Student Leaders Prepare for 97th National FFA Convention & Expo

INDIANAPOLIS – FFA members and supporters from across the country will celebrate agriculture and agricultural education during the 97th National FFA Convention & Expo in Indianapolis. This time-honored tradition will be held Oct. 23-26.

The National FFA Organization is the nation's premier school-based youth leadership development organization with more 1 million members and 9,000 chapters in rural, suburban, and rural schools in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. FFA's mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. 

"Our FFA mission is to grow the next generation of leaders who will feed, fuel, clothe and sustain our world," says Mandy Hazlett, associate director, convention & events management programs. "Throughout the year FFA is focused on career success and personal development for every student member, no matter what path they choose after high school graduation. The 97th National FFA Convention & Expo is a culmination of hard work throughout the members' year as well as a prime opportunity to network with others from throughout the country." 

The National Convention & Expo is the largest gathering of FFA members each year. Attendees have the opportunity to compete, explore more than 350 careers, meet other members from across the country, shape the future of the organization, enjoy entertainment opportunities, and more.

475 FFA members from across the country will convene during the 97th National FFA Convention & Expo serving their role as convention delegates and conducting the organization's official business. 

On the last day of the event, the new National FFA Officer team, the six students who will represent the organization for the next year, will be elected. 

4,805 American FFA Degrees will be awarded during the 97th National FFA Convention & Expo, to outstanding members for their achievements in agricultural education and FFA. 

FFA members will make an estimated 4,000 loom potholders in collaboration with Meals on Wheels on the Expo Hall floor in the Indiana Convention Center. Potholders will be given to volunteers who hand out warm meals to homebound seniors and to those receiving the meals.

An estimated 3,185 delegates and FFA members will serve at 24 local non-profits to give back to the greater Indianapolis area.

Students will participate in a variety of competitive events which will focus on their Supervised Agricultural Experiences as well as on their FFA Chapter activities.

FFA members will also have the opportunity to participate in a Talent Competition. 

Convention & Expo officially kicks off Wednesday, Oct. 23, when the Expo Hall opens at Noon and concludes on Saturday afternoon, Oct. 26, with the election of the new National Officer Team.. 

Those unable to attend in person are encouraged to watch on "FFA Live!", FFA's streaming broadcast beginning with the first drop of the gavel on Wednesday, Oct. 23 and ending with the election of the 2024-25 National FFA Officers on Saturday, Oct. 26. Additionally, student reporters will be hosting Inside Convention, a daily highlight show of all the key happenings at convention. The show will air at 11 a.m.EDT each day of the event and be available online at any time. Visit convention.ffa.org for more information.