Convention Empowers Future of Agriculture

By Maggie Edwards

A sea of blue corduroy jackets, including hundreds from sweet home Alabama, filled Lucas Oil Stadium Oct. 29-Nov. 1 for the 98th National FFA Convention and Expo in Indiana.

Over 70,000 FFA members, advisers and guests left feeling empowered - a callback to the convention theme that encouraged students to soar to new heights.

Alabama FFA State Treasurer Rachel Lee said this year's theme exemplified the organization's roots.

"Whether on the national or state level, it's important that FFA members can empower one another - in boosting confidence and leadership skills," said Lee, a Coffee County native who attends Enterprise State Community College. "U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins said it best during a general session. She said, 'It's not about the title you hold or winning but the difference you make in the lives of others.'"

Indiana Farm Bureau President Randy Kron welcomed Alabama's delegation during a state social at his organization's headquarters, which boasted almost 500 Alabama FFA members and advisers, plus Alabama Farmers Federation leadership and three state legislators.

"We appreciate our friends at Indiana Farm Bureau for hosting us and taking time to speak with Alabama students," said Federation President Jimmy Parnell. "FFA is important. The Federation is proud to support the next generation of agriculturalists."

The excitement of National FFA Convention resonated with Sen. David Sessions, R-Grand Bay; Rep. Danny Crawford, R-Athens; and Rep. Patrick Sellers, D-Pleasant Grove.

"As a farmer, it's fantastic seeing so many people passionate about agriculture," said Sessions, the Senate Ag Committee chair. "It has been great to see the fruit of our investments. It is well worth it. Not a penny is misspent on these kids."

Since 2022, the Education Trust Fund has provided affiliate membership in FFA for all Alabama agriscience students.

Crawford echoed Sessions, stating it was refreshing to see FFA members' leadership and communication skills in action during one-on-one conversations.

"They are the future of agriculture," said Crawford, the House Ag Committee chair. "I'm excited about what I saw. Some of my favorite days at the Alabama State House are when the blue jackets come to Capitol Hill. We hear firsthand why continued funding is important."

Sellers had a similar experience during his two days immersed in the FFA culture.

"I think every student in Alabama should have a sense of FFA in their life," Sellers said. "It's important that legislators witness the leadership skills and personal development happening in this organization."

Alabama students were honored for excellence in agriculture during the convention, while delegate and policy work took place. The Lauderdale County FFA String Band won the National FFA Talent competition.

Additionally, Alabama FFA Northeast Ag Program Improvement Specialist Chip Blanton received a VIP Citation. The award honors just a handful of individuals annually who have dedicated at least 20 years of service to agriscience education and FFA on a national level.

Alabama FFA State Sentinel Blaine Johnson said there's no better feeling than being at National FFA Convention with likeminded people.

"We are nothing short of blessed to be surrounded by so many FFA members and supporters," said Johnson, a senior at Hartselle High School. "'Empowered' is the best way to describe this experience."