Q: The National FFA Convention & Expo brings memories that last a lifetime. What is a top national convention memory that sticks with you today?
My senior year, our chapter traveled to convention in a bus, which ended up breaking down in the middle of Indianapolis, 1 mile from our hotel. We freaked out for a second but ended up making the most of it. The hour that our bus was stuck right next to Lucas Oil Stadium went by quickly because we laughed, played music and had a good time with the excitement of finally being in downtown Indy.
– Doster Harper, National FFA President
Being on stage when the 2016-17 National FFA Officers were elected was a moment that will always stick with me. These officers were crying, jumping and laughing. At the time, I didn’t understand; I was just amazed to be in their presence. I realize now what a special moment that was for the people who care so deeply about agriculture, agricultural education and FFA. That passion is what keeps the flame of our organization alive.
– Anna Mathis, National FFA Secretary
I will never, ever forget hearing Clay Sapp’s retiring address at the 86th National FFA Convention & Expo. As he took us into “his little world” and asked us what we were doing for others, I was stopped in my little 13-year-old tracks. Because of the words I heard on that day in November of 2013, I was inspired to find ways to enter other people’s little worlds through service every day that followed.
– Artha Jonassaint, Southern Region Vice President
One of my all-time favorite memories from National FFA Convention is competing in the livestock evaluation career development event. This was my final livestock contest of my high school career, and I’ll never be able to top the feeling of competing with my team for the final time. To this day, my teammates are some of my best friends. I wouldn’t trade that memory for the world!
– Paxton Dahmer, Central Region Vice President
Sitting in the nosebleeds at my first National FFA Convention in 2014, I felt deep in my soul that FFA was for me. It was during the retiring address from the central vice president that year, Steven Brockshus; his genuine message of love and forgiveness made me realize that if people like Steven led FFA, then it was a place I wanted to be. It was that convention that ultimately led me to national office.
– Miriam Hoffman, Eastern Region Vice President
I had the privilege of representing the Latinx community at the 92nd National Convention & Expo, reciting opening and closing ceremonies in Spanish. I can wholeheartedly say it has been one of my fondest memories at national convention. In this moment, the organization celebrated culture and recognized the gap between students across the country from different backgrounds. National convention is an opportunity for us to continue learning about the gap and how we can celebrate all cultures.
