For many students, heading back to school means many things, but for FFA members, it means the National FFA Convention & Expo is just around the corner! The 92nd National FFA Convention & Expo is taking place Oct. 30 to Nov. 2, 2019, in Indianapolis. This year promises to bring new friendships, great entertainment, and memories that will last a lifetime.
Whether this is your first time or your fourth, the national convention has something for everyone. From the entertainment to the competitions to the FFA mall, there is so much to do at the convention that you won’t want to miss out on.
With only 65 days until National FFA Convention and early bird registration opening on Sept. 10, it is never too early to start planning! Even if you have been to national convention before, a few changes have been made this year.
One of the most exciting parts of the National FFA Convention is the opening session. The energy in the room is unmatched, especially when the band comes marching in. New this year, all sessions, including opening sessions, general sessions, and the American FFA Degree Ceremony will be held at Lucas Oil Stadium. With more seating options for the members, it gives everyone the opportunity to attend these important sessions.
In addition to the changes, the National FFA Organization announced two separate entertainers this year — Old Dominion and Brett Young. New this year, both concerts will be held at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Be sure to buy your tickets on Ticketmaster.
Although some things have changed, others remain a constant. For example, this is a great time to make connections from all around the country. You never know where these connections can lead — future internships, scouting for colleges, or even campaigning for future positions. Never again will you be in the same place with as many FFA members and supporters. Take advantage of that feeling and bring that back to your chapter. With this many young people interested in FFA, you have the ability to change the future of agriculture.
Justin Mauss, nine time National FFA Convention-goer and fifth year as an FFA advisor, said, “Don’t leave anything on the table.” Mauss said he tells his students, “Try to get as much experience as you can while you are there. Meet as many people as you can. Be sure to ask questions when you go on the industry tours and pay attention during session. Finally, the whole reason for national convention is to make note of what other chapters are doing, and try to bring something back to your chapter to make it better.”
In addition to bringing new ideas back to your chapter, it is also important to know the members elected as the new National Officer Team. Check out the 44 members vying to be honored with that title here. This is the biggest pool of candidates in more than 15 years!
We all know that time flies when you are having fun. During National FFA Convention, that saying could not be more true. Even though you may think you will have down time, the reality is, time will fly by. In order to utilize every minute, have a plan before you leave. For example, make a list of three things you will not miss, three things you want to do, and three things you will try and fit in if you have extra time. Be ready to hit the ground running whenever you get to Indianapolis.
For more information about the 92nd National FFA Convention & Expo, check out the website.
