State Officer Update: State Officers Reflect on Memorable Year of Service and Achievements of Members
By Melanie Orozco, State FFA Reporter
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As the term for the 2022-2023 California FFA State Officers draws to a close, we reflect on the experiences and memories we have gained during our travels across the state. These unforgettable moments will stay with us for a lifetime.
In March, we passed the torch to the newly elected State FFA Officer Team, and we are excited to witness the impactful work they will accomplish during their year of service. We have complete confidence in their ability to continue to redefine California FFA.
Our travels have taken us to several State Degree Ceremonies and field days throughout California since the 95th annual State FFA Leadership Conference. We are proud to announce that over 2,000 State FFA degrees have been awarded this past year, which is a remarkable achievement. This accomplishment is earned by only around two percent of hardworking third- and fourth-year members after meeting rigorous requirements and completing a comprehensive application.
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Leading the Way: Meet the 2023-24 State FFA Officers |
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At the 95th State FFA Leadership Conference in Ontario, California, six FFA members were elected to take on one of the most crucial roles in the organization—serving as the State FFA Officer team for the 2023-24 academic year. These officers were elected by delegates from each FFA chapter in California, and are responsible for serving the needs of their peers as well as the agriculture industry. With the needs of more than 100,000 fellow members at heart, they work hard to inspire and lead their peers.
So, who are the new State FFA Officers for the 2023-24 academic year? Tap below to meet them:
This team brings a wealth of experience and passion to their roles, and they are excited to work together to make a positive impact on the FFA program and the agriculture industry. Their role is not just to lead, but also to serve, and they are ready to do both to the best of their ability.
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Photo and Video Highlights of the 95th State FFA Leadership Conference |
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Are you ready to relive the excitement of the 95th State FFA Leadership Conference? We've got great news for you—photos and videos from the event are now available!
As we all know, the State FFA Leadership Conference is a time for members to come together, learn new skills, and make connections with fellow FFA members and supporters. It's an experience that can be truly life-changing, and we're so happy to be able to share some of those moments with you.
Whether you were a participant or just couldn't make it this year, our collection of photos and videos is sure to give you a taste of the action. From inspiring keynote speakers to exciting competitions, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
So what are you waiting for? Check out the unforgettable moments from the 95th State FFA Leadership Conference.
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Be the Change: Registration Opens Soon for FFA’s Change Makers Summit |
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The 2023 California FFA Change Makers Summit is coming up on July 19-21, 2023 at Fresno State University, and we encourage you to register as soon as possible to secure your spot.
This leadership development experience is specifically designed for incoming high school seniors who want to learn about the impact FFA can have on their lives and how they can contribute to the future of California. At the summit, you will have the opportunity to hear from experienced professionals in the agriculture industry, explore potential careers, and gain valuable insights on how to become a change maker.
The 2023 Change Makers Summit will be limited to only 150 students, so be sure to register early to secure your spot. Registration opens on Monday, May 22, 2023 at 7:00 AM, and it is first come, first serve. It's important to note that each participant must have an advisor registered and attending the conference. Talk to your FFA advisor today about registering for the conference.
By attending the summit, you'll come away with a newfound sense of confidence and motivation to live a life of service. Don't miss out on the chance to become a leader and make a positive impact on your community and beyond.
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Make a Difference with a Tap: Help Us Win Target's Charitable Giving Drive |
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We are honored and excited to announce that the California FFA Foundation has been chosen to participate in a special charitable giving drive, sponsored and funded by Target. And you have the chance to help direct a portion of Target’s donation to us!
Now through June 30, vote for California FFA through the Target Circle program to help determine how Target’s donation will be divided up.
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(Don’t forget to change your “My Store” location back to the Target store near you.)
We’re asking our members and supporters to help us make the most of this incredible opportunity. Every vote counts to help us receive a portion of the available Target funds as we continue our mission to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through Agricultural Education.
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Supporters ‘Give the Gift of Blue,’ All Chapters To Receive FFA Jackets |
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Thanks to another successful Giving Tuesday, the California FFA Foundation raised enough funds for every chapter in the state to receive two FREE FFA jackets. These jackets are to be given by the chapter to dedicated FFA members who cannot afford to purchase their own jackets. Every chapter in California is eligible to apply.
Ask your advisor to complete the Jotform (one per chapter) and the FFA Foundation will submit your order to the National FFA on your behalf. Be sure to have your chapter number, shipping address, jacket types and sizes, and scarf and tie preferences before you start the Jotform. If you have any questions, please contact Heather Casjens at hcasjens@californiaffa.org.
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Grow Your Chapter with Tractor Supply’s Grants for Growing Program |
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Are you interested in developing new and exciting project-based or experiential learning opportunities? If so, you won't want to miss out on the opportunity to apply for the Grants for Growing (G4G) program, sponsored by Tractor Supply Company (TSC).
This competitive grant program awards FFA chapters with up to $5,000 to support their projects. Whether you're looking to start a new initiative or improve an existing one, G4G can help make it a reality. Don't wait—start thinking about your project ideas and apply for a G4G grant today!
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National FFA Offers Service Learning Grants |
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Living to Serve Grants are now available for middle/high school FFA chapters to support service-learning projects. This competitive grant program offers up to $3,000 to fund projects that address community needs in the areas of community safety, hunger, health and nutrition, environmental responsibility, or community engagement.
The grant application deadline is June 15, 2023. To apply, FFA chapters must identify a community need and develop a service project that will span an entire school year. This is a great opportunity to make a positive impact in your community while building leadership skills and teamwork within your FFA chapter.
Don't miss out on this chance to make a difference! Visit www.ffa.org to learn more and submit your application before the deadline.
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Arbuckle FFA Expands Breeding Facilities With Help From Wilco
Submitted by Tony Maldonaldo, Arbuckle FFA Reporter
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The Arbuckle FFA Chapter was awarded a generous grant of $4,000 from the Wilco-FFA Grant program in the fall of 2022. The grant was used to purchase new panels for birthing pens in their new agriculture building, providing a safe and comfortable environment for the animals. The new panels were also versatile enough to be configured for use in a showmanship ring or as holding pens for sheep and goats during vaccinations and deworming.
According to Rebekah McPeek, Arbuckle FFA Goat Herd Manager, the new panels were a game-changer for the chapter. "Being able to have the pens in the new ag barn where we kidded out the does was helpful,” explained McPeek. “Without them, we would've had to have goat kids born out in the wind and rain, and not as many would've made it. The panels came in handy since our older barn was full with show animals. With the panels, we were able to have almost a 190% kid crop."
Wilco-FFA Grants are open to all California FFA Chapters, and awarded projects have included chapter equipment and facility repair/investment like greenhouses and land labs, educational activities, and service projects. It is important to note that grants are not awarded to individual projects but must benefit the entire FFA chapter. Grants will be awarded two times per year. More information on Wilco-FFA Grants can be found on their website.
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Highlight the activities and events of your local chapter by submitting an FFA news story through our new JotForm template. Members can gather information, complete the form online, and be featured in California FFA's statewide newsletter or social media posts.
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Follow California FFA on Social Media
#CaliforniaFFA
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