Virginia State FFA Officers Danika Landreth, Kylie Bailey, Emma Alexander, Lee Kent, Franco Abud, Georgia Grady and Alli Phillips, alongside Mr. Andy Seibel, wear their “FFA Game Day” shirts.
On Nov. 22, 2025, Virginia FFA members from across the state traveled to Virginia Tech to watch the Hokies take on the University of Miami. Members received a long sleeved Virginia Tech/FFA shirt to wear to the game, as well as a temporary “FFA Game Day” tattoo. No matter the outcome, this was more than a football game to these FFA members; it was a celebration and a testament to 100 years of FFA in Virginia.
Seven Virginia FFA members showing off their “FFA Game Day” temporary tattoos.
Broader Horizons
The National FFA Organization now stretches from Maine to Hawai`i, and from Alaska to the Virgin Islands. However, 101 years ago, the Future Farmers of Virginia (FFV) was created by educators at Virginia Tech in 1925. This laid the foundation for the National FFA Organization (formerly known as Future Farmers of America), which began in 1928 when 33 vocational agriculture students from 18 states came together in Kansas City, Mo.
From 33 Members to Over a Million
These leaders’ goals for the organization were simple: to develop leadership skills, build confidence and promote agriculture for future generations. To say those goals were accomplished would be an understatement; FFA has grown in many ways since. Initially, the organization started with 33 members, but has since grown to over one million members nationwide — securing its spot as the largest student-led organization in the country.
Impact Across a Century
Since 1928, the organization has expanded in several ways. First, leadership development has evolved from locally focused chapter roles to include state and national officer roles, as well as leadership conferences, public speaking, advocacy and teamwork training. Second, Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) programs have grown from predominantly farm-based projects to include entrepreneurship, research and service-based learning experiences. Lastly, the organization was originally limited to male members; however, FFA expanded in 1969 to include female members. Women now make up a significant portion of its membership and leadership roles.
Lane Stadium is filled with the roar of Hokie pride.
From FFA to Fame
Normally, when people think about FFA, they may think of stereotypical farm kids. But that statement is a little outdated; FFA is for everyone. The organization is home to members from all over the nation with diverse backgrounds and experiences. According to FFA.org, these members come together with one common vision: “Growing the next generation of leaders who will change the world.”
The National FFA Organization has been preparing students for the world for decades. Many past FFA members have gone on to do great things. For example, Former President Jimmy Carter, United States Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins and the famous singers Tim McGraw and Taylor Swift were all once active FFA members.
From its beginnings at Virginia Tech to its influence felt across the country, the FFA legacy is built on pride, passion and purpose. The Virginia Tech game was more than a celebration of 100 years; it was an important reminder of where FFA started and why it continues.
As FFA steps into its next 100 years, the organization will continue to carry its deep roots forward, inspiring not only members, but also the world, to lead with heart, serve with purpose and leave agriculture — and the world — better than they found it.
