Countdown to Convention: Exciting Activities Await Students at The 98th Annual National FFA Convention

National FFA Organization Chief Program Officer Christine White previews the programs and activities planned for this year’s FFA Convention.

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (RFD-TV) — Upwards of 70,000 people from across the country are preparing to travel to Indianapolis this month for the 98th National FFA Convention & Expo. As our Countdown to Countdown continues, anticipation is building for what promises to be one of the most dynamic gatherings in the organization’s history.

Christine White, Chief Program Officer for the National FFA Organization, joined us on Friday’s Market Day Report to share a preview of this year’s event.

In her interview with RFD-TV News, White discussed the vast array of programming and activities planned—from leadership workshops to the highly anticipated keynote sessions—designed to inspire and equip the next generation of agricultural leaders. She also emphasized that this year’s convention is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of the future of agriculture and the thousands of young leaders who are driving innovation and growth in the industry.

As excitement builds toward the opening gavel on October 29, White shared what she’s personally most looking forward to as FFA members, advisors, alumni, and supporters come together to celebrate leadership, education, and service in agriculture. Finally, she also highlighted the economic and community impact the convention has on Indianapolis, noting the significant boost to local businesses and the lasting partnerships formed through the gathering.

Related Stories
Prompt removal of Christmas trees and careful handling of decorations reduce winter fire risk during an already high-demand season for emergency services.
AFBF Economist Faith Parum provides analysis and perspective on the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program—what commodity growers should know and potential remedies for producers facing crop losses where that aid falls short.
Federal nutrition policy is signaling a stronger demand for whole foods produced by U.S. farmers and ranchers. Consumer-facing guidance favors animal protein, but institutional demand may change little under existing saturated fat limits.
Farmer Bridge payments are being used primarily to reduce debt and protect cash flow, not drive new spending. Curt Blades with the Association of Equipment Manufacturers joined us to provide insight into the ag equipment market and the factors influencing sales.
University of Nebraska President Dr. Jeffrey Gold joined us to share insights on building healthy habits and improving rural health in the year ahead.
Dr. Rosslyn Biggs with the Oklahoma State University Center for Rural Veterinary Medicine shares insight into biosecurity, preparedness, and animal health concerns facing livestock producers as New World screwworm outbreaks continue in Mexico.
As the new year begins, both farmers and rural families are taking stock of their finances and planning ahead for 2026.
Roger McEowen with the Washburn University School of Law joined us to provide legal insight and context on these issues facing agriculture. Today, he discusses pesticide litigation.

Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
Discover the untold stories of farm families across the United States as they face tough decisions, adapt in unexpected ways, and fight to secure a future — for the next generation to carry on the farm. This unscripted documentary-style TV show follows the lives of ambitious farmers from diverse backgrounds across the US, highlighting the challenges, triumphs, and unique stories of these farmers as they navigate the world of agriculture.
Mecum delivers the auction action to tractor fans everywhere, offering an unparalleled array of vintage and collectible tractors ranging from entry-level collector tractors that sell for a few thousand dollars to high-end, ultra-rare machines!
The internationally-known “King of Polka,” 18-time Grammy award winner for “Best Polka Album,” and bandleader of arguably the most popular polka band in America—Jimmy Sturr—is taking to the stage for another slate of shows made for his fans and polka lovers across the country.
Madison Brown grew up on the road and now invites viewers to follow along with her as she continues to indulge her love of exploring new places, including behind-the-scenes at big events and tourist attractions, and celebrity interviews with the likes of country star Toby Keith, former NBA player Karl Malone, former MLB pitcher Greg Maddux, and “Brady Bunch” star Christopher Knight (Brown’s uncle).
Filmed in front of a live audience at the historic Lyric Theatre in Lexington, Kentucky, “WoodSongs Old-Time Radio Hour” features an eclectic array of popular artists from genres of folk, blues, country, jazz, new-age, and rock.