WHAT IS FFA A guide to the organization

WHAT IS FFA? A guide to the organization that can help you succeed!

FFA � Formerly known as The Future Farmers of America, the FFA changed it’s name to the National FFA Organization in 1988 � As of 2008, there are 507, 763 FFA members, aged 12 -21 in 7, 439 chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands

Motto Learning to Do, Doing to Learn, Earning to Live, Living to Serve.

WOW! � The FFA is the largest student-led organization in the US. � Through Career Development Events (CDEs) and Supervised Agricultural Experiences (SAEs) student have the opportunity to win awards and $$$$

History � In 1928 during the National Livestock Judging Contests, 33 students from 18 states establish the FFA to provide leadership training for high school students of vocational agriculture (now known as Career and Technical Education).

More History � In 1929 the official colors-national blue and corn gold-are adopted. They are still used today! � In 1935 New Farmers of America (NFA), an organization for African-American boys interested in agriculture, is formed and eventually includes 13 states

Merging � 1965 - The New Farmers of America (NFA), merges with the FFA, adding 50, 000 members. � 1969 - Women are allowed national membership, which made it possible for them to hold office and participate in competitive events at the regional and national level.

Name change � 1988 - National FFA convention change "Future Farmers of America" to the "National FFA Organization" to recognize the growth of agriculture and agricultural education to encompass the more than 300 careers in the science, business and technology of agriculture.

Same year (‘ 88) � Delegates also opened FFA membership to middle school students. � I was two years old at the time…

Activity time! � Get together with 1 partner and discuss what you remember (or wrote down) about FFA history. Try to get it in chronological order!

FFA Officers � The President �The president presides over the chapter like in any other organization. They follow parliamentary procedure and keep business flowing. They are the head hancho! Appo FFA President- Sarah Cannon

Symbol � The Rising Sun �The rising sun is the token of a new era in agriculture.

FFA Officers � The Vice President �The vice president assists the president and can substitute in the president’s absence. The vice president is usually in charge of committees. Appo FFA Vice President- Jessica Voshell

Symbol � The Plow �The plow is the symbol of labor and tillage of the soil. Without labor, neither knowledge nor wisdom can accomplish much.

FFA Officers � The Secretary �The secretary keeps record of all meetings and disseminates information to members and other chapters. Mr. S as high school Secretary Appo FFA Secretary- Kacie Schmeck

Symbol � The Ear of Corn �The ear of corn represents the passing of information across the country, as it is a crop that is found across the US.

FFA Officers � The Treasurer �The treasurer is the money manager. They keep a record of all transactions and maintain the chapter’s finances. Appo FFA Treasurer- Andrea Mack

Symbol � Emblem of Washington �George Washington represents thriftiness. He kept accurate records of all receipts and transactions, thus he is a model for the treasurer to follow.

FFA Officers � The Reporter �The reporter serves as the photographer as well as the Public Relations person. They send out information to the local media to gain support for the chapter. Appo FFA Reporter- Jamie Betts

Symbol � The American Flag �"As the flag covers the United States of America, so I strive to inform the people in order that every man, woman and child may know that the FFA is a national organization that reaches from the state of Alaska to Puerto Rico and from the state of Maine to Hawaii. "

FFA Officers � The Sentinel �The sentinel creates the atmosphere amongst members and officers in meetings. The sentinel is essentially the host; keeping everything in order and providing a safe, fun, and enjoyable environment. Appo FFA Sentinel- Courtney Masterson

Symbol � The Door �Everyone comes through the door, where the sentinel is stationed to welcome all who pass. This sets the stage for a personable experience.

FFA Officers � The Advisor �The advisor assists the group whenever they request it. The FFA is student-led, thus a student advisor may be appointed to give additional insight. Appo Student Advisor- D. J. Greener

Symbol � The Owl �The owl represents wisdom. An advisor is said to possess great wisdom that can aide the chapter whenever called upon. The advisor is ever watchful, like an owl, as well. Appo FFA Advisors Mr. S and Ms. W

FFA Officers � Parliamentarian �The parliamentarian aides the chapter when it come to their meeting style. They must know proper “Parley Pro” or Parliamentary Procedure. Appo FFA Parliamentarian- William Sweetman

FFA Officers � Historian �The historian is in charge of maintaining the records of the chapter. In the past, this was done through a record book. Today, technology helps greatly. The historian works with the Reporter in making the scrapbook and publishing a website. Appo FFA Historian- Chad Collier

FFA Officers � Chaplain �A side office created for the sole purpose of maintaining thanks and reflection for the bountiful opportunities awarded to all. The position commonly leads prayers– be it religious or otherwise.

HOLD UP! � Where are the symbols for the parliamentarian, historian, and the chaplain? � In all honesty, they don’t get one! � Historically these positions didn’t hold as much weight as the main ones, so they didn’t warrant a separate symbol or opening procedure.

Team up time! � In groups of 3 -4, get together and decide what office you think you would enjoy/be best at. Write down why you think so and present to class. Back up your reasoning, because someone might think they are better suited for that position!