True Blue Nebraska News
JUNE 2015
Leadership. Tradition. True Blue
Nebraska State FFA Convention: New Venue, Same Traditions As I walked into Pinnacle Bank Arena last month, I was in awe. Surrounded by FFA members donning their blue corduroy jackets, I took in the top-notch facilities. Over the past few years, it became obvious that Nebraska FFA was outgrowing Pershing Auditorium, just like it outgrew the Nebraska Center for Continuing Education years ago.
school and her first year of agricultural education next year. The agriculture industry is not the same today as it was when I was an FFA member. That’s what makes agricultural education and FFA important to our future. While the classroom curriculum and Supervised Agricultural Experiences (SAE) evolve, the mission of FFA stays the same – Premier Leadership, Personal Growth and Career Success. These are keys to thriving and finding success in the agriculture industry as well as life.
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I’m asking for your help in supporting this organization, It is easy to get distracted by the beautiful building, as we see increased chapter growth and improved flashy video screens, and roomy seats. However, during student development, while staying rooted in the opening ceremonies, when Paige Dexter, 2014-15 traditions you and I experienced. Please consider State President, said, “FFA members, why are we here?” tearing out and returning the enclosed donation She brought me back to the root of our mission and envelope with your donation or go to neffafoundation. purpose. org/support_us to support the traditions of agricultural education in Nebraska. “To practice brotherhood, honor agricultural opportunities and responsibilities and develop those Thank you for your continued investment in the future qualities of leadership which an FFA member should of Nebraska’s FFA members. possess,” FFA members said in unison. Sincerely, Many years after I have moved on from FFA, it’s obvious to me that I really did develop those leadership qualities during my time as an FFA member. The networks I built have proven to be invaluable as I have Kent Kirchhoff furthered my career, family and friendships. Now, I find President myself looking forward as my oldest child starts high Nebraska FFA Foundation
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