INDIANAPOLIS, IND – Nine members of the Broken Bow FFA Chapter traveled to Indianapolis, Indiana on October 28 – November 1 to participate in the 98th National FFA Convention and Expo. There, they joined more than 65,000 FFA members, advisors and guests from across the nation in a celebration of leadership, agricultural education, and student achievement.
The group began their trip with a tour of Iowa State University in Ames, where students explored the campus and learned about academic programs and student life opportunities within ISU’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.
While at the convention, members attended the Opening Session at Lucas Oil Stadium where they heard from keynote speaker A’ric Jackson, who challenged students not to be afraid of “breaking their box.” Students also participated in leadership development workshops, networked with agricultural industry professionals, and explored career pathways at the National FFA Expo.
On Thursday, the chapter took part in agricultural and cultural experiences in Louisville, Kentucky, including a guided tour of the Louisville Slugger baseball bat factory and a visit to the historic Churchill Downs racetrack, home of the Kentucky Derby.
A highlight of the week was celebrating Broken Bow FFA alumnus Lucas Bell, who received the prestigious American FFA Degree – the organization’s highest level of achievement. Fewer than one percent of FFA Members nationwide earn this honor, which recognizes outstanding leadership, community service, and accomplishments in a student’s supervised agricultural experience.
“It’s powerful to watch our students step into new environments, meet new people, and recognize the opportunities available to them,” said FFA Advisor Caleb tenBensel. “This trip reminds me that leadership takes many forms, and that each student has incredible power to make a meaningful difference.”
The Broken Bow FFA Chapter extends appreciation to the community, school administration, and supporters who made this experience possible.
