FFA in the USA
Western Region
197 stories by student reporters
Beyond the Blue Ribbon
Athena Zaki · Nov 2, 2026 · 55 reads
Every ribbon has a story, but not every story ends with one. After four years of showing rabbits, Brayden Small has experienced the thrill of grand champion titles and the disappointment of falling short. Behind every result lies a journey of hard work, setbacks and a lesson in what success means beyond the blue ribbon.
Inspired by Mentors, Rooted in Ag
Sophia Landeros · Nov 2, 2026 · 6 reads
Mentors are the backbone to leaders in agriculture. Dive into the stories of two members, Madelyn Kennedy and Sophia Landeros, to learn more about the impact mentors have had in their lives.
A Budding New Business: Bear River Floral Walks Down the Aisle
Taylor Shimamoto · Nov 2, 2026 · 16 reads
Bear River High School’s Agribusiness pathway begins with classes in sustainable agriculture. It has culminated with a walk down the aisle. By the end of the three-year path, students can receive certification in floral design, and are able to create monthly arrangements for more than 50 paying customers. A wedding was a first for students in Lauren Glomson’s Advanced Floral course — and they got to work with two brides this past quarter.
Better Ways, Former Years: The Agriculture Traditions of Indigenous Alaska
Liam Wade · Oct 28, 2026 · 29 reads
Alaska’s agriculture extends far beyond traditional farms and livestock. Explore how Alaska Native communities have sustained food, culture and agricultural knowledge through wild plant cultivation, salmon harvests and reindeer husbandry, while adapting to modern agricultural practices. From generations-old traditions to modern greenhouses, these practices show how agriculture continues to evolve alongside Alaska’s environment and communities.
Building confidence through a color known for sadness. Blue.
Jesse Kirkpatrick · Oct 17, 2026 · 91 reads
Usually, blue is associated with sadness, loneliness, and somber moments. But in FFA, blue means something entirely different. It’s more than a color. It’s a jacket, a community, a thousand memories, and a version of myself I never knew existed.
Sharing the Ladder
Viviana Velazquez · Jul 30, 2026 · 56 reads
High school does not mark the end of your FFA journey. Learn how Sammi Selliers stays involved as a California FFA Alumna.
Every Seed Has Its Season
Viviana Velazquez · Jul 30, 2026 · 222 reads
Not all seeds blossom at the same time, nor do all FFA members find their passion immediately. Discover how Alley Long proves it's never too late.
The Missing Chapters: FFA’s Place in Continuation Schools
Michael German · Jul 29, 2026 · 126 reads
Despite sharing similar foundations, only two continuation schools in California have FFA chapters. FFA Advisor Robyn Payne shares the challenges and opportunities with advising one.
Creating Her Own Path: An Aspiring Agriculture Teacher’s Perspective
Viviana Velazquez · Jun 24, 2026 · 60 reads
Bailey Ham created her own path in FFA, leading to agricultural education. Hear her advice.
Unlocking Innovation: Sutherlin FFA Takes Escape Rooms to National Convention
Khloe Grotting · Jun 24, 2026 · 66 reads
The Sutherlin FFA Chapter showcases innovation through building and designing escape rooms for the 99th National FFA Convention & Expo.
The Hidden Cost of Artificial Intelligence
Jordan Emmitte · Jun 24, 2026 · 51 reads
Artificial Intelligence has become a main priority in our society and so has its affects on our environment.
Different Chapters, One Team: Meet the 2026-27 Merced-Mariposa Section Team
Maddie Cole · Jun 23, 2026 · 46 reads
The leadership journeys and visions of the 2026-27 Merced-Mariposa Section Officer Team and how the blue jacket brought six students from different chapters together to serve and inspire others.
From Quiet Beginnings to Inspiring Leadership
Jewels Pradt · Jun 23, 2026 · 11 reads
A reflection on how FFA transformed a nervous freshman into a confident leader who found purpose, passion and a second family through agriculture.
A World Beyond the Trees: Texas FFA Members Attend the Neasloney Wildlife Field Day
Layton Ervin · Jun 23, 2026 · 28 reads
Texas FFA members explore the world of wildlife and ecology through the Neasloney Wildlife Field Day.
Finding My Voice Through FFA: A Journey of Growth, Leadership and Agriculture
Lauren Anson · Jun 18, 2026 · 21 reads
FFA in the USA Reporter Lauren Anson joined FFA shy and unsure of where she belonged. It became the place where she found her courage, her passion and a version of herself she never expected.
Interconnected: Texas State Officers Visit 98th Annual California State Conference
Neha Deepthy Clement · Jun 15, 2026 · 19 reads
Hear about Texas State Officer Carlos Guerra's experience at the 98th California FFA State Conference.
Life’s a Dance You Learn as You Go
Karly Anderson · Jun 15, 2026 · 5 reads
FFA in the USA Reporter Karly Anderson reflects on her years in FFA, as she unzips her blue jacket for the last time.
Morgan Wilde: Leading With Heart and Serving With Purpose
Isabella Warner · May 29, 2026 · 21 reads
Discover how Morgan Wilde leads with purpose, uplifts others and embodies the value of premier leadership in the National FFA Organization.
“Doing to Learn” Is More Than Just a Motto
Jewels Pradt · May 29, 2026 · 216 reads
In New Mexico, the Grants FFA Chapter inspired students through agriculture presentations while developing leadership skills.
From Waste to Growth, and From Growth to Giving
Hayden Pascua · May 29, 2026 · 14 reads
Hawaii’s Maʻona Community Garden shows how circular, community-driven farming can reduce food insecurity and waste.
Passing the Torch: Meet the Central Region Officers From the North Area
Kate Cooper · May 29, 2026 · 17 reads
This year, there are four individuals representing the North Area on the Central Region Officer Team. Take a look at their unique stories!
Passing the Torch: Meet the Central Region Officer From the South Area
Kate Cooper · May 29, 2026 · 20 reads
The South Area is represented by four individuals on the 2026-27 Central Region Officer Team. Take a look at their message for this year!
Jael Cruikshank: My FFA Journey
Dominic Briceno · May 27, 2026 · 229 reads
Follow Western Region Vice President Jael Cruikshank's journey through FFA.
Leading Through Change: California State Advisor’s First Year
Michael German · May 21, 2026 · 13 reads
Jill Sperling, California state FFA advisor, shares how she overcame challenges throughout her one-of-a-kind first year in the position.
