Delegates at the 94th National FFA Convention ratified new value statements that promote a more inclusive, equitable organization for all FFA members.
“As an organization, we strive to ensure all members — no matter their background or future endeavors — can call our organization home,” says national secretary Jackson Sylvester.
At national convention, 475 delegates from all 52 state associations approved the value statements. Josiah Cruikshank, national western region vice president, believes that the widespread support of the new value statements sends a powerful message.“It’s really encouraging to see the support these statements have received from our members,” Cruikshank says. “They were passed unanimously by our entire delegate body.”
The National FFA Officers shared their thoughts on the new value statements.
We respect and embrace every individual’s culture and experiences.
The first time Erik Robinson attended the Georgia FFA Convention he worried he would be one of the only members of color. The national southern region vice president was immediately welcomed into the fold.
“People would talk to me, interact with me and ask me questions not as an FFA member of color but just as an FFA member,” Robinson recalls. “Before this value statement was even adopted, my culture and experiences were embraced, and that’s what made me fall in love with this organization.”
We welcome every individual’s contribution to advance our communities and the industry of agriculture.
National FFA Eastern Region Vice President Mallory White was recognized for her impact on her family farm and in the local community as part of the Forage Production Proficiency Award. She wants other FFA members to have similar experiences.
“There are countless opportunities for members to pursue whatever it is they are passionate about within agriculture,” says White. “When we utilize the unique talents, interests and strengths of our members, we will grow leaders both for our communities and for agriculture.”
We cultivate an environment that allows every individual to recognize and explore their differences.
National FFA President Cole Baerlocher experienced the value of uniqueness during his time as a member of the Colfax FFA Chapter in Colfax, Wash. He hopes that celebrating individuality has a positive impact on American agriculture.
“I did not have a tie to production agriculture like many of my peers in my FFA chapter,” he says. “FFA created an environment for me to celebrate my passion for agriculture while embracing the passions of those around me.”
We create leadership opportunities for every individual to enhance their personal and professional endeavors.
Cortney Zimmerman, national central region vice president, has enjoyed multiple leadership opportunities since joining FFA, and she encourages other members to make the most of those experiences.
“Through FFA leadership opportunities, members have the chance to develop personal and professional skills they can use beyond their time wearing the blue jacket,” she says. “Our members have the chance to become the next generation of leaders who will change the world.”
