National FFA Chorus: A Lasting Impact
Members, directors and chaperones of the 2025 National FFA Chorus.
During the 98th National FFA Convention & Expo, members from across the country gathered to celebrate leadership, service and agriculture. However, behind the lights and applause stood something truly special: the National FFA Chorus. As a member of the 2025 chorus, I didn’t just come to convention to sing; I came nervous, excited and unaware that people I had never met would soon feel like family.
From the first rehearsal, the room was filled with talent, energy and unfamiliar faces. Still, the connections formed quickly. “The chorus exceeded my expectations,” says Hannah Doodeman from Florida. “It was the best time ever, it was such a family.” That feeling became the foundation of our group. We weren’t just learning music; we were learning how to trust one another and work as one voice.
The chorus also helped us grow personally. “It has opened me up to new opportunities in school and helped me with my communication skills,” says Chris Long from Iowa. Representing our chapters, states and the national organization pushed us to carry ourselves with confidence and professionalism. Every rehearsal and performance taught us discipline and leadership that extends beyond the stage.
National FFA Chorus members having the “Best Day of My Life,” featuring a surprise from our friends in the National FFA Band.
For many, the experience meant stepping outside comfort zones. “It pushed me out of my comfort zone because I performed in front of more people than I ever had before and spent many hours rehearsing and perfecting our music,” says Cierra Collins from Oklahoma. Long days, choreography, memorizing cues and singing while tired challenged us, but also made us better.
What made the chorus special was how fast strangers became family. “Meeting people that have the same interests as you can really make people close when you know they’ll support you while you chase your dreams,” says Kolton Smith from Oklahoma. That support showed in the small moments — encouraging each other backstage, laughing late at night and singing wherever we could.
One moment that truly showed the power of the group came unexpectedly. Austin Hunter from Texas says it was when “we were all together in the parking garage, singing, and all the acoustics were going on…just hanging out.” Those echoes of our voices reminded us that we were part of something bigger than ourselves.
Side by side or miles apart, the National FFA Chorus will always have my heart.
The chorus also reflects the FFA mission. Victor Salas from Missouri says that auditioning takes courage and begins leadership development. Chorus members represent their chapters and states with professionalism, grow by learning to manage nerves and serve by setting the tone for convention sessions through music that inspires attendees.
Walking on stage brought a rush of emotion. “I was exhilarated to be on this stage again and proud for pushing myself out of my comfort zone for this once-in-a-lifetime experience,” says Caroline Borst from New York. Even the challenges became memories, like Tony Jennings from Missouri joking about “memorizing cues for the dance moves while singing.”
Camila Castillon Gordian from Oregon summed it up best: “The National FFA Chorus is a powerful, collaborative experience.” McKashyn Salsbury from Wyoming reminds future members to enjoy every moment and meet new people because they become lifelong friends. Last but not least, Zoe Larson from Montana says, “It never leaves…you meet people who become family and learn how to push your limits.”
National FFA Chorus members created Christmas ornaments in preparation for the holiday season.
Being part of the 2025 National FFA Chorus wasn’t just about music; it was about courage, connection and discovering a voice that lasts long after the final note fades. Our voices came from different states, stories and backgrounds, but it was the family we became that turned sound into strength and music into meaning.
