Michigan FFA state officers thank Rep. Witwer (center) for her instrumental role in securing funding.
Through the State of Michigan Public Act 120, the Michigan FFA Association received $4 million in funds. Michigan FFA Executive Secretary Tiffany Rogers-Randolph and Michigan FFA Advisor Mark Forbush established a goal for these funds to be used to impact current and future agriscience students and teachers for as long as possible.
Impacts
Receiving this funding has helped reduce FFA dues for all local chapters by 30%. Reducing these dues helps chapters create an impact in their communities and increase student opportunities at the local level.
The Michigan Farm Bureau has also supported the state by giving every FFA member access to a cost-free credential that will help endorse their skills and experiences as they enter the agriculture workforce.
Additionally, all six Michigan FFA Regional Leadership Training Camps have received a 50% increase in funding. This is the first funding increase in 20 years, and the training camps will help prepare chapter officers in the years ahead.
Improvements
The state association has been housed in the same office space for the past 18 years. The newly received state funding is allowing for renovations that will almost triple the size of the office space. This will create space for the state officers and staff to more efficiently serve members and teachers from across the state.
In the past, staffing limitations have prevented the state association from adding new programming and increasing the quality of resources and support for students and teachers. These funds will be used to add an office staff member who can help facilitate the growth and future of Michigan FFA. The direction of this growth will be determined with the guidance of students, teachers and agriculture business partners.
“We are excited to say that with one of our priorities for these funds is the longevity of the impact. Each of these changes will continue not just this year, but for years to come, and for the benefit of all students. We are continuing to explore additional benefits for Michigan FFA members that these funds will allow us to accomplish.”
– Tiffany Rogers-Randolph, Michigan FFA Executive Secretary
