FFA Leadership Conference reflects promising future for ag

The state FFA Leadership Conference saw a record turnout, reflecting a promising future for California agriculture. This year, 7,416 middle and high school students attended the event at the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center.

“Membership grew to over 103,000 statewide this year, and the conference is keeping pace,” said Katie Otto, executive director of development for the California FFA Foundation. “Thanks in part to sponsors like Farm Credit, we can make sure that FFA has the ability to enhance opportunities for the students and to support our chapters.”

Jacob DeBoer of American AgCredit noted that Farm Credit’s sponsorship helps fund scholarships and awards.

“Farm Credit knows FFA members represent the future of ag in California, which is why we are currently committed to providing $250,000 over five years to help FFA fulfill its mission,” he said.

The four-day conference featured awards for ag related activities, scholarships, educational workshops, and a career expo. Otto attributed FFA’s success to dedicated high school ag teachers, citing her own transformative experience with FFA.

Kevin Ralph of AgWest Farm Credit highlighted FFA’s diverse educational opportunities, which include pathways in agricultural business, agriscience, and more.

Next year’s conference will be held April 3-6 in Sacramento, with registration opening Dec. 1.