Darrell Holden continues to stay connected to FFA and carry on his family’s cattle ranching traditions. Photo courtesy of Darrell Holden.
Few people embody the spirit of FFA quite like Darrell Holden. A rancher, electrician and cowboy poet from Utah, Holden’s life reflects the same dedication, honesty and heart found in the FFA Creed. He’s a man of his word — and someone who’s never forgotten where those words first took root.
An alum of the Tooele FFA Chapter in Utah, Holden learned many important lessons throughout his time in the blue jacket. For him, FFA was the “highlight of high school,” giving him confidence he didn’t know he had and instilling values of hard work and dedication. He took advantage of FFA competitions such as livestock judging and parliamentary procedure, and his advisors, Leland Beckstrom and Lynn Wyatt, helped shape him into the man he is today.
After high school, Holden pursued a career as an electrician. Working for an electrical contractor affiliated with the U.S. Air Force allowed him to use his skills to help support those who are serving our country.
On top of his busy career, he spends plenty of time ranching these days. As part of the fifth generation of ranchers in his family, Holden happily claims that there was “no choice” but to join this endeavor. For him, ranching is not about the money or the career, but about the connection with the land and animals.
“My payment is the mornings I’ve gotten to be in a saddle as the sun comes up,” he adds.
Holden’s point of view from the saddle. Photo courtesy of Darrell Holden.
More Than Words
Although Holden grew up around cowboy poetry (a style of storytelling that shares tales about the Western way of life), writing it never crossed his mind until Scott McKendrick, a Tooele FFA Alum and Utah State University professor, visited his FFA chapter his freshman year and recited a few original poems.
Soon after, Holden began to dabble with poetry, writing for his own enjoyment and reflection. However, about a decade ago, his wife and children insisted he begin to share his poetry with the world.
Holden’s community includes Matt Robertson (far left), Annie McKenzie (second from left) and Dana Worth (second from right), his friends and fellow cowboy poets. Photo courtesy of Darrell Holden.
Still an active supporter and admirer of FFA, Holden wrote his 2023 poem, “I Believe,” based on the FFA values he still holds dear. He encourages young FFA members learning about the FFA Creed for the first time to realize that it is more than just words. Holden shows this in the following excerpt of his poem:
It’s faith and it’s work and it’s struggle.
But it’s joy not found other ways.
It’s compassion for animals and it’s stewardship,
Along with the long hours and long days.
Past, Present and Future
For 95 years and counting, the FFA Creed has been recited and revered. Learn about the history behind E.M. Tiffany’s iconic words — and how they continue to inspire FFA members, advisors, alumni and supporters.
