(Article written and submitted by: Hunter Jarrell, Racine Southern FFA Historian)
The National FFA Convention, held annually in Indianapolis, serves as a cornerstone event for agricultural education, uniting thousands of youth, educators, and industry leaders from across the nation. This year, the convention ran from October 23 to October 26, 2024, bringing together over 70,000 attendees to celebrate the achievements of the National FFA Organization members and to explore the vital role agriculture plays in our communities and economy.
Attendees can look forward to a packed agenda that includes keynote speeches from influential figures in agriculture, interactive workshops, and competitions showcasing the talents and skills of FFA members. “The convention is a powerful experience for our students,” said Dr. Melissa Ray, National FFA Advisor. “It allows them to connect with peers, gain insights into the industry, and develop the leadership skills that will serve them as they pursue careers in agriculture and beyond.”
When the Racine Southern FFA Chapter went to the National FFA Convention, we did various other activities throughout the week. On the first day, Tuesday October 22nd, we departed from Southern High School bright and early. We went to the Sugar Creek Packing Factory, where we toured them from start to finish processing bacon and bacon bits. Then we drove to Great Wolf Lodge and enjoyed the water and then dinner before spending the night there. The second day, Wednesday October 23rd, we left Great Wolf Lodge and drove the rest of the way to Indianapolis and attended a student workshop, which was about being kind to your mind . We then walked around the career expo and looked at all the booths and shopping opportunities. We had dinner at The Yard House for dinner. After dinner we attended the Megan Moroney concert at the Indianapolis Pacers stadium.
On the third day, Thursday October 24th, we went to the Opening Session, which hosted comedian Kevin Wanzer as a guest speaker. We learned how to be better leaders in our everyday lives from his keynote address. Following the session, we hung around the convention center until we got on a bus to go take a tour of Stoops Training Academy, which is a semi and large vehicle mechanical training center. After the tour we went go-karting at Fast Times Go-Kart Racing. On the fourth and final day, Friday October 25th, we attended the Fourth General Session, which hosted Dr. Temple Grandin as a guest speaker. From the Dr’s keynote address we learned how important all the trade jobs are to the functionality of our country. We then drove to Cummins Inc. Technical Center and was given a tour and explanation of everything that went on in the buildings. Examples of this could be the intricate emission testing procedures and how they build the engines to filter dirty air and release clean air back out. Finally, we headed back home to Southern High School.
In conclusion, the National FFA Convention is more than just a gathering; it is a celebration of the resilience, innovation, and leadership that define the future of agriculture. As the young leaders of tomorrow convene in Indianapolis, they will leave inspired and equipped to face the challenges ahead, ensuring that agriculture remains a cornerstone of American life. With a focus on inclusivity, innovation, and leadership, the potential for positive change within the agricultural sector is limitless.
(This picture was taken before going into the Megan Moroney Concert.)
(FFA Members who attended the National FFA Convention from left to right: Hunter Lackey, Bryer Holley, Skyler Allen, Hunter Jarrell, Nathanial Nero, Justin Lawson, Tyson Hupp)