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Celebrations of agriscience students and agricultural stakeholders took place during the 97th National FFA Convention Oct. 23-26 in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell and Alabama Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter, R-Rainsville, received the Honorary American FFA Degree during the fourth general session Oct. 25.
This degree is awarded to individuals who have provided exceptional service to FFA and agriculture on state and national levels.
Parnell’s leadership of the state’s largest farm organization “has impacted FFA and agricultural education in Alabama for generations to come. He carries his passion for future agriculturists with him to Washington, D.C., where he serves on the American Farm Bureau Federation board of directors,” the release stated.
“The students wearing the blue corduroy jackets are our future,” Parnell said. “It’s important we devote time and resources into this organization founded on agriculture and leadership development.”
In continued support of Alabama FFA, Ledbetter championed a legislative appropriation in the state’s Education Trust Fund budget that granted affiliate membership to school chapters. The funding he secured provides FFA memberships for all students enrolled in agricultural classes. That membership change doubled the student-led organization’s enrollment.
“Being involved in FFA and coming to convention is a great experience that helps students engage and learn leadership skills,” Ledbetter said. “Seeing almost 70,000 FFA members and guests from across the nation makes you proud to be a part of this.”
Also receiving the Honorary American FFA Degree from Alabama were Baldwin County’s John Kelley, Cullman County’s David Benefield and Tallapoosa County’s Sid Phelps.
Additionally, Sen. Merika Coleman, D-Pleasant Grove, and Sen. Steve Livingston, R-Scottsboro, joined the Alabama delegation and visited with FFA members, agriscience educators and representatives from Auburn University’s College of Agriculture.
Federation External Affairs Department Director Brian Hardin said it was rewarding to see so many familiar faces at a nationwide event. “Our state leaders witnessed the value of FFA membership,” Hardin said. “This organization empowers students to strive for excellence through premier leadership, personal growth and career success. Seeing the effects FFA has on so many young people allows our leaders to truly grasp the extent of their support.”
