My favorite part of the work I get to do with the National FFA Organization might surprise you. It’s not seeing my name in a byline, writing the next content plan or traveling to film a video. Simply put, it’s the people.

From the talented professionals who bring ideas (like this magazine) to life, to the enthusiastic FFA in the USA Reporters who are sharpening their skills and the impressive sources who trust FFA to tell their stories, everyone I encounter reminds me that the people who support and represent the blue jacket are the best of the best.

This issue shines a light on several hardworking, servant-hearted FFA members and alums who lead by example. Our cover story, “On the Front Lines of Farm Fire Prevention,” features Dakine Thompson, whose Supervised Agricultural Experience focuses on equipping those in his community — and around the country — with invaluable farm safety tools and resources.

In “Renewed Strength,” Shelby Malone shares how she leaned on the community she found in FFA during a difficult time, and the 2025-26 National FFA Officer Team shouts out noteworthy individuals who shaped their FFA journeys. Finally, feel inspired as you read what sparked Sadie Lackey’s decision to start her people-focused nonprofit, 118 Foundation, in “Committed to a Cause.”

Although you may have big plans for your FFA experience, I believe the people who surround us — and those we pour into — directly affect who we become. So, it’s important to choose them wisely. Take time to be a friend to someone who may need one, show appreciation to those in your corner and, above all, consider additional ways you can put people first.