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.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Traders are keeping a close eye on China’s soybean purchases as markets track export sales, shipments, and progress toward the ‘magical’ 12 million ton target promised last year.
Leadership development and bipartisan engagement remain central to advancing agriculture’s priorities in 2026.
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.
In a post to social media, Trump said Venezuela will buy American agriculture products and will use the money from oil sales to make it happen.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!