FFA members who join the national officer nominating committee accept the momentous task of screening and interviewing applicants to select the national officer team. The process requires respect, compromise and objectivity, according to Collin Weltzien, 2020 national officer nominating committee chair from Wisconsin.
“Everyone has different thoughts, opinions and perspectives on their ideal national officer, so coming to a consensus is a challenge,” Weltzien says. “The job of serving on the nominating committee is far from easy, but that is exactly what makes it an unforgettable, life-changing experience.”
Not only does the nine-member nominating committee draw on vast FFA experience and make a decision that influences the future of FFA, but committee members also benefit from vast personal and professional growth. Narrowing the field of dedicated, talented leaders who are eager to serve FFA requires the nominating committee to lean on each other and engage in challenging conversations in service of FFA.
“Serving on the nominating committee is one of the greatest acts of service to the organization,” says Claire Seibel, member of the 2020 national officer nominating committee from Virginia.
Committee members learn about the scoring method before the selection process begins. The process involves early mornings and late nights, but previous committee members say the investment of time is worth the effort.
“This committee is vital to keeping the National FFA Organization a student-led organization,” explains Arilyn Oatman, a member of the 2021 national officer nominating committee from Pennsylvania. “Having a committee of nine students interview and elect the national officers shows that student voices are the most important.”
For George Class-Peters Jr., the 2019 national officer nominating committee chair from Delaware, selecting a slate of officers that was representative of the general membership was top of mind.
“The members look to the national officers to be role models,” he says. “The committee has the opportunity to elect a slate of officers that is balanced and representative of as many members as possible.”
Chynna Nicole Chun, a 2020 national officer nominating committee member from Hawaii, agrees.
“The most rewarding experience was being able to connect with members who came from many walks of life and backgrounds,” Chun says. “I walked out of this experience with lifelong friends and reassurance that every person who came through this process has made a significant impact on FFA.”
Learn more about getting involved in the nominating committee at FFA.org/National-FFA-Officers.
Recommend someone to serve on the nominating committee by clicking here.
