As many Iowa students return to the classroom this week, FFA is beginning another school year with continued growth both in Iowa and across the country.
National FFA recently wrapped up its latest membership year with more than one million members nationwide. National FFA CEO Scott Stump says much of that growth is being driven by new chapters and communities gaining access to agricultural education and FFA.
Stump says Iowa is part of that growth, with two new communities gaining access to FFA and agricultural education. Nationwide, nearly 200 new communities are adding programs.
While FFA has deep roots in rural America, its reach continues to expand beyond traditional agricultural communities. Stump says FFA and agricultural education can now be found in 22 of the 24 largest metropolitan areas in the country, including programs in cities such as Chicago and New York. He also noted the return of FFA programming in Des Moines.
Stump believes part of that growth comes from young people wanting a stronger connection to food, agriculture and the process of solving real-world problems.
For students entering an agricultural education program or joining FFA for the first time this fall, the number of opportunities available through the organization can seem overwhelming. Stump says agricultural educators and local FFA advisors play an important role in helping students determine which opportunities best fit their interests and future plans.
As those students begin another year of activities, competitions and leadership development, National FFA is also preparing for its largest annual gathering.
More than 70,000 FFA members, advisors, alumni and supporters are expected to gather in Indianapolis this October for the National FFA Convention. The event is scheduled for October 21 through 24 at Lucas Oil Stadium and the Indiana Convention Center.
The convention brings together members from across the country to compete, develop leadership skills, explore career opportunities, and celebrate accomplishments from throughout the year.
For Iowa FFA members returning to school, the new year begins as part of an organization that continues to expand its reach nationwide, with the National FFA Convention providing one of the biggest opportunities this fall to see that growth gathered in one place.
