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
Weston Brown joined us on Monday in the RFD-TV Studios in Nashville to share how he is preparing for the upcoming National FFA Convention & Expo.
Missouri Director of Agriculture Chris Chinn joined us Monday to share highlights from Secretary Brooke Rollins’ visit and her perspective on USDA’s new initiatives.
Chad Rezniek with the Colorado AgrAbility Project joined us as part of National Farm Safety and Health Week to discuss the growing need for behavioral health support in rural communities.
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer joined us on Friday’s Market Day Report to break down what this extension means for affected ranchers.
Waiting could risk leaving next year’s crop unprotected.
Speaking about his administration’s tariff strategy, Trump acknowledged that producers could face financial strain in the short term but promised stopgap support.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

CoBank Knowledge Exchange’s Jeff Johnston shares the group’s positive perspective on expanding data centers into rural areas and weighs the risks and rewards for those communities.
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer discusses how January’s WASDE report could impact ARC and PLC payments and updates on disaster relief programs as farmers navigate a challenging market environment.
Texas Commissioner of Agriculture Sid Miller joined us to discuss data center expansion, farmland preservation, rural economic impacts, and imminent cattle biosecurity concerns affecting agriculture today.
The Pennsylvania Farm Show continues through Saturday, wrapping up another successful year of celebrating agriculture in the Commonwealth.
Shaun Haney joined us to discuss Canada’s new trade agreement with China, the potential impact on farmers and exporters, and what it could mean for U.S.–Canada trade relations going forward.
National Corn Growers Association Chief Economist Krista Swanson discusses corn supply pressures, market fundamentals, policy considerations, and producer outlook for the year ahead.
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
Opry Live is the premier weekly broadcast and livestream of the Grand Ole Opry, featuring country music superstars, legends, and rising talent performing on stage in Nashville.
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.
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.
Join popular polka performer Mollie Busta as she hosts the weekly “Mollie B Polka Party” on RFD Network! The one-hour program features the nation’s top polka bands and a wide variety of ethnic styles, recorded on location at music festivals across the country.
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!