After a tepid few years in agricultural education due to school and program shutdowns, ag students are rallying across the country. The National FFA Organization just released their new membership numbers, and membership is now at an all-time high! The latest tally lists 850,823 FFA members, with 8,995 chapters in the United States, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Throughout the country, news of food insecurity, and the vitality of a secure system have brought agriculture to the forefront of public attention. And, after years of digital learning and being cooped up, youth are yearning for the type of hands-on interactive learning and leadership experiences that FFA provides.
“Our FFA members are the future generation of leaders who make a difference in their communities as well as agriculture and other industries,” said National FFA CEO Scott Stump. “As we continue to grow, we see the enthusiasm for agricultural education and FFA reflected in our membership.”
The new FFA reports signal a record-high student membership that has increased by over 15 percent. This is good news for the future of our students, agriculture, and our food system!
FFA is increasing at the grassroots level as well. Compared with last year, chapter numbers are increasing by 178, resulting in nearly 9,000 chapters in the U.S., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The top FFA states based on student membership are Texas, California, Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee.
While membership continues to grow on the national and state level, it’s clear that the organization gives students a safe place to learn and live. There are over 132,700 Latino members, over 47,000 Black members, and more than 13,000 American Indian and Alaska Native members. FFA membership is comprised of members that are 43 percent female, 50 percent male, and a remaining membership that identifies as nonbinary or chooses not to disclose or report.
FFA is a school-based program that provides education that is unlike any other classes offered. Students are prepared for successful careers and a lifetime of informed choices in the agriculture, food, fiber, and natural resources system while developing their unique talents and interests. Nearly every aspect of the education program is focused on leadership — from the local level all the way to the national level.
» Explore all that FFA has to offer here
