FFA Today: Illinois Student Leaders Prepare for 98th State Convention

Illinois FFA President Natalie Pratt reflects on a year serving members across the state and plans for the state’s upcoming conference.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (RFD News) — The 98th annual Illinois FFA State Convention is just around the corner, bringing thousands of members together in Springfield.

Illinois FFA President Natalie Pratt joined us on Monday’s FFA Today to talk about her year serving members across the state and what students can expect at this year’s convention.

In her conversation with RFD News, Pratt shared what she is most looking forward to and why the event is such a memorable experience for first-time attendees. She also shared about her family’s history within the National FFA Organization and how that legacy influenced her decision to pursue a state officer role.

Finally, Pratt highlighted some of the moments she is most proud of from her year as state president.

Related Stories
North Dakota FFA President Cole Anderson joins us to discuss the upcoming state convention, leadership lessons, and what FFA means to students across the state.
Hulse discusses leadership, college life and what members can expect at this year’s convention.
Members from across the state will gather for competitions, workshops and leadership opportunities.
“Flat FFA members” help students share life and agriculture across states
The fourth-generation owner of Georgia’s Arena Acres cultivated a love for floral arts in FFA on a family farm passed down through generations.
SAE programs help FFA students build skills beyond the classroom.

Knoxville native Neal Burnette-Irwin is a graduate from MTSU where he majored in Journalism and Entertainment Studies. He works as a digital content producer with RFD News and is represented by multiple talent agencies in Nashville and Chicago.


LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Large animal vets say the parasite is now showing up in regions where it historically has not been common.
For more than 70 years, The Pancake Shop has served sausage supplied by the Hawthorn family’s meat operation.
Smith’s Farm Market now draws visitors with produce, flowers, and homemade ice cream.
Ashley Stockwell discusses representing dairy farmers during one of motorsports’ most recognizable traditions.
Artists from around the world are finding inspiration in the quiet pace of Nebraska’s prairie landscape.
Ag Commissioner Sid Miller and Rep. Henry Cuellar say rising costs and generational shifts are making it harder to keep young producers in the industry.