You can’t talk about modern-day agriculture without the National FFA Organization being a part of the conversation. With hundreds of thousands of members, FFA is a vital place to encourage young people who are interested in our food system and, in many instances, in farming and ranching, specifically. We at AGDAILY have been writing weekly features and other news items about FFA chapters and the National FFA for years — it’s important to highlight the efforts and passion of the organization’s members. Much of this coverage has allowed us to put together a guide about many aspects of the National FFA, including some of its traditions and some advice for those who are going to the National FFA Convention, which takes place every fall in Indianapolis.
So many people have stories about the positive things that FFA membership has done for them:
- How one Tennessee chapter is preserving its history while strengthening its future: Tennessee FFA Chapter explores Black-rooted NFA history
- An Ohio native opened herself up and talked about mental illness and how FFA saved her: Amid the specter of mental illness, FFA helped me find my way
- One Indiana member shows how FFA participation lifted her out of some speech-therapy issues that she was having: FFA helped Indiana student do more than just talk the talk
- A Virginia professor on what he has seen from the amazing young men and women in the organization: FFA cultivates lifelong agvocates
- The belief that the young leaders here will truly make a difference: Farmer’s Daughter: An open letter to FFA members
So much about being in FFA is representing agriculture in the best way possible and showing the industry’s unity. Some of this comes though in the FFA’s traditions, such as the creed, which has a deep history that you can read about here. Visually, we see the FFA emblem, which adorns the iconic blue corduroy jacket.
And that massive sea of blue corduroy is rarely more visible than during the annual National FFA Convention & Expo, which has taken place for many years in Indianapolis and will remain there through at least 2031. However, this year, the convention had to make adjustments due to the pandemic. Thankfully, the 94th Convention & Expo will once again be taking place in-person with the option for a virtual event for those students who can not make it to Indianapolis.
Having been to the national convention ever since AGDAILY’s launch, we have lots of resources for those who are making the trip, including a couple of pieces of advice for first-timers who are going. Check out any of these links below to get all the best info about convention and the experience that awaits!
For first-timers, we want to make sure this is a memorable experience:
- Advice from students and advisors who have been there: 10 tips for National FFA Convention first-timers
- The scoop from a veteran convention-goer who’ll make you a pro by the time you land in Indy: First-timer’s National FFA Convention guide
For new attendees and veteran conventioneers alike:
- Buckle up for these travel convention hacks: 10 travel tips for the National FFA Convention
- Take what you need, leave what you don’t: 8 things you can’t forget to pack for National FFA Convention
- Be ready for an emotional week: The best moments & emotions at the National FFA Convention
Now, you’ll be able to hit the ground running at convention! The experience will make you a better FFA member — and a better person overall.
And whether you go to convention in-person or online, you’ll ultimately be able to celebrate the perks of being an FFA alum, one who has probably heard these quotes over and over through the years, and still loves them!
Hopefully, you remember the fun, which is the last place we’ll leave you. Have you ever wondered exactly where you fit into the FFA mold? This is a quiz that will help show you just how well you fit a stereotype — as corny as it may be! 😉
