National FFA Convention wraps up as countdown to 100th anniversary starts

INDIANAPOLIS — About 70,000 people visited Indianapolis for the 99th National FFA Convention and Expo for a busy week of leadership development, service projects and other activities.

A total of 5,816 American FFA Degrees and 236 Honorary American FFA Degrees were awarded at the event.

Indiana’s own Paul Noll and Kevin Noll of Prairie Heights FFA took home top honors in the National Agriscience Fair, winning first place in Animal Systems: Division 2.

“What makes this convention special is that our members don’t just receive recognition — they engage with one another and empower each other,” said Christine White, chief program officer of the National FFA Organization.

“Whether they’re presenting research on the Student Showcase stage, serving alongside one another in the community or earning their American FFA Degree, they leave Indianapolis ready to lead back home.”

At the exhibition hall, students learned about career opportunities and networked with businesses.

“This year is actually a record-breaking year for us,” said Haley Perry, FFA Convention team member. “Exhibitors are up 14% over last year, with 345 unique stops to make along the blue carpet. They love the attendance and love our students.”

An estimated 3,240 delegates and students served 27 local nonprofits during the Oct. 21-24 convention.

At the historic Crown Hill Cemetery on the northwest side of Indianapolis, FFA members spruced up flower beds.

“It all starts with finding the need,” said Samantha Roach, student reporter. “FFA advisers say the goal is to find a project that makes a lasting impact. While the work at Crown Hill took just one day, what these members learning will shape how they serve their own communities for years to come.”

Looking to 2027, leaders and members are excited to celebrate FFA’s legacy.

“We’re getting incredibly close to that 100-year milestone, which will also kick off that 100-year anniversary of FFA as a whole,” said Morgan Anderson, 2023-2024 National FFA eastern region vice president.

“At next year’s national convention, we’ll be premiering a documentary that celebrates FFA and its 100 years of impact.”

The name of the documentary is “Better Days through Better Ways: The Blue Jacket Story.”