Countdown to Convention: The Power of Ag Education and FFA

Students share their experiences overcoming anxiety through opportunities provided by the National FFA Organization.

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (RFD-TV) — October marks the start of National FFA Convention month, and the countdown is officially underway with just 28 days until the big event kicks off in Indianapolis. As part of our “Countdown to Convention” series, we’re highlighting how FFA is transforming the lives of students across the country.

For many students, fitting in at school can be an overwhelming experience. However, FFA members claim that agriculture classes and joining the National FFA Organization provided them with a sense of belonging and purpose. By joining the program, students discovered opportunities for personal growth, learned valuable leadership and communication skills, and found a community that supports them.

FFA not only helps students feel connected but also opens the door to a wide range of career paths. From innovation and technology to hands-on farming and agribusiness, FFA equips the next generation of agricultural leaders with the skills to tackle future challenges and strengthen their communities.

As the convention approaches, we’ll continue to share inspiring stories from students who’ve experienced the positive impact of agricultural education and FFA. The 97th National FFA Convention runs October 29 through November 1 in Indianapolis.

Related Stories
Stream gavel-to-gavel coverage of the National Convention on our app, brought to you by Wrangler
Stream gavel-to-gavel coverage of the National Convention on our app, brought to you by Wrangler
RFD-TV tax expert Roger McEowen discusses the renewed tax provision and how cattle producers can take advantage of it to recover investments in heifer retention and herd expansion more quickly.
Rollins will also tour a small soybean operation in Iowa before her appearance at Lucas Oil Stadium.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Alissa White with American Farmland Trust joined us to provide insight into climate resilience efforts and strategies to help farmers manage weather-related risks.
University of Nebraska President Dr. Jeffrey Gold joined us to share practical health and safety guidance for managing respiratory and skin health during the winter season.
Roger McEowen with the Washburn University School of Law joined us to provide legal analysis on key cases shaping the agricultural landscape heading into the year ahead.
NASDA declared 2026 the International Year of the Woman Farmer. President Amanda Beal joins us to share NASDA’s new hub, which highlights the impact of women in agriculture worldwide.
Matt Brockman, communications director for the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo, joined us to share a preview of the upcoming event.
RFD News correspondent Frank McCaffrey reports from Texas on the ongoing water dispute and its implications for U.S. farmers.
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
Twisted Skillet brings a straightforward, hands-on approach to kitchen television, rooted in food and fire. Hosted by Texas chef Sean Koehler, the series explores open-fire outdoor cooking techniques, regional ingredients, and the people who raise, prepare, and inspire the food found across America.
Brought to you by Gus Arrendale & Springer Mountain Farms, join dynamic bluegrass duo Dailey & Vincent as they welcome scores of fabulous bluegrass, country, and gospel music acts as special guests. Loads of laughs, your favorite guests galore, and lots of good times are guaranteed. Don’t miss all the fun!
Enjoy traditional country music from modern-day troubadours The Malpass Brothers. Each episode stars the brother duo of Chris & Taylor Malpass along with a featured celebrity guest– and loads of clever humor.
FarmHER + RanchHER on RFD-TV is working to change how people perceive a farmer by sharing the stories of the women who live and lead in agriculture.
The affable and unassuming international singing star Daniel O’Donnell is one of Ireland’s best known performers – from Australia to Alaska.