Quinlan: National FFA Convention goes virtual

History was made when the National FFA Convention was held virtually for the first time. I’ve been lucky enough to cover this event in person the past few years as the convention has been held in Indianapolis.

But this was an experience unlike anything I’ve seen. I was blown away by the speed and user-friendliness of the virtual convention — especially the Blue Room.

The Blue Room is a place for FFA students to learn how sustainability and innovations help solve challenges in agriculture. Students could explore by clicking their way around the “room,” checking out different pods with educational videos and information.

The graphics and experience in general exceeded my expectations. I stepped into the same room that I did last year — only this time it was on a screen on my laptop.

I’m glad this year’s convention wasn’t canceled. So much valuable information was shared and accessible to a huge group of deserving students.

All the same, here’s to 2021. I can’t wait to see old friends in person next year.