Students Leading the Way at 82nd National FFA Convention
More than 50,000 FFA members from across the United States made their way to Indianapolis, Ind., last week to take part in the 82nd National FFA Convention, appropriately themed “Lead Out Loud.” Outfitted in their infamous corduroy blue jackets, students had an opportunity to take part in a number of fun and educational activities, including a career expo, leadership development workshops, competitions and community service projects.
To its members – past and present – and advisors, FFA is more than a club for farm kids. For many, it offers the chance to develop the leadership, communication and professional skills needed to succeed.
“I think the biggest misconception about FFA is that it is just for students who live on farms,” Katee McSpadden, FFA Advisor from Dunkin High School in Dunkin, Ariz., said. “FFA is a leadership organization that offers students of all backgrounds the opportunity to develop the skills and work ethic that will help them become leaders in their communities.”
Monsanto and FFA
Monsanto has supported FFA for more than 50 years and is the organization’s largest agriculture sponsor. As a company, Monsanto donates more than $1 million a year to support multiple FFA programs, including the Washington Leadership Conference, the Million Hour Challenge, career development competitions and collegiate scholarships. Many Monsanto employees also support FFA through individual giving.
As part of the company’s long-standing commitment to the organization, Monsanto representatives took part in a number of events at this year’s convention.
One of the highlights of the week included Monsanto Chairman, President and CEO Hugh Grant’s keynote address at Thursday’s general session. During the speech, Grant spoke about the increasingly important role of the agricultural industry in addressing global challenges, as well as the role FFA students will play in solving these issues in the coming years.
More than 1,100 students, representing 141 chapters, also had an opportunity to experience Monsanto’s Mobile Technology Unit (MTU) as part of the convention’s career expo. The tours, which were booked weeks in advance, offered students a unique opportunity to learn more about Monsanto’s commitment to farmers, our technology pipeline and career opportunities.
“I enjoyed having the chance to talk with youth from across the country about our company, as well bring attention to the job diversity that is available in the industry,” Gary Barton, Monsanto agriculture educator said. “Attending events like the National FFA Convention offers a great opportunity for us to put a face to Monsanto, as well as to help students understand that the possibilities are truly endless when it comes to their careers.”
The U.S. Leadership Team and other Monsanto employees also were on-hand during the convention to judge various competitions sponsored by Monsanto, including prepared public speaking, agricultural sales and other career development events. Competition winners were announced at a convention ceremony and each received scholarship money to further their education.
“The amount of long-term commitment, resourcefulness and leadership needed to compete at this level was impressive to see,” Phil Miller, U.S. product management lead said. “These FFA students are clearly standouts in FFA, but I suspect they are standouts in their communities as well. I have no doubt that this organization is developing many of the future leaders in agriculture and other industries.”
Shad Schenck, district sales manager with Specialty Hybrids, also was in attendance at the event to offer students a look at his unique two-part career. In addition to working at Monsanto, Schenck also is a professional fisherman and is currently ranked 13th on the FLW fishing tour. During his fishing demonstrations, Schenck talked with students about his fishing adventures, as well as his experience working at Monsanto.
Monsanto received an award of its own at the convention. FFA selected the company as a recipient of the special Distinguished Service Citation, which recognizes organizations that have significantly supported agricultural education and FFA programs. Kevin Eblen, vice president, public policy and sustainable yield lead, accepted the award on behalf of Monsanto.
To learn more about the FFA, visit www.ffa.org.
