Illustration: Getty Images, albertc111
Now in its second year, the FFA in the USA reporters program provides opportunities for selected chapter and state reporters to flourish creatively. By interviewing sources, writing articles, creating photo slideshows and producing videos — all of which are published on FFA.org — these talented communicators and journalists are honing their craft, one story at a time. Fresh content is posted each month, so learn more about this year’s group of reporters and share your story ideas.
This exclusive and expanded story features a fun twist on the beloved FFA in the USA section that began in 2017.
WESTERN REGION
The 2024-25 National FFA Western Region Vice President Abigale Jacobsen is an Elk Grove FFA Alumna from California.
By Trent Oney, Washington
Recognizing the important role of daffodils as a symbol of hope in their community, Sumner FFA members created interactive lessons about them for elementary students. “We wanted to give them a tactile experience,” says Maria Montoya, the chapter’s advisor. These activities cover topics ranging from planting bulbs to growth patterns, the flower’s life cycle and more.
Sumner FFA members Cortlynn Joyce (far left), Tessie Stockwell (second from left), Lainey Orm (center), DaniRose Huss (second from right) and Olivia Anderson (far right) smile in front of daffodils planted in their hometown. Photo courtesy of Trent Oney.
By Madison Kenyon, New Mexico
The annual “Dora Fun Night” facilitates camaraderie and community involvement. Funds raised support future Dora FFA Chapter activities as well as members and teams competing in events throughout the year.
By Joleena Ibarra, California
One of the Sherman Indian FFA Chapter’s newest events is creating avenues for collaboration and cultural understanding. A bracket-style competition features traditional Native American games that have been passed through generations.
By Sarah Jones, Idaho
The North Upper Snake River District officer team encouraged members to participate in social media challenges featuring a special twist. A rubber chicken named “Patricia” was awarded to chapters with the greatest online engagement during FFA events and activities.
SOUTHERN REGION
The 2024-25 National FFA Southern Region Vice President Jack Lingenfelter is a Coffee High FFA Alumnus from Georgia.
By Haley Parsons, Georgia
Oconee FFA and North Oconee FFA partnered to clean up a local wildlife preserve. From digging up roots to transporting weeds and overgrown plants, members worked together to promote environmental growth and protection.
By Kalem Hall, Mississippi
Hamilton FFA isn’t just building skills — it’s driving innovation and cultivating change. The chapter encourages all members to pursue their passions, including welding, and partners with a local, family-owned company to provide supplies, guidance and scholarships.
Kinsley Spearman (left), Macy Aycock (center) and Claudia Hughes (right) participate in welding as Hamilton FFA members. Photo courtesy of Kalem Hall.
By Andrea Blaha, Florida
Deltona Sr. FFA created a “lock in” event for members to mingle, play games and eat food together. East Coast Federation FFA officers helped facilitate activities, and Deltona Middle School FFA members were also invited to join the fun.
By Sara Hinson, Arkansas
Several FFA advisors recently made it their mission to help members and chapters explore the career and leadership development events offered statewide. They host an annual mock competition, which serves as an opportunity to ask questions and share valuable knowledge.
CENTRAL REGION
The 2024-25 National FFA Central Region Vice President Mary Schrieber is an East Troy FFA Alumna from Wisconsin.
By Lily Bingaman, Montana
In their hometown of 2,000 people, Conrad FFA members are carrying on tradition by hosting the “Conrad Crops and Mechanics Seminar.” Twenty-eight chapters from around the state traveled this year to learn about aspects of agriculture and interact with industry professionals.
By Wyatt Lesmeister, South Dakota
The Gettysburg FFA Chapter partners current members with youth interested in raising livestock. The project begins in the spring, then culminates with a show and premium sale held during the Porter County Fair. Participants learn about responsibility, animal care and food production through hands-on experiences focused in agriculture.
Gettysburg FFA members and participating elementary and middle school students received custom T-shirts to celebrate 20 years of the project. Photo courtesy of Wyatt Lesmeister.
Recruitment Day in Cougar County
By Lynlee McCurry, Oklahoma
Each February, Oklahoma Union FFA officers spend a morning welcoming students to school and sharing FFA experiences as a way to build interest in the chapter. Members also host a “day in the life” experience at its agriculture building and serve lunch to potential members.
By Jordan Berg, Wisconsin
Chapters across the state found unique ways to celebrate the blue and gold. From teacher appreciation breakfasts to ice fishing competitions, alumni cornhole tournaments, trivia nights, school-wide assemblies and more, the possibilities were endless.
EASTERN REGION
The 2024-25 National FFA Eastern Region Vice President Caroline Groth is a Locust Trace FFA Alumna from Kentucky.
Stitching Communities Through Service
By Miru Kunst, Massachusetts
Norfolk FFA collaborated with “A Stitch Toward the Future,” a service-learning project focused on combining fiber arts and agricultural education. In three hours, members and supporters used donated materials, including fabric, to complete seven quilt tops. These were donated to a local resource center, and their efforts were featured on the evening news.
Past Norfolk FFA officers Miru Kunst (left), Gabriella Pannone (middle) and Jaxon Sennott (right) display their completed quilt tops. Photo courtesy of Miru Kunst.
By Grace Conley, Kentucky
To help members understand the importance of recording events and successes, as well as inspire new ideas, Bourbon County FFA creates chapter scrapbooks. These projects connect the chapter’s history to the present day and can be enjoyed for years to come.
By Savannah Cycholl, Illinois
One thousand water balloons and an 84-degree day in August were the ingredients for the Olney FFA Chapter’s water balloon event. Ninety-three members wrapped up the summer with outdoor games focused on fostering team-building, decision-making and problem-solving skills.
By Grace Routhier, Maine
With help from state officers and the Maine FFA Alumni Association, participating members dove into workshops about parliamentary procedure, the FFA Creed and Official Dress. To round out the event, everyone gathered for karaoke and dancing.
