For many FFA members, a highlight of their summer is traveling to Washington, D.C., for the Washington Leadership Conference, the second-largest student experience hosted by the National FFA Organization.
The conference has been taking place for over 50 years and wrapped up on Saturday at the Omni Shoreham Hotel. A unique time for thousands of students to improve their skills and knowledge as changemakers and leaders within their communities, attendees travel for one of the weeklong sessions to network, grow, and visit historic land sites.
Students at this year’s conference learned about ways “To do what we can, with what we have, where we are.” FFA members worked together throughout the conference to create a Living to Serve Plan. The annual capstone event plans hands-on civic engagement activities for students.
Unlike the memories of sitting in a chair during speeches, the conference actively involves members in hands-on learning experiences and knowledge that can be implemented immediately.
»Related: FFA members head to Washington Leadership Conference
Here’s what FFA chapters from around the country had to say about WLC
Four members from the Lorain County JVS in Oberlin, Ohio, traveled to D.C., saying that the experience was eye-opening as the group enjoyed visiting national monuments and meeting members from around the country.
Clovis FFA, out of California, was able to send their chapter president Patrick Palmer to the event so that he could return as an even better leader for his community.
The Seneca FFA Chapter from Seneca, Illinois, sent eight members to WLC for education, personal growth, and reflection throughout the week. According to their social media posts, a highlight of the trip was a visit to one of the school’s alumni’s consulting firms, where members learned about the working of advocacy in our nation’s capital.
Middle Tennessee FFA President Skylar Baird shared that, “This past week was full of life-changing lessons, workshops, and relationships. I was able to experience firsthand what being a leader truly is.”
Christian County High School’s FFA chapter from Hopkinsville, Kentucky, sent FFA member Cheyanne Rodgers to WLC. Rodgers said, “I cannot wait to take the knowledge back home to implement into our chapter and teach my fellow members what I learned!”
Five officers from the South Central Calhoun FFA chapter from Iowa had the opportunity to meet with Iowa Senator Joni Ernst.
»Related: Living to serve: Branson FFA volunteers pack 12,848 meals
