborne illness liability and agricultural tax policy. Ready to learn more about how the SOFA Challenge is shaping the future of agriculture leadership? ?? https://ffa.pub/43alBNn #AgAdvocates #FutureLeaders #AgEd #FFA #NationalFFA

We invite you to join us for the upcoming Remote Development Conference on March 25-27 from Noon-1 p.m. EDT. This conference will provide an invaluable opportunity to network and engage in discussions around key topics including: Expanding access to FFA opportunities National and state opportunities for growth Growing community and nontraditional chapters The role of alumni mentors Grant and award applications Event planning and safety This is a great opportunity to connect with fellow alumni and supporters while learning how to better support FFA members. Don’t miss out—mark your calendars today! https://lnkd.in/gcTnTz_7 #FFA #AlumniSupport #Leadership #CommunityBuilding

The FFA Member Leadership Series continues to empower students with the skills and confidence to lead in their chapters and beyond. Through MLS, students gain the tools to embrace challenges, drive change, and confidently step into leadership roles. It’s inspiring to see the impact these experiences are making across the country! #FFA #LeadServeGrow #FFAMemberLeadershipSeries #FFAProud

From raising poultry to discovering a passion for turfgrass, Bob Pearsall’s journey to finding his calling wasn’t straightforward—but it was certainly shaped by his FFA experience. After exploring careers in natural resources and even traveling to Europe, Bob finally found his focus in turfgrass management, thanks to some guidance from his FFA advisor and brother. Curious about how Bob’s journey unfolded? https://ffa.pub/41uhF8X Read the full article to learn how FFA helped him find his true passion! #FFA #CareerJourney #AgricultureEducation #Turfgrass