For 80 years now, past and present members of the Future Farmers of America (FFA) come together during FFA Week to celebrate their organization’s traditions and contributions. Today, although the letters “FFA” stand for Future Farmers of America, the FFA welcomes all students interested in pursuing careers in engineering, chemistry, business, biology, medicine and more, in addition to agriculture. In 1947 the FFA Board of Directors designated the first National FFA Week and set the annual dates to encompass George Washington’s birthday, in honor of his contributions as an agriculturalist and farmer. This year, more than half a million FFA members will participate in National FFA Week activities nationwide, February 21-28.
More than 29,000 Illinois high school students will be joining in activities during FFA Week, including several local FFA chapters. These activities include not only entertainment for its members, but also learning opportunities, fundraisers, and community awareness events. The primary goal of the FFA is to make each of its members a better individual, providing them opportunities for success in leadership, personal growth and career success. Let’s hope that, for at least then next 80 years, this national celebration tradition continues.
For more information, go to www.ffa.org .