Twenty-two members of the Riverton Parke FFA chapter had the opportunity to attend the 94th National FFA Convention held in Indianapolis from October 27th to 29th. FFA members had the opportunity to explore various sectors of the agriculture industry, further develop their leadership potential, and meet FFA members from all across the country. On Wednesday, members took part in a “Behind the Scenes” Tour of the Oceans Exhibit at the Indianapolis Zoo. Later that afternoon, members were able to experience the FFA Expo Hall where more than 250 exhibitors representing agricultural businesses, colleges, fundraising opportunities, the U.S. Armed Services, and auto and truck manufacturers were set up. Students were able to interact with these various professionals to discover agricultural careers they may be interested in and explore other postsecondary opportunities. In the evening, members attended the 1st General Session of the convention where they heard keynote speaker, Courtenay DeHoff (Fancy Lady Cowgirl), share about how being true to herself has been key to her success. On Thursday, members started the day by completing a Breakout Room. In order to “breakout”, members had to work together to complete a series of tasks from various clues found throughout the room. Again in the afternoon, members explored the Expo Hall, and they also had the opportunity to attend a Student Workshop. Students chose which workshop they attended and members chose workshops about mastering their habits and being advocates for agriculture. The day ended by attending the 3rd General Session where members heard the National FFA Southern Region Vice President, Artha Jonassaint, give her retiring address. On Friday, members explored the FFA Expo Hall in the morning and attended another Student Workshop which included the topics of entrepreneurship and leadership. In the afternoon, students attended the 5th General Session where they learned about various activities that can be incorporated at the local chapter level. Later that evening, members attended the World’s Toughest Rodeo at the State Fairgrounds. The Riverton Parke FFA Advisors are Micah Humphreys and Michaela Woods.
Pictured at the National FFA Convention include, in front from left: Emily Adams, Katie Watson, Rhylie Cannon, Kenzie Travis, Hadley Newman, Jake Haase, Brayden Griffin, Emma Ugoletti, Kenzie Mundell, Mary Pruitt, and Izzy Suggs. In the back are: Alexis Fisher, Sophie Sanders, Thomasina Archey, Katilynn Koch, Leah Clark, Sarah Brown, Ray Brown, Wyatt Koch, Collin Watson, Annie Campbell, and Colton Suggs.