On May 27, 2025, the 97th New Mexico FFA State Convention kicked off in Las Cruces. With more than 600 members and guests registered, members competed in leadership development events, attended sessions, participated in community service and heard inspiring messages from retiring officers and guest speakers.
In the midst of an exciting week, members were encouraged to take a step back from the busyness and rush of convention and bring or make friendship bracelets to participate in a bracelet trade — a small action for lifetime connections. FFA members across New Mexico had the opportunity to connect with old friends and make new ones, which helped to make a lasting mark.
After convention, New Mexico’s newly elected state officer team was asked to reiterate its favorite moments throughout the week. Below are these officers’ thoughts.
“Mine was in between sessions, getting to talk to everyone in the hallways.”
— 2025-26 Vice President Chris Bennett
“Being able to see and meet new people and see how joyful they were at convention.”
— 2025-26 Vice President Leandro Lopez
“Mine was the guest speaker, Wiley Bailey’s incredible message and the pre-session fun!”
— 2025-26 Vice President Caden Griffin
“Seeing the people around me accomplish the goals they have been spending months working on.”
— 2025-26 Vice President Jarren McBride
“Getting to meet and build connections with new people of various backgrounds and cultures from around the state. If it wasn’t for this organization, I would have never met them!”
— 2025-26 Vice President Grady Moss
“I truly enjoyed spending time with members and hearing all sorts of amazing stories while watching so many first-year members come out of their shell and expand their horizons!”
— 2025-26 State Secretary RJ Garay
“Convention is so special. This year, I got to experience firsthand the twinkle in so many members’ eyes. That is what it’s about — excitement for what’s to come, friendships to be made and dreams to become reality.”
— 2025-26 State President Jayda Goodson
New Mexico FFA embodied its theme of “Rooted in Purpose, Growing in Impact” by encouraging individuals to reach outside of their comfort zones and make an impact on others that would never be forgotten. This was a week filled with purpose.
