The FFA recently hosted their 97th annual National FFA Convention. Thousands of FFA members across the country attended his event to learn more and bring members and advisors to celebrate achievements. Attendees had a chance to explore a wide variety of career choices and educational opportunities.
The convention was held from October 23-26, in Indianapolis, Indiana. The convention featured many workshops, speakers, and competitions. This gave FFA members a chance to share ideas and learn from other chapters. A highlight of the convention this year was hosting Dr. Temple Grandin, animal scientist, animal activist, and doctor. She joined the convention and spoke about embracing different ways of thinking and to celebrate them.
On the first day of the convention, students got a chance to tour Hunters Honey Farm, they learned about commercial honey production and received their own as well. The next day, they attended an open session, and attended workshops while walking through the Expo and Career Fair. On the last day, attendees watched the keynote speaker Dr. Temple Grandin and later in the day they were at the College and Career Expo.
Agriculture teacher Meg Stanley shared, “While there are similarities between every National Convention, year to year, what changes are the students. What I enjoy most is seeing the students that we bring explore their role in this organization, meet members from around the country and network with amazing Ag companies. It is also eye-opening to hear their perspectives on the event, as mine is much different now that I am an advisor! I also enjoyed learning/experiencing new things myself as we took different industry tours and I got to speak with a variety of companies at the National Convention Expo Hall. This industry is always changing/adapting and so too is the National Convention.”
The experience was enlightening for the members who were able to attend.
Freshman Toni Martinez said, “My favorite part about the convention was listening to all of the different speakers during the sessions.”
The convention all wrapped up was a great experience that brought FFA members together and was a great celebration of agricultural education and leadership.
