Embrace Change

As officers, my teammates and I have a few different outfits we change in and out of for events and conferences.  Whenever we are going to go to change clothes, my team and I have a saying that we are eager to share. It goes a little like this:

Me: “Hey guys, I’m going to change.”

Team: “DON’T CHANGE WE LIKE YOU JUST THE WAY YOU ARE!!”

We always enjoy the chance to have a little fun with each other and have a good laugh. However, the more I think about it, I come up with a question: What’s so bad about change?

Let’s just unpack this for a second. After a quick search via Siri, (thanks Siri for listening to me for once), we can find that change is a verb that means to make or become different. It gives examples of the stoplight changing from green to red or the seasons changing from summer to fall. The simple definition makes change seem like it’s not that big of a deal, when really it can be a huge deal.

Change is a part of life. Almost everywhere you look, you can see some type of change. The crops growing and then drying, the sun changing position in the sky as the day goes by, and even the changing weather. The same goes for people as well and all aspects of our life. Let’s say that you are going to change your profile picture on some type of social media. You may be doing it because you have a really neat picture that you want to show off or represent you, or maybe you want to show off your support to something like a movement (#FFAproud y’all), or you haven’t changed it in like four years so you feel it just needs to happen. Whatever that reason, you are driven to change. It’s no different than those crops or the sun or weather, they also have a reason for changing. Makes sense, right?

So why is change so scary?

Recently I had the opportunity to travel back home for a few chapter visits to schools in my area.  When I walked into my door for the first time in months, there was my mom in the kitchen, my dad in the family room watching football, my cat patiently waiting for me by the door, and the sheep sleeping outside in the pasture. It seems as if everything was back to the way it was before I had left: like I was just coming home from work or an FFA event. I headed back to my bright orange and blue colored room that I thought was the coolest middle school, my bed waiting to be sat on and hear all the latest gossip, and finally my desk awaiting me with the mail I had missed while away. I gave a quick glance over my desk and saw my September edition of Vogue, a few bank statements, and something larger that grabbed my attention. It was the yearbook from my senior year.

On the cover I saw some of my old friends, as well as myself posing awfully cheesily. I opened up the book and took it to Chase to show him all that I had done in my crazy year as a senior in high school. There were the marching band performances on Friday nights, the dances that I helped plan and judge the fashion at, the student sections at all the basketball games, the FBLA trips and competitions, all of my amazing times at the many speech competitions I loved so dearly, many different involvements in FFA, and even more. I saw a quote from me about how I felt about the finals that everyone dreads, and it was about how I needed to ace my calc test otherwise I was going to die. Chase and I laughed at the quote and my cheesy face pictured and I said, “That’s definitely something I would’ve said last year.”

That made me stop laughing and think for a minute. What do I mean by “last year?” Have I really changed that much in just a year?

Later on that night, I got to finally go and hug my sheep. This was a huge moment with a few tears because my sheep had been my world growing up, and not being able to see them every day had been a little bit of an adjustment. Oscar (my Oxford ram who is about up to my chest in height) put that to an end pretty quick when he knocked me down and started chewing my hair. I did my rounds and finally ended on Oscar’s mother, Pepper. She always wanted a hug from me. But not that night. She just walked away. She probably was just in one of her moods or tired, but I again thought, “Have I changed that much that Pepper doesn’t recognize me?”

As I was going through the yearbook once again later that night, I decided to take it back even further and started looking at pictures on Facebook. I looked all the way back to my freshman year of High School and it was easy to see that I was not the same person. But as I kept thinking about it, I realized that it doesn’t have to be a bad thing. The experiences that I had built me into the person that I am today. There were times where it seemed like I had hit rock bottom and there were times that I felt like I was on a mountain top, but all of those experiences taught me who I wanted to be. change was something that I needed to grow as an individual. If I hadn’t changed, I wouldn’t be at a college that I love learning about something that I am passionate about.

Think of how you’ve changed. What aspects of your life has changed? Are you the same person you were last year? What experiences caused that change in your life? They may have seemed scary at the time, but now you can look back and see how it turned out to be a good thing.

Change is scary because you aren’t sure what the future holds. But I can tell you that you can handle it. I promise. The only hard part of change is the fact that you are scared. Change is happening all around you even in the simplest of ways, so make the most of it.

I will leave you with one of my all-time favorite quotes. “One of the happiest moments of your life is when you find the courage to let go of what you can’t change. Rather than being afraid of change, embrace it and become who you want to be.”

Zach Hamilton

State Reporter

Strive for Progress, Not Perfection

Nobody is perfect. It is something we have all heard thousands of time, but for some reason most of us ignore the phrase completely. I am one of them. Although I know that nobody is perfect, I strive for perfection on a daily basis, and lately I have realized that being a perfectionist, isn’t always perfect.

It all started at a very early age. In school we were taught that mistakes were bad. Mistakes were things marked with a red ink pen, and I learned to hate red ink pen. I never wanted to see red ink marked on my neatly written papers, so I worked hard, trying to make everything perfect. This “perfect’’ attitude is something I have carried with me my whole life.

I was only 456 hours in office when I was asked to pick a quote to live by this next year; a quote that had meaning to me, and could serve as a token to live out this next year while serving the 14,734 members of the Iowa FFA Association. I chose the quote “Strive for progress, not perfection.” This really stuck with me, and as the day went on, I thought more about it.

Too often we get caught up on the little things. We either over-dramatize mediocre things or underplay the most important. We take too long to do the simple things, taking time away from something with more meaning. Too often we get caught up trying to meet the needs of all the people around us that we don’t take care of ourselves. We may be perfectionists, but we need to be striving to make progress.

Perfection in itself is not a bad thing. A perfectionist is defined as a person who refuses to accept any standard short of perfection. If we don't strive to do something well and give the best possible result, then what's the point? Right?

We need to focus more on progress, rather than perfection. Progress is defined as the forward or onward movement toward a destination. One can move forward or onward, but without perfection, are they really moving forward in the right direction? It is all about finding a balance. I urge you to find the balance in your life, by striving for perfect progress.

Savannah Keitzer

Southeast State Vice President

Subtle Influence

I want to start by telling you a story from April of my freshman year in high school. I was sitting in the Memorial Union on the Iowa State campus with some members of my FFA chapter after the barbecue during State Leadership Conference. I had been on the phone calling some family and friends about how I did in the Creed Speaking contest earlier that day, and the last person I needed to talk to was my dad. As I was getting off the phone with him, I ended by saying, “Thanks Dad, have a good night, I love you.” I didn’t realize that everyone had quieted down and was listening to me as I wrapped up the conversation. Once I put the phone down and looked up at everyone, a person in the group kind of laughed and said, “Why did you tell your dad that you loved him?” I answered by saying, “I don’t know when it is going to be the last time I talk to him, so I am going to tell the people I care about what they mean to me when I have the chance.” Needless to say, everyone got pretty quiet, and no one else said anything to me about it.

Now, this isn’t the part of the story I want to focus on today. Rather, I am going to look at something that happened a few weeks later because of that story. I was sitting in the lunch room back in school when a senior walked over and asked if I had a few minutes. I got up, and we walked out into the hall where I was asked if it was alright if the story I shared with you could be used as part of the upcoming baccalaureate speech. This senior then told me that what I said really meant a lot to them, and it changed their perspective on how they live their life. The following week I decided to make the trip back to school and attend the baccalaureate service just to see what was going to be said. When that senior got up on stage to give the speech, they ended by telling the story. The closing line was, “Make sure when you leave tonight to tell your mom and your dad, tell your grandma and your grandpa that you love them and tell the people that are special to you what they mean.” Needless to say, I watched most of the mothers, grandmothers, and quite a few of the dads and grandfathers walk out of the auditorium drying tears from their eyes.

For me this was a moving experience for two reasons. First, I was able to see the impact I had on someone’s life, and how because of that, they were able to share it with others in hopes of changing their lives. Secondly, it caused me to realize people are always watching you, and that even some of the simplest things can make a huge difference. Now, I am not trying to toot my own horn here, but I am hoping that if you take one thing from this, it is that every day, you do things that make a difference in the lives of someone around you. Even though you will probably never know it happened, YOU have influence in the lives of others. Every day you are making a difference in the lives of the people around you, so how are you going to live now that you know this?

Cole Moody

Northeast State Vice President

Remember Why You Started

No matter what the task at hand is, it is crucial to remember why you started. After a two week adventure at the Iowa State Fair, our State President, Elisa Russ, said four words that have rang in my head this past week, as the transition into college came into full swing. “Remember why you started.” As simple as those words may sound, if you take a few moments to fully understand what they mean to you, chances are they will stick anytime the going gets tough.

The Sunday after two weeks at the hot, stressful, action-packed Iowa State Fair, it would have been appropriate for the state officer team to sleep for the following month, but unfortunately college classes started bright and early the following morning. It would have been easy to give up and become overwhelmed while juggling so many tasks, but the state officer team remembered why they started.

On the drive home the Monday immediately following the Iowa State Fair, I found myself recalling the previous summer, and got to thinking about just how much I have changed in a short year. A year ago I was anxiously awaiting kicking off my senior year at Creston High School, with not too many worries in the world. I was serving as the Creston FFA President at the time, a chapter of about ninety. Now I am serving nearly 14,800 FFA members from across the state of Iowa as a member of the state officer team. It was incredibly humbling to take the hour and a half drive to remember why I started my journey to becoming a state officer, and also to think about the people that have made this journey the experience of a lifetime.

It is easy to keep pushing through stressful times when you take the time to remember who you are serving and why you desire to serve in the first place. When you stop and think about how your actions control your outcome, it is important to put your best effort forward always, no matter how small the task may be. As I wrap up my thoughts, I want to ask you this… When the going gets tough, will you remember why you started?

      Zach Hoffman

       South Central State Vice President

Nothing Compares to Our State Fair

This past week, the Iowa State Fair has been in full swing. The hundreds of different fried foods have been flying out of vendor’s booths, the sun is sizzling, and there has been hundreds of FFA members partaking in this historic event. The fun all started this past week with many of the FFA exhibitors coming in on Tuesday and Wednesday to bring in their pride and joy, whether it was livestock, a tractor, a picture, or a plant. Members wanted to show off all the hard work they had put into their SAE’s, and one way to do that was to exhibit at the state fair. Therefore, there were a plethora of shows filled with FFA exhibitors to watch and participate in from Tuesday to Saturday. There even is a group of over 140 members who love the fair so much that they stay for the entire fair to work as Grandstand Ushers and Free Stage attendants. They get to work all of the shows at the fair and help concert-goers to find their seats. And we of course can’t forget about all the wonderful food and different booths to visit, including the FFA display.  Needless to say, there is something for everyone at the fair. In fact, the state officers were there for it all and are here to share their favorite parts of this year’s fair!

Elisa:

One of my favorite memories of the Iowa State Fair happened at our display in the ag building.  We see quite a few people walk through the display and some even stop and ask questions or share their FFA stories with us.  On Wednesday, I had not one, but two sets of parents ask me about how their students can take agricultural education courses and be in FFA if their school doesn’t offer it.  Out of habit, I asked both sets of parents if they were former FFA members (typically this is the case because they want their child to have the same awesome experiences they had).  However, much to my surprise, none of the parents had worn the blue corduroy.  The conversation continued on as I helped them understand their opportunities, but it wasn’t until I was back standing by myself that it hit me.  Even though those parents hadn’t experienced FFA for themselves, they saw how crucial agricultural education was to helping their child succeed and wanted to give them an opportunity that they themselves didn’t have.  Easily one of the coolest moments of my Iowa State Fair.

Chase:

My favorite memory of the Iowa State Fair happened in the second week when I got the opportunity to work at the Avenue of Breeds. I’ve never owned livestock before, so when I heard I had the chance to go and help take care of some animals that night I was ecstatic! I've always wanted to learn more about raising livestock, and what better way to do it then by getting some real hands on experience! Once we got there I was really able to see all of the different breeds that they have for the public to learn more about. As it was time to close we got ready to take some of the animals out to the their tie outs for the night. I got to walk a Charolais heifer which is the first time I had ever got to walk a cow, and it was pretty fantastic if I do say so myself. After that, I was able to take a draft horse named “Gus” out for some exercise. If you didn't know those things are HUGE. One of the best parts about it was once we got out to the arena I was able to get on Gus and actually ride him around. After that I didn't think my night could get any better, but I was proven wrong. I was able to start mingling with the members of the North Polk FFA Chapter that puts on this amazing event all throughout fair. Not only did I get to learn a little more about livestock, and try some new things, but I got to spend about two hours with a great chapter while connecting with their outgoing members throughout the night that were passionate about teaching not only me, but the public about agriculture. That's a memory from my Iowa State Fair experience that I will never forget.

Blake:
The Iowa State Fair is like a huge melting pot where over a million fair food connoisseurs, concert enthusiasts, and agvocates gather together for 11 days to bask in all things Iowa, and in my two weeks at the fairgrounds, I found myself falling into all of them at least once. However, my experience at the state fair led me to one booth that unites all groups under the Iowan trademarks of food, family, and farming: the Iowa Food and Family booth located in the Varied Industries building. While volunteering my evening there, I saw a variety of fair goers young and old, from both near and far, and all were interested in how agriculture played a role in their daily lives. They were astounded to know that nearly 50% of farmers nationwide volunteer in youth organizations, and that there are only 8 genetically modified crops in production. Yet, many were able to quickly rattle off popular pork products they use on a weekly basis or the many major exports Iowa holds #1 status in. I loved having the chance to learn more about agriculture (because there is always something left to learn), but I will always remember the phrase one woman used as she left the booth, “Well, today I learned something. And that means today is a good day.”

Savannah:
My favorite memories happen in the livestock barns at the Iowa State Fair. As a youngin’ I was basically treated like an animal. My parents would put a lawn chair in an empty lamb pen, give me something to entertain myself and let me be. While they helped my sisters get their animals ready for the show, here are a couple things I managed to learn.

1. Gluing quarters to the ground and watching people try to pick them up is very entertaining. (Don’t use a dollar-People will get that thing-even if it is the last thing they do).
2. Even more entertaining than gluing quarters to the ground is dropping plastic spiders from the ceiling.
3. People HATE spiders.
4. Sleeping in a lawn chair is strangely comfortable.
5. People know you, even if you do not know them and vise versa-so behave.

This year was a little different. I was very busy trying to balance being a state officer and getting my animals ready for the show. Here is what I learned in the first few days of the 2016 Iowa State Fair.

1. Do what your sister tells you-Just do it.
2. My parents are my biggest supporters, even if I don’t always give them the credit.
3. People still HATE spiders.
4. My sister is great, but I’d never admit it.  
5. I have met the most inspiring, caring, and loving people here. Without them, I wouldn’t be the person I am today.

My favorite memory of them all made me tear up a little bit-but no worries-happy tears. I said thank you to all those who have made this week possible, as they loaded the trailer to head home. I ran into one last person on my way out and thanked him for all he and his family have done for my family over the years and he simply said “Make us proud girlfriend, make us proud.”

Cully:

My favorite thing about the Iowa State Fair is all the different atmospheres you get to experience when you arrive at the gate. You might take your first step into a livestock barn where you get to see many competitive individuals do what they love. You might be coming to the fairgrounds for a concert at one of the stages spread out across the grounds or at the grandstands. You might come across just one of the hundreds of food stands throughout the grounds. No matter the experience you have at the Iowa State Fair you will always be surrounded by energetic, excited, smiling fairgoers and that is the memory I will always remember. Getting to talk to many people hearing why they are at the fair keeps me interested in everything the Iowa State Fair has to offer.

Cole:

When they say, "Nothing Compares" to the Iowa State Fair, they are right. Over the course of the fifteen days I have been on the grounds, I have experienced many firsts. The most memorable first for me was the Parade of Champions. For me, the entire event was special and will resonate with me for many years to come. Even though it was a scorching day with high humidity, and the team was suited up in official dress; I know everyone was excited. When the hitch team rolled up, and we began to load into the back, I was amazed by the amount of talent and skill that surrounded me. From the vantage point above the rest of the patrons watching on the street, I could see all the exhibitors with their projects lining up behind. My favorite part of this "first" was to see the smiles and excitement shared by the exhibitors. My role for the Parade of Champions allowed me to stand just inside the arena before the members walked out to be recognized for all of their hard work. I could see that every single FFA member was extremely proud of their exhibit, and rightfully so. No matter how each of the exhibitors did over the course of the Fair, I want to commend them for all of their hard work, commitment, sacrifice, and effort leading up to this remarkable event.

Hoffman:

Throughout the duration of the fair I’ve learned quite a few things. I’ve learned just how dedicated some people are to serving others. I’ve learned that FFA advisors put their mental and physical well-being on the line to ensure that their students have a quality, and worthwhile experience. I’ve learned that some of the best memories are made when you least expect them. I’ve learned that teamwork makes the dream work, and you can accomplish anything with some sweat (a lot of that at the Iowa State Fair) and a positive attitude. Throughout my two weeks at the fair I’ve also made countless memories. It’s hard to narrow it down, but I would say my favorite memory of the Iowa State Fair was seeing how talented Iowa FFA members really are. From restored tractors to beautiful photographs, FFA members can do it all, and do it really well. I couldn’t help but feel proud every time I walked by all of the FFA exhibits these last two weeks, because I know how excited FFA members are to share their passion, and common bond with nearly a million fair-goers, and to me that is the ultimate prize. To all of the volunteers, friends, FFA members, FFA advisors, business partners, and anyone else who helped serve others these last two weeks, thank you for making the 2016 Iowa State Fair a phenomenal fair.  

Hamilton:

For about the past 10 years, I have called the great Iowa State Fair my home-away-from-home. Making that three hour drive to Des Moines was always such an adventure, and with the sheep in tow I was excited to see what would happen in the ring as well. I was excited to hang out with friends, eat some pretty awesome food, and hang out in the sheep barn. The highlight of course was always the actual sheep show. Getting my sheep ready and taking them into the ring has always been one of my favorite things to do. However, this year, things were just a little bit different. Serving as a State Officer at the state fair has been such an awesome experience, but showing sheep was definitely not the same. Rather than being able to have my sheep ride out with me and checking on them 24/7 during the wonderful heat of state fair, I was getting the ribbons ready for the sheep show and making sure that all the sheep had the proper forms during check-ins. It was an awesome experience getting to help the show that I had been a part of for so long, but it was also pretty stressful. I couldn’t work with my own sheep and had to hope that my mom was getting them ready the way that I wanted them, and then would run to change my shirt and head into the ring only to run back to the table to hand ribbons out again. It was really fun but a lot of hard work, and I was exhausted. One of the people around the show ring could tell how exhausted I was, and talked to me about it. We started talking about how the judge was placing classes and our experiences growing up showing purebred sheep. It was a very enjoyable conversation, and really helped to re-energize me. At one point, she started talking about being a state officer. She said “My niece is an FFA member, the president of her chapter, and she absolutely loves that you and Savannah are showing sheep and state officers!” I couldn’t believe that something that I had been doing for years could impact other members. Putting the effort forth to continue to show sheep as a state officer had a positive impact on another student, and I think that was even better than the fair food.

Zoie:
This year marks year number 18 at the world’s greatest state fair. And like they say, nothing compares to MY Iowa State Fair. This year was something that I never thought I was going to be able to experience. The Great Iowa State Fair through the eyes of a State FFA Officer. My past two years as a district officer, I volunteered my time up in the display booth whenever I could. The State Officers praised me for doing so because that building is not air conditioned and there is no place to sit down. I saw how the state officers were running around, but I never really understood the time it took for them to do what they do at the state fair. Last year, I spent a whole week here on the grounds, and I called my mom crying every night telling her I missed her and I wanted to come home. I wasn’t sure how I was ever going to do college.

This year, I spent 15 consecutive days here on the grounds, and I didn’t call my mom crying once. (She although, has sent me good morning texts…. Every. Single. Morning.) If that’s not an accomplishment man, I don’t know what is. As I am very proud of myself for accomplishing that, my favorite memory from state fair was definitely the Animal Learning Center. As I said before, state officers are always on the go at the state fair. 5 a.m. mornings and 11:00 p.m. nights. If there was anything I needed in my day it was a BREAK. And for me, that break was the Animal Learning Center. I’ve always had a passion for livestock so this was right up my alley. Not only did I get some AWESOME scrubs, I was able to educate the younger generation about livestock. Plus, I got to hold a super cute goat and talk to super cute kids for an hour and a half.

Overall, state fair was a BLAST. And it was SO hard trying to pick my favorite memory. Our team grew closer, it rained and poured, it was ungodly hot, I got to judge a cookout contest, I met new people, re-connected with old friends, and man, we walked like 500 miles. But, I wouldn’t trade it for the world because nothing compares to MY Iowa State Fair.

This Jacket is YOUR Story

It was a sunny day in October of 2013. I walked into the ag room and there was a box with my name on it. I opened it up to find a blue corduroy jacket with my name stitched on it. Immediately, I was filled with pride. I was finally officially a part of something so much bigger than myself. My story started right then and there.

Hi, I’m Zoie Shook and I’m serving as the 2016-2017 Southwest State Vice-President. I remember the day I received my blue corduroy jacket like it was yesterday. I also remember my ag advisor, Mr. Jim Calvert (Otherwise known as Jimmy B or Calv) telling us that our jacket was more than just a piece of fabric. It was a story book that we had control of.

I’ve never been much of a writer, so I was confused when these words came out of his mouth. Little did I know, that my story book would have 5 chapters packed full of memories, experiences, people, and pure love.

Chapter one was where I began my love for the FFA. I was “voluntold” to be the vice president on the conduct of meetings team. (I guess when you talk a lot in class, Mr. Calvert thinks you deserve to have the most speaking parts in contest. I learned from that mistake real quick.) I was happy with being the alternate to state as it made me feel like I had accomplished something and I was finally a part of something bigger. I went on my freshman year to be the top fruit seller, and the Star Greenhand.

Chapter two is where my story really begins to evolve. Mr. Calvert asked me to run for a district office. As an arrogant sophomore, I had no idea what that was, nor did I have the desire to know. After some wheeling and dealing, Mr. Calvert talked me into it. Jimmy B always had this thing for tough love. He made me cry the day of district interviews, and the day before I gave my speech. I later then realized that he was doing me a huge favor. I was elected as the Southwest District Vice-President that year, and it was the first time I ever saw Mr. Calvert cry.

That year was one of the best years of my life. Not only did I participate in the Public Speaking contest, but I also got to serve the best district in the state. I was wearing the jacket when I gave my district office speech, and I was wearing the jacket when I realized the impact that I was making on members and the potential I had in the jacket.

Chapter three. I was re-elected to the Southwest District Officer Team. This year, I was the Reporter. Life just kept on getting sweeter in the blue corduroy. I was traveling the state and district with some of my best friends, meeting people I will remember for a lifetime, and experiencing things that will forever be in my heart. I served on the Parliamentary Procedure Team with some of my best friends, but I was also satisfied with my story so far knowing that I was leaving my everlasting impact.

Chapter four is just a little sweeter. Things were wrapping up and I was experiencing a lot of “lasts”. Senior year was a big year for me. I was preparing for state office, refusing to give up my blue corduroy, and trying to figure out what I wanted to do with my life. I didn’t have any cool titles this year, but I was once again the alternate for state in the Job Interview Career Development Event. Something I was really proud of.

I experienced my last FFA banquet, tractor ride, district convention, meeting, contest, state convention, and everything else that you can imagine. And you can bet your life savings on the fact that I cried like a baby at each and every one of my FFA “lasts”. My story in the blue corduroy helped me me make the decision to become an ag teacher, and leave an impact just like Jimmy B had left on me. I wanted to help kids write their story in the blue corduroy.

I thought I was done after that, but in April, chapter five started. I was elected to state office. A freshman year dream come true. I’m currently on jacket number four. A fresh new story book, and you bet your britches it’s going to be a good one. But that chapter is still in the works, and you’re just going to have to see how that one plays out.

Each day you put on your blue corduroy, you’re writing a new page in your FFA story. Your jackets holds more than just your phone, chapstick, conference booklet, and a pen. It holds your memories, the people you’ve met, the lives you’ve touched, and so much more. All FFA members have the opportunity to make their story in the blue corduroy an amazing one. Don’t be afraid to take that chance. The jacket is more than just a piece of fabric, but only if you want it to be. Make the effort to write a good story, because even though you may hate reading, your FFA story is something you’re always going to want to come back and re-read.

I was never that much of a writer, but now that I look back on it, I would say that my writing skills aren’t all that awful. You don’t have to be a writer to write an amazing FFA story. All you need is a little passion, support, and motivation and the story will just kind of make itself. This FFA jacket is YOUR story. Make it a good one.

Zoie Shook

Southwest State Vice-President

What Do People Buy

A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to attend the Alumni Development Conference. While there, I had the opportunity to meet alumni members from around the country, form friendships with fellow National Officer Candidates, and listen to speakers that highlighted topics surrounding agricultural advocacy and literacy. The conference was incredible, and truly helped to build my understanding of how a thriving alumni affiliate can have a profound impact on an agricultural education program and FFA chapter.

There was one particular phrase that caught my attention and has stuck with me since I got back from Kansas City. During a presentation about agricultural advocacy, the speaker referenced a quote from Simon Sinek that reads, “People don’t buy what you do, they buy why you do it.” The full video can be watched here:

The video does an incredible job of explaining human nature and what truly drives our decision making, and it really made me start to wonder about how we market not only agriculture, but also FFA. Are we selling what we do, or why we do it?

When describing FFA, I have always spoken about how we are a youth led student organization which is rooted in agriculture. That our organization does business as the National FFA Organization instead of the Future Farmers of America to help encompass the broad scope of what agriculture entails and that our mission statement is to develop students’ potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education. These are all amazing talking points, and truly do show what it is that our organization does for students. However, these statements fail to answer the why we choose to exist as an organization.

Why do we choose to exist as an organization? The question seems simple enough, but as I thought about that question on the 4 hour car ride back from Kansas City, the answer seemed harder and harder to latch onto. It seems like there are many reasons that FFA exists as an organization. We have 5 paragraphs that exist in the form of the FFA creed that do an eloquent job of stating the importance of our organization, to ourselves as members, to the communities we are a part of, and the industry we participate in. However, the FFA creed is a difficult document to explain to someone outside of our organization. After 6 years of being an FFA member, I am still discovering all the intricacies of the FFA creed and what it truly means to say those words “I believe”.

No, we need something simpler to use when describing why our organization exists to stakeholders that may not have a firsthand experience with the impact that FFA makes. Luckily, the National FFA organization is filled with talented people that have already given us the roadmap to use – the FFA Vision Statement.

The full Vision Statement reads like this - Students whose lives are impacted by FFA and agricultural education will achieve academic and personal growth, strengthen American agriculture and provide leadership to build healthy local communities, a strong nation and a sustainable world. That is still a fairly long statement to explain, so they even shortened it to 3 main parts – FFA Grows Leaders, Builds Communities, and Strengthens Agriculture.

This vision says something truly profound, because it goes further than explaining what student’s gain from being a part of this organization. It is a statement about what happens beyond this organization. Ultimately, it’s a statement about why this organization matters to everyone, not just the students that were fortunate enough to have experienced it firsthand. It sets the stage for the what we do by explaining why we do it.

Grow leaders, build communities, and strengthen agriculture. These three statements are something that any person can buy into. So the next time someone asks you about the importance of FFA, explain the vision of FFA. Talk about how FFA has grown you as a leader both within and outside of FFA, how your chapter helps to build your community because of the leadership you have gained, and how there are over 629,000 young agriculturalists across this country that are working to make agriculture as strong as it ever has been. Because remember, people don’t buy what you do, they buy why you do it.

Michael Tupper

2016 Iowa FFA National Officer Candidate