Odessa FFA and LEAD Delaware members in Legislative Hall after their demonstration of parliamentary procedure.
After three taps of a gavel, the room went silent. Five Delaware FFA members turned to their chairs to find out the topic they were to debate using the proper rules of parliamentary procedure.
For the first time, Odessa FFA members put on a live demonstration for LEAD Delaware, an agriculture and natural resources leadership program designed to help build the next generation of leaders in the food and fiber industries. The two-year program tests an agriculturist’s ability to address social, political and economic issues in sectors related to agriculture, food and natural resources.
This parliamentary procedure demonstration at Legislative Hall not only offered LEAD Delaware members the opportunity to understand the purpose and function of law but also the importance of integrating it into their business discussions.
The 2025 Odessa FFA parliamentary procedure demonstration team and chapter parliamentarian Ferdinand Agypong (far left).
Like many chapters, the Odessa FFA Chapter utilizes parliamentary procedure during chapter and committee meetings to ensure every voice is heard and the majority prevails. After their live presentation to LEAD Delaware, members answered questions about their use of parliamentary procedure and experiences within agriculture and FFA.
“Parliamentary procedure serves as a filter for individuals to voice their opinions on topics related to the chapter’s function and Program of Activities,” says Odessa FFA Chapter Parliamentarian Ferdinand Agypong.
At this demonstration, members debated whether their chapter officer team should have a team bonding trip paid for by the chapter. They discussed public perception, monetary expenses and the social/emotional need for this experience.
The 2025 Odessa FFA parliamentary procedure team.
“The skills we displayed will serve these industry professionals well, no matter the topic of discussion,” says Odessa FFA parliamentary procedure team member Emma Sweetman. “This demonstration aligns with the work of LEAD Delaware members because parliamentary procedure is relevant to any discussion.”
This engaging and informative demonstration allowed young, emerging leaders of our nation to bring parliamentary procedure to life, thus laying a foundation for business and productivity for decision-makers in Delaware agriculture.
