FFA acclaims 75 years

From Staff Reports

From 33 farm boys in 1928 to today's membership of nearly half a million students nationwide, the National FFA Organization has changed significantly in 75 years. Yet, the main mission of FFA, student success, has never been stronger.

By developing an integrated model of education through classroom learning, real-world work experience, and activities designed to promote personal growth, FFA and agricultural education help students discover and plan their own unique route to future success.

This year, FFA is celebrating 75 years of making a positive influence in students' lives. During National FFA Week, Feb. 15-22, students from all over the country are performing acts of community service, presenting program in their schools, and making presentations to government officials and business executives to highlight the accomplishment.

"Our advisors and programs have been ensuring we excel at one mission: student success for 75 years," explained National FFA Advisor Larry D. Case.

Changes in the organization's programs over the years reflect the diversification of the agricultural industry as a whole. While the majority of FFA activities in 1928 focused on production agriculture, today they also give young people the knowledge needed for more than 300 diverse careers in the food, fiber, and natural resources industries. Real-world skills members learn through FFA prepare them for a range of futures in such fields as marketing, law, science, international business, veterinary medicine, and golf course management.

The ability of the organization to continue to impact young people through 75 years of change is evident in the number of students who join. Found in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, FFA is currently experiencing a 19-year high in membership. More than 461,000 students ages 12-21 participate in more than 7,000 chapters. Eleven of the nation's 15 largest cities claim FFA chapters.

FFA is not extracurricular. The program completes a three-part model of education. Classroom instruction is applied to hands-on supervised agricultural experience programs (SAEs), which are further strengthened through curriculum-enhancing activities and programs. Students learn by doing, polishing the characteristics and skills they will need for future success.

For 75 years, thousands of students have benefited from the unique opportunities created through membership in FFA. During FFA Week, members are working to motivate new students to realize their dreams by joining FFA.

FFA is a national youth organization of 461,043 student members preparing for leadership and careers in the science, business, and technology of agriculture. FFA strives to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education.