Haven Cash poses with her FFA in the USA Reporter certificate at the 97th National FFA Convention & Expo.
The Beginning of Something Greater
I will never forget the day — June 25, 2024—when I found out I had been selected as a National FFA in the USA Reporter. It wasn’t too long after I was elected as the reporter for my chapter, so I was just starting to get a feel for the content I would take on throughout my next year of service.
As a writer, I feel part of my responsibility is highlighting what’s happening around me and not so much my personal journey. However, part of being a leader and role model is vocalizing your path and the experiences that led you to where you are today.
Where It Started
Since I was young, I’ve loved creating vivid stories and journaling my daily experiences. Literature has always intrigued me, even in writing assignments for school.
When I became an FFA member, though, I didn’t expect to use my love for journalism in the organization. I had very little understanding of the “reporter” title until I was selected for the position. I knew most of the basics, such as running social media and advocating for our chapter throughout the community, but I had no idea I would be awarded an opportunity to release my work at the national level.
After only a few weeks of serving as my chapter’s reporter, I began to set pertinent goals for myself. I wanted to do my best and reach as many people as possible. With this goal, applying to be an FFA in the USA Reporter was certainly an opportunity I couldn’t miss.
Months later, after receiving my acceptance email, I began to learn my tasks. Being selected for the first team of FFA in the USA reporters came with a huge responsibility. I understood the extra dedication the learning process would take for all the reporters, mentors and advisors. It also put us in charge of educating those around us through our reports and promoting agricultural literacy throughout the nation.
Knowing the difference we can make, I accepted the role in setting an example for the future of FFA.
Illinois FFA in the USA Reporters take a picture at national convention.
Why It Matters
No matter how big or small our achievements are, our job is critical in promoting the betterment of the future generations of agriculturists. Without the widespread knowledge of our organization, several members would not be where they are today.
The connections and friendships I have built from this adventure alone are life-changing. If I had not applied for this role, I wouldn’t have had a hand in developing members like myself in the hopes of better days through better ways.
