Becoming a National FFA officer is not an easy feat. Selected candidates spend months (or years) preparing for formal interviews, presentations, workshops and more that take place during the annual National FFA Convention & Expo. For a select few, their hard work pays off and an exciting new door opens within our organization.

Here, the newly elected 2025-26 national officers share what they learned about themselves — and how they grew — through the process.

Trey Myers, National FFA President 

First, this process taught me to have the capacity to endure. It also showed me the importance of leaning on other people. I learned everything we want in life is on the other side of vulnerability, and that comparison is the thief of joy. Slowing down is sometimes the best way to move forward. Finally, reading is an extremely underrated tool for development!

Lilly Nyland, National FFA Secretary 

FFA and AFNRE (Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources Education) continue to amaze me. Through prep, I grew my knowledge of the endless opportunities within them. This was made possible by a community that formed around me. They showed me that every weakness is also a strength and reminded me of the importance of authenticity. Reflecting on my time in FFA, I gained a deeper understanding of who I am and why I’m passionate about being a light.

Claire Woeppel, Central Region Vice President

The months leading up to national convention were full of personal growth. I grew in persistence, keeping the end goal in mind. Time management was a priority between classes, events, preparation and spending time with friends and family. I learned to completely trust the process through challenges and triumphs. I gained incredible friends and mentors, learned how to communicate what was on my heart, and found power in trying, failing and trying again!  

Joey Nowotny, Eastern Region Vice President

My growth started by understanding my past and how it led me to where I am today. I discovered my personal mission and the values that drive me forward. I learned how I best take in information and grow. I became confident in sharing my story while deeply listening to others. I learned to appreciate the people who challenge and support me, to trust in a greater plan and to embrace imperfection as part of lifelong growth.

Jael Cruikshank, Western Region Vice President

During the prep months, I gained a deeper understanding of the agricultural industry by learning from the people who make it work. During the process, I learned to focus on what I could control rather than what I couldn’t. Across both stages, I grew in self-awareness, strengthened my communication skills, developed greater gratitude, and built discipline and consistency in how I showed up each day.

T. Wayne Williams, Southern Region Vice President

The pursuit of a national FFA office didn’t just stretch me; it transformed me. It strengthened my discipline and deepened my appreciation for those who believed in me. I gained a stronger understanding of agricultural education and the issues shaping our industry. Through every high and low, I grew in integrity. I learned to lead with vulnerability and built resilience.

A Year of Service
These six individuals are tasked with leading our organization in the year ahead. Get to know each officer and access a full list of past national officers, then explore the paths to becoming a national officer and joining the nominating committee.