The National FFA Convention is always a celebration of youth, leadership, and agriculture’s bright future, but this year’s event offered a special full-circle moment for one of the nation’s top ag leaders. U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins returned to the same FFA stage she once stood on as a student, sharing a deeply personal message before turning her attention to a serious threat facing livestock producers.
Rollins spoke about her small-town roots and the people who helped her find her path in agriculture. For her, that guidance began with the influence of an FFA advisor who believed in her potential and encouraged her to chase opportunities she never thought possible. Years later, that same person was in the audience to witness the student he once mentored now serving as the nation’s Secretary of Agriculture.
It was Rollins’ first National FFA Convention appearance since her own days in the blue jacket, and she says the experience reminded her of how powerful FFA’s influence can be.
Following her remarks, Rollins spoke with reporters about a growing concern that could have devastating consequences for the livestock industry, the reemergence of the New World Screwworm.
Rollins also used her time with reporters to update the ongoing effort to stop the spread of the New World Screwworm. She said the situation remains serious, but that new facilities, border actions, and continued coordination with Mexico are helping strengthen the response.
From the FFA stage to the Secretary’s office, Rollins’ story came full circle. Her message to students was one of gratitude and perseverance, while her focus remains on protecting the livestock industry and the farmers who make American agriculture strong.
