Yesterday, six Kansas FFA Officers and the National FFA President joined Gov. Sam Brownback as he signed a proclamation declaring February 15 – 22 as Kansas FFA Week. The officers also met with several state leaders and were introduced on the House floor. The week-long celebration marks 86 years of FFA, one of the largest youth organizations with more than 8,000 members in Kansas. The mission of FFA is to promote premier leadership, personal growth and career success among its members.

The agricultural industry is the largest economic driver in Kansas. Farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses continue to adapt and improve to meet our world’s food, fiber and energy needs. FFA and agricultural education provide a strong foundation for the youth of America to be the future leaders in the dynamic and complex agricultural and natural resources sectors. Involvement in FFA and agricultural education prepares young professionals to meet the growing demands in the science, business and technology of agriculture.

Gov. Brownback, a former Kansas State FFA Officer, understands the impact FFA has on student success. “Students involved in agricultural education and FFA are the next generation of agriculture leaders. Through classroom work, hands-on programs and competitive Career Development Events, students develop valuable life-long skills,” said Gov. Brownback.

2013 – 2014 Kansas FFA Officers include: Lindy Bilberry from Garden City, a sophomore at Kansas State University majoring in Agribusiness; Carrie Carlson from Lincolnville, a freshman at Kansas State University majoring in Bakery Science & Management; Chance Hunley from Riverton, a sophomore at Kansas State University majoring in Computer Science; Cody Holliday from Jackson Heights, a freshman at Kansas State University majoring in Agricultural Education; Daryl Simmons from Minneapolis, a sophomore at Butler Community College majoring in Agribusiness; Elizabeth Allen from Holton, a sophomore at Kansas State University majoring in Agribusiness. The National FFA President is Brian Walsh from Woodstock, Virginia.

To learn more about the Kansas FFA Association, please visit http://www.hpj.com/wsdocs/ffa/index.cfm