Arizona FFA Attends the 84th National FFA Convention!

Submitted by Tyler Grandil

Nearly 500 Arizona students recently returned from the 84th National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, IN. While at the convention, these students joined over 56,000 other students from all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. While in Indianapolis, these students attended large general sessions complete with an elaborate stage set, lights and music. Sessions include notable keynote speakers, awards and recognition, performances by the National FFA Band & Chorus (which included 4 of our Arizona students), national officer speeches and more.

Many students competed in Career Development Events (CDEs). Arizona members, along with other students from across the country, qualified for competition in these national events by winning at the state level. Events include public speaking, agricultural mechanics, livestock and food product judging and took place at the Indiana State Fairgrounds, downtown hotels and remote locations as far away as Champaign, Illinois. Arizona was represented well by its students and was fortunate this year in bringing back 14 Bronze, 5 Silver and 3 Gold team medals. The individual recognition was just as notable with 28 Bronze, 18 Silver and 5 Gold medalists. This year, Arizona FFA had 18 American Degree recipients and two of our teachers were Honorary American Degree recipients. In the Agriscience Fair competition, two of our Arizona students were the National winners for Zoology—Division Four. Six of our FFA chapters were National Chapter Finalists.

In addition, each state sent voting delegates who follow parliamentary procedure in considering delegate issues and vote on important organizational initiatives. Students and advisors alike enjoyed attending the FFA National Agricultural Career Show. Housed at the Indiana Convention Center, the career show covered more than 260,000 square feet and attracted more than 400 exhibitors including businesses, industry, colleges and universities. Participate in educational tours throughout the state of Indiana.