Fort Frye FFA takes a trip to the National FFA Convention

(Photo provided) Fort Frye FFA took 18 students to the 97th National FFA Convention and Expo in Indianapolis, Indiana, October 22-26.

BEVERLY – The Fort Frye FFA Chapter traveled to the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis Oct. 22-26.

The chapter traveled with the Warren FFA Chapter. Our chapter had 18 members, they all loved it and gained so much knowledge.

To begin the trip, the chapter went to Louisville, Kentucky. Our first day in Louisville was filled with two fun tours, the Louisville Slugger Museum and Churchill Downs! At the slugger, museum members learned the process of making a wooden baseball bat. The chapter also enjoyed fun activities such as the museum cinema, batting cages, gift shop and more. The chapter then toured Churchill Downs, the site of the Kentucky Derby circuit. While there, members walked through the museum doing interactive things such as mock bidding on the horse you think will win, riding a racehorse simulator game, watching videos and more. Many members enjoyed seeing the track in real life. Before leaving Kentucky, the chapter toured the mammoth cave, a first for many! As we entered the cave, we were struck by its natural beauty. During the 3.2 km hike, the ranger gave us valuable insights into the geological and ecological features of the cave. These tours were great additions to our trip.

Members visited the Indianapolis Zoo our first night in Indiana. We saw a variety of different animals, and even a few new species.

Member Parker Burris was elected National FFA USA Reporter 2024-2025. On our first morning of the convention, Parker had the privilege of visiting the National FFA Convention press box and the FFA Live Film Room. Parker learned more about media production, wrote reports on what happened each session, and more. That same day, chapter members walked around the convention all day. Members participated in a service project, interacted with various colleges and businesses, learned about the agricultural industry and shopped at the convention mall.

Ohio FFA members are invited to the Buckeye Bash at Kelsay Farms during the convention. Our chapter attended this event where members met other Ohio FFA members, danced the night away, enjoyed a hot cider by the fire, and much more.

The last full day of the conference was filled with a lot of fun. The chapter attended the fourth general meeting of the convention. During this meeting, members had the privilege of listening to keynote speaker Temple Grandin. Grandin lives to serve this organization, having contributed her talents to inventing stress-free livestock handling systems. Temple’s keynote emphasized that different ways of thinking are important. The chapter then visited the National FFA headquarters as we explored various exhibits and learned how the organization has evolved over time. After a break in the convention center, the chapter attended the fifth general session of the convention. During this session, members listened to Ohio Eastern Region Vice President Morgan Anderson give her farewell address on defining what a good person is. Meanwhile, member Christy Willis and Warren FFA Advisor Blake Campbell took part in a chicken throwing competition on stage! To end the day, the chapter tested their leadership and communication skills in an escape room. Members were randomly assigned themed rooms along with other Warren FFA members. Each room had to communicate and work together, testing their leadership skills to solve puzzles, codes and clues while escaping in time. This day was filled with wonderful experiences.

On our last day at the convention, we attended the American Degree Session where we were able to watch our very own Taylor Miller walk across the stage to receive her American Degree. This degree demonstrates an FFA member’s dedication to his or her chapter and state FFA association. We are beyond proud of you, Taylor!

Ultimately, this year’s conference trip was filled with new and enjoyable experiences. Members may take what they learned at the convention and take it home to use in our chapter and community.