Time for 98th Illinois FFA State Convention

Convention has arrived! Throughout the year, Illinois FFA members have spent countless hours preparing for contests, strengthening their communities and becoming the next generation of leaders within agriculture.

From long practices after school to community service events to stepping outside of comfort zones in leadership opportunities, FFA members have dedicated themselves to growth and success.

It is now time to sit back and celebrate the accomplishments from this past year at the 98th Illinois FFA State Convention. However, this convention would not have been possible without the months’ worth of preparation completed by the Illinois FFA state officer team.

Throughout the past couple of months, the major state officers have spent a majority of their time preparing for the biggest show of the year.

From writing scripts, memorizing speeches, planning sessions and preparing recognition ceremonies, every detail has been carefully organized to create an unforgettable experience for members and guests attending the convention.

Although much of the work happens behind the scenes, the effort and dedication of the state officer team shines through each session held on stage.

The convention is sure to be something for everyone to enjoy, whether members are attending workshops, being recognized for achievements, reconnecting with friends or simply experiencing the excitement and energy that the event brings each year.

Whether you are a first-time member attending the convention or a member coming to the end of an era with the blue jacket, it is the major state officer team’s goal to “Spark Your Future” both in and out of FFA.

The convention serves as more than just a celebration of accomplishments — it is an opportunity for members to discover new passions, build meaningful connections and gain inspiration for the future ahead.

The impact of Illinois FFA stretches far beyond the convention hall, and the lessons learned through the organization continue to shape students into leaders within their schools, communities and future careers.

Throughout this past year, the major state officer team has spent time traveling the state visiting with members, seeing different FFA chapters and shaping the future of agriculture.

From northern Illinois to southern Illinois, the team has had the opportunity to witness firsthand the dedication, passion and hard work that Illinois FFA members display every single day.

In visiting classrooms, attending chapter banquets, participating in conferences and meeting members from across the state, the officers have seen the true impact that agricultural education and the FFA organization have on students and communities alike.

On top of traveling and meeting members, the team has also had the opportunity to meet with agricultural industry professionals who continue to invest in the future of agriculture through the members of Illinois FFA.

These conversations and experiences have helped showcase the endless opportunities available within the agricultural industry and the importance of preparing the next generation of leaders.

The major state officers have also had the chance to watch members compete in Career and Leadership Development Events, experiences that directly connect classroom learning and leadership growth to future careers in agriculture and beyond.

Through these events, members demonstrate not only technical knowledge, but also teamwork, communication and professionalism.

The 98th Illinois FFA State Convention is also the time when the election of the 2026-2027 Illinois FFA state officer team will take place. For the current state officer team, this convention marks the final show of their year of service.

While the end of the year brings reflection and bittersweet emotions, it also brings excitement for the future of Illinois FFA and the leaders who will continue carrying the organization forward.

As one team takes their final bow and another begins their journey, the cycle of leadership within Illinois FFA continues to grow stronger.

The 2025-2026 Illinois FFA state officers hope this year’s convention leaves a lasting impact on every member in attendance.

Whether through a speech heard on stage, a workshop attended, a conversation shared with another member or an award received, the convention has the ability to inspire individuals long after the final session concludes.

As members gather to celebrate the accomplishments of the past year, the convention will serve as a reminder of the passion, leadership and future that continue to define Illinois FFA.

We hope that you can join us June 9-11 at the 98th Illinois FFA State Convention at the Bank of Springfield Center.

Ethan Bremmer from the Pearl City FFA Chapter is the 2025-2026 Illinois Association FFA state reporter.