Several area FFA chapters joined forces for an unforgettable trip to the 97th National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana, from October 20-26, 2024. Spearheaded by Schuylerville FFA Advisor Mary Foote and the Schuylerville FFA Alumni and Supporters, the event saw active participation from Schuylerville, Salem, Greenwich, Argyle, and Galway FFA chapters. Cobleskill-Richmondville, Waterville, and Remsen FFA members also joined, creating a collaborative and educational experience that highlighted achievements, hands-on learning, and connection with FFA’s nationwide community.

The journey to the convention began with a scenic stop at Niagara Falls, where students took a thrilling ride on the iconic Maid of the Mist. Their itinerary then led them to Cleveland, Ohio, and into the heart of Indiana, where they visited Fair Oaks Farms. Known for its focus on sustainable farming, Fair Oaks provided students an in-depth tour of its Pig Adventure, offering an educational look at the stages of raising gilts and breeding pigs. At Ozark Fisheries, the oldest aquaculture facility in the U.S., students learned about koi and goldfish breeding, seeing the aquaculture industry’s processes from spawning to sale.

In Indianapolis, students immersed themselves in the convention’s workshops, FFA mall, and an extensive college and career fair. The fair showcased hundreds of colleges and agricultural businesses, offering students valuable guidance on post-graduation opportunities. Interactive exhibits by Tractor Supply Company, John Deere, and Case IH added hands-on experiences that brought agricultural concepts to life. A standout moment of the convention was the keynote speech by Temple Grandin, a trailblazer in animal behavior who has reshaped humane handling practices and travels the country advocating for the value of CTE programs and inclusivity in education.

Several local chapters received honors for their achievements at the convention. Salem FFA members Oliver Hickland, Jackson Kirchner, Erin Carney, and Mady Rea represented their chapter, along with Anna Maxwell, the 2024-2025 New York State FFA Secretary. Maxwell spent time as a convention delegate and hosted New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard Ball as he received his National FFA American Degree. (Anna and Comm. Ball shown above in center)

In a significant achievement, Schuylerville FFA member Taylor Barraclough (left) became the first National FFA Winner in Schuylerville’s history, securing the National Proficiency Award in Equine Science Entrepreneurship. Barraclough’s business, Violet Sales, is a successful operation where she breeds, raises, and markets horses. Her success reflects years of hard work and innovation, as she has grown the business from basic care operations to a comprehensive model involving strategic breeding and marketing. Her application was reviewed by a panel of judges, and Barraclough received the award at the convention’s 3rd General Session, marking a major milestone for District 3 FFA and New York State.

Barraclough also excelled in the Employment Skills Leadership Development Event (LDE), placing 9th nationally. This competition simulates real-world job applications, from submitting a cover letter and resume to completing multiple interview rounds, including a networking activity that challenged students to pitch their abilities in professional scenarios. This event tests students on job search skills critical to launching their careers and showcases their potential as future agricultural leaders.

Finally, two students received the highest degree attainable in the FFA. Schuylerville’s Caitlyn VanDeusen, (right) a Delaware Valley University sophomore, and Salem’s Anna Maxwell were awarded the American FFA Degree. This honor reflects years of dedication to their chapters and highlights their leadership, community involvement, and agricultural expertise.

The National FFA Convention provided these local FFA members with unparalleled opportunities to learn, compete, and connect with like-minded peers. From honing their skills in real-world simulations to celebrating accomplishments and finding inspiration in keynote speakers, this year’s convention served as a powerful reminder of the impact FFA has on its members and their futures in agriculture.

PICTURES PROVIDED