Missouri FFA is 25,375 members strong – the sixth highest state membership in the nation. Students will receive recognition for outstanding achievements in agriculture education at the 91st annual Missouri FFA Convention April 25-26. From food production to agriculture sales to livestock evaluation and more, FFA students receive comprehensive agriculture education and have the chance to be honored for their accomplishments. More than 8,000 FFA members, advisors and guests from across the state will gather for the convention at the University of Missouri’s Hearnes Center.

In acknowledgment of their agricultural and leadership achievements, 760 members will receive the state’s highest FFA degree. According to Missouri FFA Executive Secretary Keith Dietzschold, Missouri has the highest number of American FFA Degree recipients of any state, as more than 500 Missouri FFA members received the American FFA Degree in 2018.

In addition, 576 FFA members will receive awards for development of their supervised agricultural experience (SAE) program. The proficiency areas are varied and include production, management and communications disciplines.

FFA members at the convention will participate in a number of competitions and career development events, conduct association business, elect new officers, and participate in leadership workshops.

Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education Margie Vandeven will address attendees during the Thursday evening session, and Missouri Director of Agriculture Chris Chinn will speak during Thursday’s first session in the afternoon.

Also during the convention, Missouri FFA President Paxton Dahmer (Nevada Chapter) will lead 694 delegates in official business sessions. Each chapter is represented by two delegates. Four FFA chapters will receive charters during the Thursday evening session:

• Newburg, Newburg R-II School District
• Oak Ridge, Oak Ridge R-VI School District
• Valley Caledonia, Valley R-VI School District
• East Carter, East Carter County R-II School District
   

FFA strives to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. The mission of FFA and other career and technical student organizations supports Missouri’s Show-Me Success campaign, which is aimed at ensuring that every Missouri student graduates ready to succeed in life.

To see the convention event schedule, please visit the Missouri FFA website: https://missouriffa.org/.