On Nov. 1-3, the Central Hardin FFA went to the National FFA Convention and Expo. and left students with a memory for life.
“The National FFA Convention is the place where dreams collide,” agriculture instructor Jayna Thompson said. “Over 70,000 FFA members, advisors, and guests attended the convention this year. Every state is represented as well as Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. Our students have the opportunity to visit with Ag college representatives across the US, as well as speak to stakeholders in the industry. Our members also love meeting students from other states. The sea of blue corduroy is magical.”
FFA members themselves also have a very detailed account of the trip.
“National Convention is a packed few days but is a great experience between ag industry tours, early morning sessions at Lucas Oil, shopping at the convention mall, walking around visiting and exploring different companies and career opportunities. while being able to see the sea of blue jackets from all across the world,” junior Ashton Lush said.
“Three National Conventions in and I’m still amazed every time, it’s truly an amazing opportunity,” senior Makenzie Deweese said.
During National Convention, FFA members grow closer bonds with one another in their own chapter and with members of other chapters.
“My favorite part of National Convention was getting to spend time with the executive team as a whole. It is also a great experience getting together with FFA members from all over the country,” junior Nora Kubat said.
“National Convention is the best FFA trip I’ve ever been on,” junior Trey Stuecker said. “The amount of fun you have is unreal.”
Junior Lily Hodges met a girl from Wisconsin and exchanged Snapchat’s to stay in touch.
National Convention is also a hub for agriculture teaching. They have workshops that members can go to and leave with a new agriculture skill.
“Last year, one of the workshops I went to was about making people aware on social media, using your social media for good and agricultural advocacy.” says junior Lily Hodges.
The Central Hardin FFA chapter has a land judging team that has reached the national level.
“One thing I love about National Convention is all the memories we make, the bonds we form, and the skills we develop,” junior Hazel Duckworth said. “These are truly the best memories of my life and I am forever grateful for these people.”
“I love convention because of the opportunity to meet so many new people around our country. Seeing the sea of blue corduroy jackets is extraordinary,” junior Mattie Miller said.
It is evident that the members of FFA form a bond through National Convention that is irreplaceable and long-lasting.
