Governor to FFA youths: You are ‘the heartbeat of America’

INDIANAPOLIS — The first general session of the 99th National FFA Convention and Expo was filled with excitement as a DJ hyped up the crowd.

Thousands of FFA members sang and danced as they prepared for the kickoff of a memorable week.

While the convention is about learning to be successful leaders, students also have time to just be kids. The National FFA convention embraced that magic and energy this year.

After the opening ceremonies, Indiana Gov. Mike Braun welcomed the crowd.

“I view this group as the heartbeat of America — the future of America,” he said. “I love it when you come into town. We’re ‘The Crossroads of America.’ The rural economy is very important to us.

“We’re so proud each year to host this convention and glad to see it come back for many years down the road.

“You’re going to gain the skills, experience and leadership opportunities that you’ll need to succeed. Looking at all of you here, I know the future of agriculture is in very good hands.”

The governor told the students that whether they pursue a career in agriculture, business or public service, the lessons learned in FFA will serve them well.

Keynote speaker Scott McKain ended the session with more encouragement.

“You are the first generation surrounded by algorithms,” he said. “I realize that in my day, when I was a National FFA officer, we never could’ve predicted AI, precision ag, biotech, climate volatility or the impact on your lives that social media has created.

“So, as we look to the past, but also the future at this 99th national convention, I want to suggest that need for character and leadership has not changed.”

If you know what you stand for and you take it to the level of action, belief and persistence — you can succeed, McKain said.