National FFA Convention Goes Virtual This Week

Tim Hammerich

News Reporter

The 93rd annual National FFA Convention kicked off on Tuesday, this year held in a virtual format for the first time ever. The event, which normally draws around 60,000 people to Indianapolis, will be held online this year allowing students and supporters from around the country to participate without having to travel.

FFA members were greeted with remarks from Secretary of Agriculture, and Georgia-native, Sonny Perdue.

Perdue… “We've become so productive. While this has brought new challenges in our abundance that needed to be solved, I've got faith that we will solve them because I have faith in you. You are that next generation of leaders in the ag industry and in America.”

The general sessions of the convention are airing live on RFD-TV and the Cowboy Channel as well as on FFA.org. Secretary Perdue says he enjoys getting to interact with FFA members whenever possible, even in a virtual setting.

Perdue.. “I see young people like you eager to begin careers in agriculture and proudly wearing those blue and gold jackets.”

Also present to offer welcoming remarks to convention attendees was Education Secretary Betsy DeVos.

DeVos… “Your involvement with FFA encourages you to develop your academic and technical skills. And just as importantly, your character.”

Beyond the general sessions, the convention will be packed with workshops, delegate business, connection rooms, and online exhibits. The convention ends tonight, Thursday, October 29th.