The blue corduroy FFA jacket has been a symbol of pride and achievement within the National FFA Organization since 1933, when delegates at the national convention voted to make it part of the official attire. For nearly a century, the jacket has represented leadership, dedication, and a deep connection to agricultural education.
When students join FFA, they typically purchase or borrow jackets to compete in the various Career Development Events offered through the organization. The jacket serves as their team uniform, worn at all official FFA events, creating a sense of unity and pride among members.
In South Dakota, the FFA jacket tradition remains strong, with a record 458 FFA members from 88 chapters set to receive jackets this fall, thanks to the support of sponsors through the Blue Jackets Bright Futures FFA Jacket Program.
The program allows students to apply for a jacket by writing essays about their FFA experiences and future goals. This opportunity, made possible by donors like the South Dakota Corn Utilization Council, a 4-Star Partner of the South Dakota FFA Foundation, provides deserving students with their very own jacket, eliminating the financial barrier and reinforcing their commitment to the organization and agricultural education.
The South Dakota FFA Foundation’s sponsorship program is critical in ensuring that all FFA members have access to the tools and resources they need to succeed. By sponsoring jackets, individuals, and businesses help these students gain the full experience of FFA, which includes leadership development, personal growth, and preparation for future careers in agriculture.
For individuals or businesses interested in sponsoring an FFA jacket for a South Dakota FFA member, the cost is $90 per jacket.
Through the support of the South Dakota Corn Utilization Council and other sponsors, the Blue Jackets Bright Futures program continues to ensure that deserving FFA members can proudly wear the iconic jacket, creating lifelong memories and preparing the next generation of agricultural leaders.
This support is part of the larger mission of the SD FFA Foundation to develop students’ potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education.
For more information about the South Dakota FFA Foundation and how you can contribute to supporting FFA members, visit the organization’s website or follow them on Facebook. Supporting the FFA means helping build the future of agriculture in South Dakota, one jacket at a time.
