A North Clay FFA Chapter’s old “Chapter Sweetheart” jacket is displayed on a rack of current blue jackets.
“Look at what we found,” says North Clay FFA Advisor Katrina Van Dyke. She proceeds to showcase an old FFA sign coated in layers of dust.
The vintage FFA sign found by Van Dyke is hung up after being cleaned of its dust and debris.
Understanding the History
The above sign reading “Future Farmers of America” dates to its time. In 1988, the Future Farmers of America organization changed its name to the National FFA Organization to reflect the changes being made in agriculture. This led to a growing diversity in the North Clay FFA Chapter as well; it advanced with the growth in variety of achievements in comparison to those of the previous times.
The current sign that is hung up at North Clay High School.
A Discovery is Made
Given North Clay High School’s recent construction and additions, the FFA chapter has started to move into a new classroom and shop. This starts with cleaning out years of collected awards and memorabilia. Each day, current members have discovered new insights about their chapter’s layered past.
A 1952 award is displayed after being discovered by today’s North Clay FFA members.
Present and Past Generations of Agriculturists
As we reflect on the history of this organization and its impact on this small chapter, we must acknowledge those who got us where we are today. In 1948, the chapter was officially incorporated into FFA. The charter states, “This is to certify that the following vocational agriculture students have been duly recognized as members of an incorporated chapter of the Future Farmers of America known as the North Clay FFA Chapter.”
Twenty-four members signed the charter, so their names went down in history as the ones who paved the way for today’s youth in agriculture at North Clay High School.
The North Clay FFA Chapter’s charter is displayed on a wall.
There’s Always a Reason
Acknowledging those who came before us is important because it honors the legacy and hard work that laid the foundation for our organization today. Their dedication, leadership and vision helped shape FFA into a strong and respected community for today’s members. By recognizing their contributions, we not only show gratitude, but also draw inspiration to continue to uphold the values they instilled.
