Making History

From the second grade we take history classes, learning about those unforgettable moments in our past. More importantly, history teaches us about those unforgettable people in our past. The National FFA Organization now has 81 years beneath its belt for one major reason...the people. This past January my team and I had the opportunity to experience our first Board of Directors meeting - the meeting where influential people begin to create history.

For those of you who are like I was as a high school member, you may be wondering "What is the Board of Directors." The simplest way to put it, the Board of Directors are the ones who start change. They listen to the challenges and suggestions of all state associations, and then come to a consensus as to what would be best for the National FFA. Then, their suggestions go to the delegates at national FFA convention.

As my teammates and I sat in the meeting room at the FFA center surrounded by representatives of all the Ag Education organizations, Ag Ed Teachers, and other representatives of stakeholders in FFA, we realized that we were a part of something so much greater than ourselves. We sat in a room made up of the leaders of this organization. A room with many strong opinions, new ideas, and a whole lot of passion! Despite different views on subjects, each person sitting in that room possessed the same passion....the passion of helping students.

After experiencing my first board meeting, let me tell you that we are in good hands. Those who serve as members and consultants to the board are working hard for the betterment of our organization.

An important thing to remember...whereas those members of the board begin to create the history of FFA, it is really the members. YOU tell the board what you want to see changed, and YOU are the ones who get the final vote. If you ever want your voice to be heard and you feel it is not currently, please let myself or my teammates know. Just remember, the ability to create history is in your hands!