OFFICIAL

FFA MANUAL
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

School-Based Agricultural
Education Three-Component Model

When you put on an FFA jacket, you become part of a school-based agricultural education
program that can connect you to exciting careers in the science, business and technology
of agriculture. FFA is one of three essential components of this integrated system, which
work together to provide personal, academic and career experiences that help you build
success.

School-based agricultural education is delivered through career and technical education

in the United States, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Approximately one million
agricultural education students are taught by more than 13,000 secondary, two-year
postsecondary and adult instructors in more than 8,000 schools. School-based agricultural
education consists of three integral core components:

1. Classroom and laboratory instruction that is contextual,

inquiry-based and interactive.
2. FFA, which helps members develop premier leadership, personal growth
and career success.
3. Supervised agricultural experience (SAE) programs that allow
you to apply knowledge and skills through experiential, service and
work-based learning opportunities.

CLASSROOM/
LABORATORY
Contextual, inquiry-based
instruction and learning
through an interactive
classroom and laboratory.

School
Based
Agricultural
SAE
Education FFA
Experiential, service and/or Premier leadership, personal
work-based learning through the growth and career success
implementation of a supervised through engagement in FFA.
agricultural experience program.

2
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

National FFA Organization

Headquarters
6060 FFA Drive
Indianapolis, IN 46268-0960
317-802-6060
888-332-2668
FFA.org

For Members of the

National FFA Organization
More than 90 years of service to youth in agriculture.

The National FFA Organization is a resource and support organization that does not select,
control or supervise state association, local chapter or individual member activities.

The National FFA Organization affirms its belief in the value of all human beings and seeks
diversity in its membership, leadership and staff as an equal opportunity employer.

Electronic text files for preparation of materials for the visually impaired can be obtained by
contacting the National FFA Organization’s educational resource team, 317-802-6060.

The Official FFA Manual is available on FFA.org at no cost to you. This online version will be
updated each year and will serve as the official version of the manual. The print edition is
available for purchase on ShopFFA.org.

© 2020 National FFA Organization. All rights reserved.

3
OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

Table of Contents
The FFA Mission and Strategies........................................................................................................................6

» FFA History
What Is FFA?........................................................................................................................................................................................9
FFA Organization Structure......................................................................................................................................................10
Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) Programs.................................................................................................11
Program of Activities.................................................................................................................................................................... 13
Middle School Activities..............................................................................................................................................................14
History of FFA.................................................................................................................................................................................... 15
History of New Farmers of America (NFA).......................................................................................................................16
Past National Presidents of FFA and NFA........................................................................................................................17
Historical Timeline of FFA..........................................................................................................................................................19
National FFA Organization Membership by State...................................................................................................... 25

» FFA Traditions
Emblem............................................................................................................................................................................................... 26
Motto..................................................................................................................................................................................................... 27
Creed..................................................................................................................................................................................................... 27
Colors.....................................................................................................................................................................................................28
Salute....................................................................................................................................................................................................28
Official Dress.....................................................................................................................................................................................28
Proper Use of the FFA Jacket...........................................................................................................................................29
Give the Gift of Blue Program................................................................................................................................................ 29
Responsibilities of Members...................................................................................................................................................30
FFA Code of Ethics........................................................................................................................................................................30
Kinds of FFA Membership........................................................................................................................................................30
FFA Degrees....................................................................................................................................................................................... 31
Procedure for Equating Hours Worked With Dollars Earned (American FFA Degree).................. 33

» FFA Ceremonies
Opening and Closing Ceremonies....................................................................................................................................... 35
Discovery FFA Degree Ceremony......................................................................................................................................... 37
Greenhand FFA Degree Ceremony.....................................................................................................................................38
Chapter FFA Degree Ceremony........................................................................................................................................... 40
State FFA Degree Ceremony....................................................................................................................................................41
American FFA Degree Ceremony.........................................................................................................................................42
Honorary Member Ceremony................................................................................................................................................ 44
FFA Alumni and Supporters Membership Induction Ceremony.......................................................................45
Ceremony for Installing Officers...........................................................................................................................................46

» FFA Chapter Operations

National Quality FFA Chapter Standards.........................................................................................................................47
Program of Activities.................................................................................................................................................................. 48
Chapter Officers..............................................................................................................................................................................50
Becoming a State or National Officer......................................................................................................................... 52
Chapter Meetings.......................................................................................................................................................................... 52
Planning Chapter Meetings.............................................................................................................................................. 52
Arranging the Meeting Room.......................................................................................................................................... 52
The American Flag.................................................................................................................................................................. 53
Order of Business.................................................................................................................................................................... 53

4
 Parliamentary Procedure....................................................................................................................................................54
Use of the Gavel.................................................................................................................................................................54
Summary of Parliamentary Motions...................................................................................................................... 55
Chapter Banquet............................................................................................................................................................................56
Public Relations.............................................................................................................................................................................. 57
Tips for Social Networking........................................................................................................................................................58
FFA Resources.................................................................................................................................................................................59

» Teacher Outreach.........................................................................................................................................................61

» FFA Programs, Events and Platforms

Living to Serve..................................................................................................................................................................................61
Service Engagement..............................................................................................................................................................61
Community Service.................................................................................................................................................................61
Service-Learning.......................................................................................................................................................................61
National FFA Week........................................................................................................................................................................61
We Are FFA........................................................................................................................................................................................ 62
Agricultural Literacy and Advocacy.................................................................................................................................... 62
Leadership Conferences............................................................................................................................................................ 62
State FFA Officer Leadership Continuum....................................................................................................................... 63
State FFA Officer Enrichment Programs.........................................................................................................................64
National FFA Convention & Expo..........................................................................................................................................64

» Awards and Recognitions

Agriscience Fair...............................................................................................................................................................................65
Career and Leadership Development Events (CDEs/LDEs) .................................................................................65
National Chapter Award Program.......................................................................................................................................66
Model of Excellence......................................................................................................................................................................66
Premier Chapter Awards.....................................................................................................................................................67
Middle School Model of Excellence..............................................................................................................................67
Proficiency Awards.......................................................................................................................................................................67
SAE Grants.........................................................................................................................................................................................68
Honorary Awards............................................................................................................................................................................68
Scholarships......................................................................................................................................................................................69
Star Awards........................................................................................................................................................................................69

» National FFA Alumni and Supporters............................................................................................... 72

» National FFA Foundation.................................................................................................................................. 73

» National FFA Policies

National FFA Organization Constitution and Bylaws...............................................................................................74
Legislation: Public Law 105-225.............................................................................................................................................87
Official Board Policy on FFA Trademarks.........................................................................................................................91

5
 National FFA
Organization
DELIVERY OF THE FFA MISSION

Platforms for
FFA Components delivery of
Mission of mission mission

• Action • Agricultural advocacy

• Relationships • Agricultural knowledge
• Vision • Agricultural literacy
Premier • Character • Career exploration
Leadership
• Awareness • Food security
• Continuous • Inclusion
improvement • Leadership concepts
• Service engagement
• Physical growth
• Social growth
Personal • Professional growth
Growth • Mental growth
• Emotional growth
• Spiritual growth

• Communications
• Decision making
Career • Flexibility/adaptability
Success
• Technical/functional
skills in agriculture

FFA Mission: FFA makes a positive difference in the lives of students by

developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and
career success through agricultural education.
This document connects the FFA mission to the FFA vision and explains how we deliver premier
leadership, personal growth and career success. Over the years, the FFA mission has remained
constant. How the mission is delivered has changed, and it will continue to do so in order for FFA to
remain relevant in the future.

FFA is the premier youth development organization for school-based agricultural education students
that provides life-changing experiences for its members. Those experiences are driven by a strong
mission and a compelling vision.

This “Delivery of the FFA Mission” document was created to serve as a reference guide to help explain
the what, why and how of delivering the FFA mission.

To learn more, visit FFA.org.

College/career-
Delivered ready students Guiding
through prepared for Principles

Grow Leaders
• Awards and • Agricultural careers
recognition - Agribusiness systems Build
• Competitive events - Animal systems Communities
• Conferences - Biotechnology systems
• Conventions - Environmental service Strengthen
Agriculture
• Educational resources systems
• Experiential learning - Food products and
• Online experiences processing systems
• State association - Natural resources
activities/events systems
• Local chapter - Plant systems
activities/events - Power, structural and
technical systems
• Non-Agricultural careers

FFA Vision: FFA provides the next generation of leaders who will change
the world.

©
2020 National FFA Organization
OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

The FFA Mission

Character
Do you possess a collection of virtues by
which to live your life?
FFA makes a positive difference in the lives
of students by developing their potential Awareness
for premier leadership, personal growth Do you have a quest for purposeful
and career success through agricultural understanding?
education. Continuous Improvement
Have you shown the pursuit of learning and
To accomplish this mission, FFA: growth?
• Develops competent and assertive
agricultural leadership. Personal Growth
• Increases awareness of the global and Definition: The positive evolution of the whole
technological importance of agriculture person.
and its contribution to our well-being.
Physical Growth
• Strengthens agriculture students’
Are you striving to remain healthy by
confidence in themselves and their work.
understanding, respecting and managing
• Promotes the intelligent choice and
your body’s needs?
establishment of an agricultural career.
• Encourages achievement in supervised Social Growth
agricultural experience (SAE) programs. Can you have successful interaction that
• Encourages wise management of the respects the differences of a diverse and
community’s economic, environmental changing society?
and human resources.
Professional Growth
• Develops interpersonal skills in teamwork,
Do you have an awareness and application of
communication, human relations and
skills necessary for career success?
social interaction.
• Builds character and promotes citizenship, Mental Growth
volunteerism and patriotism. Are you developing the effective application
• Promotes cooperation and cooperative of reasoning, thinking and coping?
attitudes among all people. Emotional Growth
• Promotes healthy lifestyles. Have you experienced the development of
• Encourages excellence in scholarship. healthy responses to your feelings?

FFA Mission Precepts Spiritual Growth

Components of premier leadership, personal Do you have the reflective inner strength

growth and career success: to allow you to define your personal beliefs,
values, principles and sense of balance?

Premier Leadership
Definition: Influence. Career Success
Definition: Continuously demonstrating those
Action qualities, attributes and skills necessary to
Do you have the skills and competencies succeed in, or further prepare for, a chosen
needed to achieve the desired results? profession while effectively contributing to
Relationships society.
Can you build a constituency through Communications
listening, coaching, understanding and Have you developed the oral, written and
appreciating others? verbal means whereby interaction takes
Vision place?
Have you set a clear image of what the future Decision Making
should be? Do you have the ability to analyze a situation
and execute an appropriate course of action?

8
Flexibility/Adaptability The following organizations make up The
Do you have the traits that allow you to be National Council for Agricultural Education:
capable of and willing to change? • Agricultural Education Division of the
Association for Career and Technical
Technical/Function Skills in Agriculture
Education (ACTE)
Do you have the knowledge and skills
• American Association of Agricultural
needed for a career in agriculture and related
Educators (AAAE)
industries?
• Association of Public and Land Grant
Universities (APLU)
• National Association of Agricultural
Educators (NAAE)
• National Association of Supervisors of
Agricultural Education (NASAE)
• National FFA Alumni and Supporters
The National Council for
• National FFA Foundation
Agricultural Education
• National FFA Organization
(thecouncil.ffa.org)
• National Farm & Ranch Business
The National Council for Agricultural
Management Education Association
Education is the coordinating leadership
(NFRBMEA)
organization for shaping and strengthening
• National Postsecondary Agricultural
school-based agricultural education at all
Student Organization (PAS)
levels in the United States.
• National Young Farmer Educational
The National Council for Agricultural Association (NYFEA)
Education Mission:
The mission of The National Council for
Agricultural Education is to establish high-
What Is FFA?
quality agricultural education programs in
FFA is the top school-based youth leadership
America’s schools by stimulating:
development organization in the United
• The preparation, retention and
States. FFA cultivates and nurtures future
advancement of high-quality agriculture
leaders who go on to change how the world
educators.
grows. Through a unique combination of
• The development of programs that
education, experiential learning, and service-
prepare students for academic and career
based opportunities rooted in agriculture,
success.
FFA empowers middle and high school
• Program innovation and adaptability
students to become our next generation of
in response to changing student and
courageous and knowledgeable leaders.
industry needs.
• The use of research-based practices in
Membership in FFA requires middle and
agricultural education programs at all
high school students to be enrolled in a local
levels.
school-based agricultural education program
• Expanded opportunities for students
and involved in a supervised agricultural
to experience high-quality educational
experience. Students engaged in FFA find
programs in agriculture.
out who they are, who they want to become
and how they can make an impact. They
gain increased agricultural literacy, prepare
for success in an ever-changing future, and
demonstrate selflessness and citizenship
through courageous acts of service.

FFA is an acronym that stands for Future

Farmers of America — the organization’s
original name as established in 1928.
However, the national organization was
officially renamed National FFA Organization

9
OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

National FFA Structure

You! An FFA Member

Local Chapter
• Local FFA Alumni and Chapter Members
Supporters Chapter Chapter Officers
Chapter Advisor
Agricultural Education Program Advisory Committee
School Administration and Board of Education

Possible district,
area, region
• State FFA Alumni State Association or federation
and Supporters Chapter Delegates FFA associations
• State FFA Foundation State Officers
State Advisor and State Leaders
State Department of Education

• National FFA National FFA Organization

Alumni and Supporters State Delegates
• National FFA National Officers
Foundation National Advisory Leaders
National Board of Directors
U.S. Department of Education

by the delegates to the 1988 National FFA mission. Adult chapter advisors — typically
Convention. Those delegates wanted the local agricultural education instructors —
organization’s name to reflect how the guide chapter and member activities. Local
growth of agriculture and agricultural chapters are chartered by state associations.
education encompassed more than 250
careers in the science, business, and State associations implement activities,
technology of agriculture. The organization events and competitions for local chapter
has used the FFA acronym as its primary participation; select state officers; and
name ever since, illustrating how FFA is an coordinate with state government officials
organization for all. to strengthen their state’s overall program
of agricultural education. The associations

FFA Organization also oversee possible district, area, region or

federation associations within their states.
Structure State associations are chartered by the
national organization.
Active membership participation drives the
organization. As a student-led organization, The National FFA Organization is led
FFA is structured with three primary levels: by a board of directors and six student
local, state and national. national officers. Together, they act upon
recommendations passed by national
Local chapters enroll members, elect chapter delegates and agricultural education
officers, and engage in activities, events and stakeholders to establish the vision and policy
competitions related to the organization’s for FFA. Staff employed by the National FFA

10
 Foundational SAE – Every student in
1. 
an agricultural education program
should start a foundational SAE. Learn
the different facets of agriculture and
what careers in agriculture may interest
you. Start learning personal financial
management and planning and how
to safely live and work in agriculture.
Research and create a class presentation
about careers in agriculture or visit an
agricultural operation or company to
learn more about the industry. Shadow
a worker in an agricultural career. With
this foundational knowledge, think about
implementing one or more of the five
immersion SAE categories listed on the
next page.

Note: Agricultural literacy and career

exploration may be part of class work.
Class work hours do not apply to the
attainment of FFA awards or degrees.

Ownership/Entrepreneurship – You
2. 
Organization carries out policies and provides want to be the boss? Now’s your chance.
programs and services for the organization. Own and operate an agriculture-related
business or enterprise providing goods
Supervised Agricultural Experience or services. Start small and watch what
If you want to be the master of your universe, happens with hard work and perseverance.
including what you learn in school-based The basic requirements are that you own
agricultural education, your supervised the enterprise, make the management
agricultural experience (SAE) is a critical decisions and take the financial risk with
component. Your SAE is one of the best ways the ultimate goal of earning a profit. As
to control what you learn, do and earn. For part of an ownership/entrepreneurship
many SAEs, there is potential to earn cash, SAE, you might own and operate a lawn
awards and recognition in your community, care service or an agricultural website or
your state and nationally. you could produce bedding plants, flowers,
crops; raise animals; or sell fish. You
An SAE is an entrepreneurial or work-based could cut and sell firewood or train dogs.
learning experience related to your career Use your imagination; the possibilities in
interests and goals. It is year-round, led by agriculture are endless.
you—the student—and supervised by your
agricultural education instructor. An SAE Placement/Internship – If you want to
3. 
consists of projects or enterprises within experience the world of work, this is the
the agriculture, food and natural resources SAE type for you. You will gain experience
(AFNR) career pathways where you apply and knowledge through working for an
agricultural skills and knowledge taught in agricultural employer, and you may be
the classroom to real-world experiences. paid too. Your job or internship could be
on a farm or ranch or in an agricultural
There are six types of SAEs. Your program business, school laboratory, or community
may include any one of these types or even a facility. Track your progress by keeping
combination of several types of enterprises or records of the number of hours you work,
projects. Below are the six types of SAEs and your responsibilities and any earnings.
an example of each: Your placement SAE might involve
working for your local farm supply store

11
OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

after school, hiring on as a horse groomer must provide goods and/or services that
at a riding stable, or making and selling meet the needs of an identified market. A
floral arrangements in a florist shop. This few examples of school-based enterprises
type of SAE can also include volunteering include raising livestock in a school facility;
your time. You could volunteer at the renting a portion of the school land lab
local animal shelter or park or teach a or greenhouse to raise plants for sale;
gardening or animal care class. building livestock panels; or repairing
lawnmowers in the school shop. Work
Research-Based SAE – If you like to
4.  with your teacher to find out what facilities
research, invent or analyze, this is the are available, form a cooperative, an LLC,
SAE for you. Using the scientific process, a partnership or some other business
discover new agricultural knowledge or structure, and get rolling.
validate current knowledge and research.
As a part of your research SAE, you verify Service-Learning – In a service-learning
6. 
and demonstrate or learn about scientific SAE, on your own or with other students,
principles in agriculture. Some examples of you’ll conduct a needs assessment. Set
research opportunities include researching the goals, objectives and budget and
the effects of cropping practices on then promote, implement, and evaluate a
wildlife populations, comparing plant service-learning project. The project may
growth of hydroponics and conventional be for a school, a community organization,
methods or investigating the perceptions religious institution or nonprofit
of community members toward alternative organization. It cannot be for the benefit
agricultural practices. of an FFA chapter. The project must be
pre-approved by a local review committee
School-Based Enterprise – Don’t have all
5.  that includes your agricultural education
the resources to start a business at home? teacher and community stakeholders. It
Gather some like-minded students and must be a stand-alone project, not part of
start or continue one at school. This type an ongoing chapter project or community
of SAE is owned and managed by you fundraiser. The project must align to the
and your fellow students using school Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources
facilities. It must take place outside of (AFNR) Technical Standards and Career
teacher-directed class instruction time and Ready Practices.

12
Included as part of each type of SAE program a fruit tree, changing oil in a sod cutter,
are: cutting firewood with a chain saw, caring
for fish in an aquarium, taking care of
A. Improvement projects. livestock on your school farm or growing
bedding plants in your school greenhouse.
B. Supplemental skills development.
SAE-Based Awards
Improvement projects and supplemental There are three different award programs
skills development are part of your total SAE. through which student SAEs may be
These activities complement the enterprises developed or honored:
and projects you select to include in your
SAE. In some cases, students start with A. SAE Grants – FFA members can apply for a
improvement projects or supplemental skills $1,000 grant through National FFA to start
development that lead to the development of or expand an SAE enterprise or project.
major enterprises included in their total SAE. Find out more on page 68 or
FFA.org/SAEgrants.
Improvement – Do you like to make
• 
something look better, like your home or B. Proficiency Awards – Many but not all SAE
workplace, or improve the efficiency of a enterprises will qualify in one of the many
business or the living conditions of your FFA proficiency award areas available each
family? An improvement program involves year. You can find details on page 67 or on
a series of steps and usually requires FFA.org/proficiencies.
several days, if not weeks and months,
for completion. Examples may include C. Star Awards – Top FFA degree recipients
overhauling a piece of equipment or each year are recognized at the local, state
landscaping a home. and national levels in one of four different
award categories. Learn more on page 69.
Supplemental – This takes less than a
• 
day and is not related to your major SAE Program of Activities
but is normally taught in agriculture A Program of Activities (POA) serves to define
class, involves experiential learning, and chapter goals, outline steps needed to meet
enhances your agricultural skills and those goals and act as a written guide to
knowledge. Possibilities include pruning provide a calendar of events the chapter will

13
OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

follow in the year ahead. The POA is divided The following programs are open for
into three divisions: participation to all FFA members and
• Growing Leaders chapters, including those in middle school:
• Building Communities • Service Engagement/Living to Serve
• Strengthening Agriculture • Agriscience Fair
• Career and Leadership Development Events
Every year, each FFA chapter takes time to • Discovery FFA Degree
plan ways to provide engaging opportunities • National Chapter Award Program
focused on growing leaders, building • Partners in Active Learning Support
communities and strengthening agriculture. (PALS)
• SAE Grants
Chapter meetings are held regularly. By
participating in the meetings, members learn The Creed speaking and conduct of chapter
communication, planning and parliamentary meetings leadership development events
skills. Recreation and refreshments aid are designed for and limited to members in
in developing fellowship before and after grades 7-9.
meetings.
In addition, FFA recognizes the top five
Middle School Activities Middle School Model of Excellence chapters
Middle school agricultural education/FFA in the National Chapter Award Program.
offers experiential, hands-on activities that They are also eligible to compete for Premier
middle school students need and enjoy. FFA Chapter Awards through the National
offers these students the opportunity to start Chapter Award Program.
developing self-discipline, organizational
and leadership skills, and a high regard for For more information on middle school
teamwork. Through participation in FFA, programs, go to FFA.org and search middle
middle school students also: school FFA programs.
• Gain a sense of belonging and of being a
part of something larger than themselves.
• Increase their opportunity to learn and
explore important issues and career
opportunities related to agriculture.

14
History

history
ffa
FFA
The original idea for the organization of
FFA developed after courses in vocational
agriculture were established by the Smith-
Hughes National Vocational Education Act
in 1917.

In the early 1920s, Virginia formed a Future

Farmers club for boys in agriculture classes.
This innovation caught fire across the
country, and the national organization was
established in 1928 at the Baltimore Hotel in
Kansas City, Mo. National dues to the Future
Farmers of America were set at 10 cents per
member.

Membership grew, and the following

year’s convention was distinguished by
the selection of the national colors and the
naming of the first Star Farmer of America.
As the years went by, the organization began
providing services to support its expanding girls to become members of the national
membership. In 1939, a national FFA camp organization.
was founded on the grounds of the original
national center in Alexandria, Va. The 1970s and ’80s would bring a host of new
programs and changes, designed to keep
The National FFA Foundation, Inc., was pace with the evolving membership and the
created in 1944 to provide funds from rapidly changing needs of the industry of
business and industry to support new agriculture. In 1969 the delegates voted to
programs. Public Law 740, passed by establish an alumni class of membership. By
Congress in 1950, granted FFA a federal 1971, nine states had chartered state alumni
charter. Public Law 740 was revised in 1979. associations, and the National FFA Alumni
The year 1952 marked the establishment of Association was up and running. Public Law
The National Future Farmer magazine. 740 was revised in 1979. In 1988, the delegates
voted to change the official name from the
A consolidation of FFA and the New Farmers Future Farmers of America to the National
of America, the organization for African- FFA Organization. In 1998, to ensure that the
American agriculture students, took place constitution was not in conflict with the FFA
in 1965. More new members were admitted Federal Charter, a technical amendment was
in 1969 when the delegates voted to allow passed by the delegates at the 71st National

15
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

FFA Convention clarifying that the name of The National FFA Organization is a driving
the organization is the Future Farmers of force in developing leadership in today’s
America, but the organization shall be known youth. Active participation in career and
as and shall do business as the National FFA leadership development events, chapter
Organization. Another name change occurred meetings, award and recognition programs,
in 1989, when the magazine changed its committees and service and community
name to FFA New Horizons. Also in 1998, projects provide FFA members with
Public Law 740 underwent technical revision opportunities to develop personal leadership
history

and became Publication 105-225 by the 105th skills. The organization motivates young
ffa

Congress. people to make positive contributions to their

homes, schools, communities, country and
The National FFA Center was dedicated in the world.
Indianapolis in 1998. It houses the National
FFA Organization, including its alumni
and supporters staff and the National FFA
Foundation. On June 1, 1998, the Agricultural
Education National Headquarters opened its
doors in Alexandria, Va. This office housed the
National FFA Headquarters Operations Office,
along with the national FFA advisor/board
chair and national FFA executive secretary
until 2019. The organization also benefits
from its strong relationship with the Office of
Career, Technical and Adult Education in the
U.S. Department of Education.

In 2019, the 116th Congress reviewed and

passed additional amendments to the
FFA Federal Charter as Public Law 116-7. In NFA
addition to the changes to the FFA Federal The New Farmers of America was an
Charter, the National FFA Constitution and agricultural organization for African-American
Bylaws were amended at the 92nd National students prior to the merger of NFA with FFA
FFA Convention in October 2019 and ratified in 1965. Like FFA, the NFA was founded in
by the National FFA Board of Directors on Virginia. Three individuals who were
Nov. 11, 2019.

16
 Past National
instrumental in starting the organization

history
ffa
were G.W. Owens and J.R. Thomas, teacher
educators in agricultural education at Virginia Presidents
State College who co-wrote a constitution
and bylaws for the New Farmers of Virginia, National FFA Presidents
and Dr. H.O. Sargent, a federal agricultural 1928-29 Leslie Applegate, New Jersey
education official who conceived the idea of 1929-30 Wade Turner, North Carolina
the New Farmers of America organization. 1930-31 Leslie Fry, Missouri
1931-32 Kenneth Pettibone, Oregon
The first state meeting for the New Farmers 1932-33 Vernon Howell, Oklahoma
of Virginia was in May 1927. Other states 1933-34 Bobby Jones, Ohio
soon established similar groups and formed 1934-35 Andrew Sundstrom, South Dakota
regional organizations. In August 1935, a 1935-36 William Shaffer, Virginia
national conference was held in Tuskegee, 1936-37 Joe Black, Wyoming
Ala., and the New Farmers of America 1937-38 J. Lester Poucher, Florida
officially came into existence. In the early 1938-39 Robert Elwell, Maine
days of the NFA, the national convention 1939-40 Ivan Kindschi, Wisconsin
rotated from state to state on the campuses 1940-41 D. Harold Prichard, Mississippi
of the 1890 land-grant colleges of the South. 1941-42 Irvin J. Schenk, Indiana
Later, the national convention was held 1942-43 Harold Gum, West Virginia*
every year in Atlanta, Ga., in the municipal 1942-43 Marvin Jagels, Idaho*
auditorium. 1943-44 Robert Bowman, California
1944-45 Oliver H. Kinzie, Oklahoma
There were many similarities between 1945-46 J. Glyndon Stuff, Illinois
the NFA and FFA. The NFA Creed had six 1946-47 Gus R. Douglass Jr., West Virginia
paragraphs and each paragraph began with 1947-48 Ervin Martin, Indiana
“I Believe.” The emblem had the outline of 1948-49 Doyle Conner, Florida
a boll of cotton instead of an ear of corn; 1949-50 George Lewis, Illinois
otherwise, it was the same as the FFA 1950-51 Walter Cummings, Oklahoma
emblem. The colors were black and gold as 1951-52 Donald Staheli, Utah
were their corduroy jackets. National NFA 1952-53 Jimmy Dillon, Louisiana
Week was celebrated during the week of 1953-54 David H. Boyne, Michigan
April 5, the birthday of Booker T. Washington. 1954-55 William D. Gunter Jr., Florida
The NFA also had an award called the 1955-56 Daniel Dunham, Oregon
H.O. Sargent Award, which was the most 1956-57 John M. Haid Jr., Arkansas
prestigious award for their organization. The 1957-58 Howard Downing, Kentucky
award honored a young man who had been 1958-59 Adin Hester, Oregon
out of school from three to 10 years and was 1959-60 Jim Thomas, Georgia
established in farming. 1960-61 Lyle Carpenter, Colorado
1961-62 Victor Butler Jr., Florida
1962-63 Kenny McMillan, Illinois
1963-64 Nels Ackerson, Indiana
1964-65 Kenneth Kennedy, Kentucky
1965-66 Howard Williams, North Carolina
1966-67 Gary Swan, New York
1967-68 Greg Bamford, Colorado
1968-69 Jeff Hanlon, Oregon
1969-70 Harry Birdwell, Oklahoma
1970-71 Dan Lehmann, Illinois
1971-72 Tim J. Burke, Iowa
1972-73 Dwight O. Seegmiller, Iowa
1973-74 G. Mark Mayfield, Kansas
1974-75 Alpha E. Trivette, Virginia
1975-76 Bobby Tucker, Texas

17
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

1976-77 C. James Bode Jr., Oklahoma National NFA Presidents

1977-78 J. Ken Johnson, Texas 1935-36 David Simmons, Alabama
1978-79 Mark Sanborn, Ohio 1936-37 Elbert Pettiford, North Carolina
1979-80 Douglas C. Rinker, Virginia 1937-38 E. Porter, Tennessee
1980-81 Mark Herndon, Oklahoma 1938-39 Lester Albert, Florida
1981-82 Scott Neasham, Iowa 1939-40 Jethro Hill, Arkansas
1982-83 Jan Eberly, California 1940-41 James Warren Jr., North Carolina
1983-84 Ron Wineinger, Kansas
history

1941-42 Henry Revels, Louisiana

1984-85 Steve Meredith, Kentucky 1942-43 Lawrence Reddick Jr., Florida
ffa

1985-86 Rick Malir, Kansas 1943-44 Amos Henry, Arkansas

1986-87 Kevin Eblen, Iowa 1944-45 Ollie Hines, Virginia
1987-88 Kelli Evans, Nebraska 1945-46 Sam Horton, Florida
1988-89 Dana Soukup, Nebraska 1946-47 Lawrence Price, Texas
1989-90 Donnell Brown, Texas 1947-48 James Bryant, North Carolina
1990-91 Mark Timm, Indiana 1948-49 Rupert Seals, Kentucky
1991-92 Lee Thurber, Nebraska 1949-50 Dudley DeRouen, Texas
1992-93 Travis D. Park, Indiana 1950-51 Calvin I. James, North Carolina
1993-94 Curtis C. Childers, Texas 1951-52 Curtis Cooper, Georgia
1994-95 Corey D. Flournoy, Illinois 1952-53 Oliver Hunter, Texas**
1995-96 Seth Derner, Nebraska 1952-53 John Johnson, Kentucky
1996-97 Corey Rosenbusch, Texas 1953-54 Frances Thompson, Maryland
1997-98 Hillary Smith, Georgia 1954-55 William Jones, South Carolina
1998-99 Lisa E. Ahrens, Iowa 1955-56 Cecil Strickland, Texas
1999-00 Chris Vitelli, Florida 1956-57 Marvin Roundtree, North Carolina
2000-01 Trent McKnight, Texas 1957-58 John Knox Jr., Alabama
2001-02 Dane White, California 1958-59 Martin Goodson, Alabama
2002-03 Tim Hammerich, California 1959-60 Robert Mack, Virginia
2003-04 Javier Moreno, Puerto Rico 1960-61 Harley Blane, Kentucky
2004-05 Jackie Mundt, Wisconsin 1961-62 William Love, Texas
2005-06 Travis Jett, Oklahoma 1962-63 Samuel Tate, North Carolina
2006-07 Beau Williamson, California 1963-64 Robert Boone, Tennessee
2007-08 Zach Kinne, Missouri 1964-65 Adolphus Pinson, Texas
2008-09 Paul Moya, New Mexico
2009-10 Levy Randolph, California **Resigned
2010-11 Riley Pagett, Oklahoma
2011-12 Ryan Best, New Mexico
2012-13 Clay Sapp, Florida
2013-14 Brian Walsh, Virginia
2014-15 Andy Paul, Georgia
2015-16 Taylor McNeel, Arkansas
2016-17 David Townsend, Delaware
2017-18 Breanna Holbert, California
2018-19 Luke O’Leary, California
2019-20 Kolesen McCoy, Ohio

*Harold Gum resigned his office to join the

military, and vice president Marvin Jagels
replaced him as national president.

18
Historical
was sponsored until 1949 by the Kansas

history
ffa
City Star.
Timeline of FFA • First National Chapter Contest is launched
and sponsored by Farm Journal magazine.
• At the Second National FFA Convention in
1917 November, 33 states are represented by 64
• The Smith-Hughes National Vocational delegates.
Education Act, (both Senator Hoke Smith • Thirty-five state associations with
and Representative Dudley Hughes were approximately 1,500 chapters and 30,000
from Georgia) establishes vocational members are affiliated with the national
agriculture courses. organization.

1925 1930
• Virginia Tech agricultural education • Official FFA Creed, written by E.M. Tiffany,
teacher educators Henry C. Groseclose, is adopted.
Harry W. Sanders, Walter S. Newman and • Edward Drace from Missouri wins the first
Edmund C. Magill organize the Future National Public Speaking event.
Farmers of Virginia (FFV) for boys in • First Official Dress uniform is adopted:
agriculture classes. The FFV serves as the dark blue shirt, blue or white pants, blue
model for the Future Farmers of America. cap and yellow tie.
• Delegates restrict FFA membership to
1926
boys only.
• The First National Congress of Vocational
• First FFA Manual printed by The Farm
Agriculture Students assembles for a
Journal of Philadelphia.
National Livestock Judging Contest at the
American Royal Livestock and Horse Show 1931
in Kansas City, Mo. • The National FFA Radio Program on NBC is
launched.
1927
• H.O. Sargent, a federal agent for 1932
agricultural education for African- • A charter is granted to the Puerto Rico FFA
Americans at the U.S. Office of Education, Association.
and G.W. Owens, a teacher-trainer at
Virginia State College, write the first 1933
constitution and bylaws for the New • Blue corduroy jacket is adopted as Official
Farmers of Virginia, an organization for Dress.
African-American agriculture students. The • A group of FFA officers and members
organization holds its first state rally that make a pilgrimage to Washington, D.C.,
same year. where they are greeted on the White
House lawn by President Franklin D.
1928 Roosevelt.
• Future Farmers of America is established
in Kansas City, Mo. 1935
• First National FFA Convention is held in • NFA is founded as a national organization
Kansas City, Mo.: 33 delegates from 18 at the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama.
states are in attendance. • David Simmons of Alabama is elected as
• Leslie Applegate from New Jersey is the first national NFA president.
elected first national FFA president. • Active FFA membership exceeds 100,000
• First sectional gathering of New Farmers members.
of America (NFA) members is held. 1937
1929 • During the National FFA Convention,
• National blue and corn gold are adopted action is taken to establish a national FFA
as official FFA colors. camp and leadership training school in
• Carlton Patton from Arkansas is named Washington, D.C.
the first Star Farmer of America. This is one
of the first awards created by FFA, and it

19
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

1939 1948
• 28.5 acres of land is purchased near • The first FFA Chorus and National FFA
Alexandria, Va., for the first FFA-owned Talent program is held at the National FFA
national headquarters; the land was once Convention.
part of George Washington’s estate. • National FFA Supply Service begins
• Identical twins Albert and Arthur Lacy operation.
from Hondo, Texas, become the only • Record jump in membership from 238,269
history

members ever to share the title of Star in 1947 to 260,300 in 1948. So many
Farmer of America. members (10,000) attend the 20th National
ffa

• The H.O. Sargent Trophy Award is created FFA Convention that a folding-cot hotel is
to honor H.O. Sargent’s commitment to set up in the basement of the Municipal
helping NFA members achieve success Auditorium in Kansas City, Mo.
and leadership in agriculture. • First FFA Week is celebrated during the
week of George Washington’s birthday.
1942
• FFA members join in the war effort. Three 1949
former FFA members—Robert Gray from • The first International Exchange Program
Texas, Travis Hoover from California and for FFA members begins with Young
Melvin Jordan from Oklahoma—serve Farmers Club of Great Britain.
with then Lt. Col. Jimmy Doolittle and
1950
participate in the famous air raid on Tokyo.
• The 81st U.S. Congress passes a bill that
• During World War II, delegates revise FFA
grants a federal charter to Future Farmers
membership rules so time served in the
of America. President Harry S. Truman
armed forces will not count in determining
signs the bill on Aug. 30, and it becomes
a member’s period of eligibility.
Public Law 81-740.
• During the war years, national conventions
• The Rhode Island FFA Association,
are streamlined events, attended only by
with five chapters and 82 members, is
delegates and award winners. In 1942, just
chartered—FFA is in all 48 states, plus then
217 people attend the convention.
Territory of Hawaii and Puerto Rico.
1944
1952
• The Future Farmers of America Foundation
• The FFA Code of Ethics is adopted.
is formed in Washington, D.C., to raise
• First issue of The National Future Farmer
money for FFA programs and activities.
magazine is published.
• 138,548 FFA members serve in the Armed
Services in World War II. 1953
• The first National FFA Agriculture • The U.S. Post Office Department issues a
Proficiency Award is presented for special 3-cent postage stamp—the cost
agricultural mechanics. of mailing a first-class letter then—to
celebrate the 25th anniversary of FFA. The
1946
first stamps are released in Kansas City,
• Attendance at the National FFA “Victory
Mo., during the National FFA Convention.
Convention” is 12,500. Those in attendance
• President Dwight D. Eisenhower speaks at
honor the 260,450 FFA members who
the National FFA Convention — the first
served and the 7,188 who paid the
U.S. president to do so — and receives an
supreme sacrifice, losing their lives in the
Honorary American Farmer Degree.
war.
• FFA membership reaches 363,369
1947 members.
• The first National FFA Band performs at
1955
the National FFA Convention.
• Photo of American Star Farmer Joe Moore
• National FFA Officers go on the first
is on the cover of Time magazine.
Goodwill Tour, visiting business and
industrial firms and organizations. 1957
• Former President Harry S. Truman speaks
during the National FFA Convention.

20
1958 1970

history
ffa
• The National Foundation for Infantile • New York’s Anita Decker and New
Paralysis presents NFA with a Certificate of Jersey’s Patricia Krowicki become the
Appreciation. first two female delegates to the national
convention.
1959
• First National FFA Center is dedicated in 1971
Alexandria, Va., on land that was once part • The National FFA Alumni Association is
of George Washington’s estate. An FFA established.
camp had been located here earlier. • The Building Our American Communities
• FFA holds its first National Leadership (BOAC) program begins.
Training Conference for state officers in
1973
Washington, D.C.
• FFA Official Dress standards are created.
1964 • National FFA Secretary Fred McClure from
• FFA sells its one-millionth FFA jacket. Texas is the first African-American elected
to a national FFA office.
1965
• NFA merges with FFA, increasing FFA 1974
membership by more than 50,000. • President Gerald Ford speaks at the
• Delegates vote to increase FFA National FFA Convention. The speech is
membership dues from 10 cents to 50 carried live on network television.
cents, allowing all members to receive the
1975
official FFA magazine, The National Future
• Food for America program launches.
Farmer.
• Jimmy Carter, former Georgia governor
1966 and a former member of the Plains (Ga.)
• First FFA National Agricultural Career FFA Chapter, speaks at the National
Show (now called expo) is held at the FFA Convention. Carter was elected U.S.
National FFA Convention to highlight president the following year.
educational and career opportunities in • First FFA Student Handbook is published.
agriculture.
1976
1967 • Julie Smiley from Washington is elected
• Elmer J. Johnson helps develop the FFA national FFA vice president and is the first
archives at the National FFA Center. female to hold a national FFA office.
• Alaska becomes the last of the 50 states to
1968
obtain a national charter.
• Presidential candidate Richard M. Nixon
speaks at the National FFA Convention. 1978
Nixon is elected U.S. president the • President Jimmy Carter speaks at the 51st
following month. National FFA Convention again, this time
as a U.S. president.
1969 • The commemorative marker noting the
• FFA opens membership to females,
site of the organization’s founding is
making it possible for them to hold office
unveiled in Kansas City, Mo.
and participate in competitive events at
regional and national levels. 1979
• Ken Dunagan from Arizona is named the • Christe Peterson from Wisconsin wins the
first American Star in Agribusiness. first Extemporaneous Public Speaking
• The Washington Conference (now Event.
Washington Leadership Conference —
1980
WLC) begins.
• The National FFA Foundation raises $1
• The delegate body of the National FFA
million in one year for the first time.
Convention establishes alumni class of
membership as part of the constitution.

21
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

1982 1994
• Jan Eberly from California becomes the • Corey Flournoy from Illinois is the first
first female national FFA president. African-American to be elected national
FFA president; he is also the first urban
1983 student leader.
• The Ag Ed Network, the organization’s
computerized information service, 1996
launches. • H.O. Sargent Award is reinstated,
history

promoting diversity among chapters.

1984
ffa

• FFA announces its decision to move the

• The first FFA TV public service
National FFA Center from Alexandria, Va.,
announcements air.
to Indianapolis.
1986 • FFA announces its decision to move the
• The first Agriscience Teacher of the Year National FFA Convention from Kansas City,
Award is presented to Steven McKay from Mo., to Louisville, Ky., in 1999.
Boonville, Calif. • The official website for FFA, FFA.org,
debuts.
1987
• The first national television satellite 1997
broadcast of the National FFA Convention • The first Agri-Entrepreneurship Award is
airs. presented.
• Vice President George H.W. Bush speaks
1998
at the National FFA Convention. Bush is
• The National FFA Center in Indianapolis is
elected U.S. president the following year.
dedicated on July 20.
1988 • The Agricultural Education National
• The Future Farmers of America changes its Headquarters is dedicated in Alexandria, Va.
name to the National FFA Organization to • The National FFA Convention is held in
reflect the growing diversity in agriculture. Kansas City, Mo., for the last time.
• Seventh and eighth grade students are • Jose Santiago from Puerto Rico is elected
permitted to become FFA members. national FFA vice president. He is the first
• The Agriscience Student Recognition member from Puerto Rico to serve as a
Program is introduced. national FFA officer.
• President Ronald Reagan speaks at the • Public Law 81-740 is revised through the
National FFA Convention via a prerecorded 105th Congress and replaced by Public
message. Law 105-225 on Aug. 12.

1989 1999
• 
The National Future Farmer magazine • The National FFA Convention is held in
changes its name to FFA New Horizons. Louisville, Ky., for the first time with 46,918
in attendance.
1990 • Michael Van Winkle from Arkansas wins
• The Partners in Active Learning Support the first National Creed Speaking event.
(PALS) program launches.
• National convention delegates vote to raise 2000
the number of official voting delegates to • The National FFA Archives at Indiana
475 based on proportional representation. University-Purdue University Indianapolis
• Delegates vote “no” to a new FFA Creed (IUPUI) opens.
during the 63rd National FFA Convention. • Delegates at the National FFA Convention
approve the Discovery FFA Degree for
1991 middle school students.
• FFA chapters in the U.S. Virgin Islands
and Guam, along with five chapters in 2001
Micronesia, are chartered. • Steven Offer from Wisconsin is named the
first American Star in Agriscience.

22
• Nicholas Streff from South Dakota • FFA membership exceeds the half-million

history
ffa
is named the first American Star in mark with 500,823 members in 7,358
Agricultural Placement. chapters.
• FFA New Horizons adds online feature—
2002 FFAnewhorizons.org.
• The 75th National FFA Convention is
held in Louisville, Ky. To celebrate this 2008
special event, the time capsule from the • The FFA member networking site, FFA
50th National FFA Convention is opened. Nation (now defunct), launches.
Special guest Muhammad Ali is recognized • The FFA board of directors makes the
at Reflections to honor the growing decision to rotate the National FFA
diversity of the National FFA Organization. Convention between Louisville and
• Karlene Lindow from Wisconsin is named Indianapolis, beginning with Louisville in
American Star Farmer. Lindow is the first 2013.
female to receive this award.
2009
• Official Dress standards are revised.
• FFA celebrates 40 years of women in the
2003 organization.
• Javier Moreno from Puerto Rico is elected
2010
national president; he becomes the first
• Dr. Larry Case retires after 26 years as
person with a native language other than
national FFA advisor.
English and the first Puerto Rican elected
• FFA celebrates the 75th anniversary of the
to this office.
founding of NFA.
• “Only Blue Will Do!” launches. The
• Six college-age FFA members travel to
campaign focuses on restoring the official
Zambia for the FFA Global Outreach: Africa
FFA jacket colors to the true national
program.
blue and corn gold, as well as providing a
superior-fitting jacket. 2011
• “FFA Live!” launches on RFD-TV. • The National FFA Alumni Association
celebrates its 40th anniversary.
2004
• FFA celebrates Native Americans in FFA,
• The first live webcast of the National FFA
agriculture and agricultural education
Convention premieres on FFA.org.
during the 84th National FFA Convention.
2005 • Dr. Steve A. Brown is named national
• National FFA launches Seeds of Hope, advisor/board chair.
a fundraising campaign to rebuild Gulf
2012
Coast states’ agricultural education and
• Patrick Gottsch donates $1 million
FFA programs following Hurricane Katrina;
on behalf of RFD-TV to the National
$835,699 in donations is distributed to
FFA Organization, the single-largest
affected programs.
unrestricted donation in the organization’s
• The National FFA Foundation tops the $10
history.
million mark in raising money in one year
• National FFA Foundation receives a record
for FFA programs and services.
of more than $16.2 million in support of
2006 FFA.
• The 79th National FFA Convention is held • FFA members and supporters pack
in Indianapolis for the first time, with 1,005,048 meals during the national
54,589 in attendance. convention and expo’s FFA Rally to Fight
• The National FFA Foundation announces Hunger.
its first $1 million contribution from the • FFA celebrates Latinos/Hispanics in FFA,
Ford Motor Company. agriculture and agricultural education
during the national convention and expo.
2007
• The FFA Merchandise Center opens in
Indianapolis.

23
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

2013 2018
• Sherene Donaldson is named first female • The board of directors votes to rename
national FFA executive secretary. the National FFA Alumni Association to
• Ram Truck’s “So God Made a Farmer” National FFA Alumni and Supporters and
Super Bowl commercial exceeds 18 million change its bylaws to operational policies.
views on YouTube; company donates $1 The National FFA Alumni Council becomes
million to FFA. the National FFA Alumni and Supporters
history

• FFA Today Radio Show debuts on Advisory Committee.

SiriusXM’s RURAL RADIO channel. • Platinum sponsor John Deere
ffa

commemorates 75 years of partnership

2014 with FFA.
• FFA members earn a record 3,765
• FFA announces that the National FFA
American FFA Degrees.
Convention & Expo will stay in Indianapolis
• Five FFA jackets are donated to the
through 2031.
Smithsonian’s National Museum of
• The 91st National FFA Convention & Expo
American History.
in Indianapolis has a record attendance of
• The Give the Gift of Blue Program begins.
69,944 members, advisors, supporters and
2015 guests.
• FFA announces the national convention and • The inaugural FFA Blue Room launches
expo to move to Indianapolis from 2016-24. at the national convention and expo,
• First Lady Michelle Obama gives video showcasing cutting-edge technology,
greetings to attendees at the national research and innovation in agriculture.
convention and expo. • President Donald Trump speaks at the
• Membership in the National FFA Alumni national convention and expo.
Association reaches 62,705 alumni.
2019
• The organization’s official website, FFA.
• Student membership hits an all-time high
org, is updated to include a new look, a
with 700,170 members in 8,612 chapters.
personalized dashboard, the resource My
• FFA celebrates 50 years of female
Journey, the FFA Resume Generator© and
membership in the organization.
the FFA Brand Center. The FFA emblem is
• H.R. 439, the National FFA Organization’s
also newly refreshed to modernize the FFA
Federal Charter Amendments Act (also
brand.
known as Public Law 116-7) becomes law.
2016 • Dr. Steve Brown retires as National FFA
• National FFA Alumni membership jumps to advisor and National FFA Board of Directors
225,891 members, up from 62,705 in 2015. Chair.
• FFA, Discovery Education and AgCareers.com • Washington Leadership Conference
partner to create AgExplorer, a career celebrates its 50th anniversary.
website to help students explore unique • The National FFA Delegates amend and
careers in agriculture. the National FFA Board of Directors ratifies
the National FFA Constitution and Bylaws.
2017 • The National Council for Agricultural
• Convention delegate recommendations Education names Dr. James Woodard the
to alter Official Dress and the opening board of directors chair and National FFA
ceremony get approval from the National advisor
FFA Board of Directors. • The National FFA Board of Directors names
• Breanna Holbert from California is the first Cheryl Zimmerman executive secretary of
African-American female to be elected the National FFA.
national FFA president. • The National FFA Foundation celebrates its
• Alumni membership hits an all-time high 75th anniversary.
with 344,239 members in 2,051 chapters.

24
National FFA Organization

history
ffa
Membership by States
Year Order 2017-18 2018-19 2017-18 2018-19
Assoc. Name Chartered Chartered Chapters Chapters Members Members
ALABAMA 1929 36 260 271 14,698 15,280
ALASKA 1976 51 15 15 260 404
ARIZONA 1929 33 81 82 10,075 10,082
ARKANSAS 1928 2 220 212 13,479 14,303
CALIFORNIA 1928 4 344 345 89,499 92,657
COLORADO 1929 15 115 118 6,756 7,025
CONNECTICUT 1930 40 20 21 3,315 3,490
DELAWARE 1930 37 39 37 4,066 3,944
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA 0 1 - 0
FLORIDA 1929 31 384 377 17,490 20,660
GEORGIA 1929 10 340 354 42,076 43,563
HAWAII 1929 13 22 23 413 338
IDAHO 1929 17 96 92 5,133 5,209
ILLINOIS 1929 21 351 347 18,395 19,099
INDIANA 1929 19 209 212 12,203 12,505
IOWA 1929 22 238 243 15,478 15,633
KANSAS 1929 16 207 210 9,612 9,860
KENTUCKY 1930 39 153 157 13,796 13,779
LOUISIANA 1930 44 198 199 10,343 11,081
MAINE 1930 41 18 16 546 387
MARYLAND 1929 9 49 51 2,277 2,205
MASSACHUSETTS 1931 47 16 16 2,115 2,057
MICHIGAN 1929 29 122 124 8,303 8,626
MINNESOTA 1930 42 196 190 10,656 10,574
MISSISSIPPI 1934 49 125 117 3,062 3,212
MISSOURI 1929 28 354 348 25,049 25,288
MONTANA 1930 38 93 96 5,212 5,075
NEBRASKA 1928 6 190 192 8,616 9,386
NEVADA 1929 11 28 29 2,523 3,062
NEW HAMPSHIRE 1931 46 13 12 414 411
NEW JERSEY 1928 3 37 38 2,230 2,360
NEW MEXICO 1929 25 82 82 3,699 3,673
NEW YORK 1929 24 125 128 4,315 6,841
NORTH CAROLINA 1929 18 339 323 19,328 20,484
NORTH DAKOTA 1929 30 87 88 5,743 6,146
OHIO 1929 14 335 330 25,237 25,454
OKLAHOMA 1928 7 362 365 26,597 26,785
OREGON 1929 25 108 111 6,784 7,344
PENNSYLVANIA 1929 26 150 153 12,926 12,804
PUERTO RICO 1932 48 136 104 2,369 3,446
RHODE ISLAND 1950 50 4 4 110 166
SOUTH CAROLINA 1928 5 110 114 7,422 8,252
SOUTH DAKOTA 1929 32 91 94 4,551 4,669
TENNESSEE 1929 27 210 215 13,976 13,891
TEXAS 1929 34 1,069 1,068 123,298 130,073
UTAH 1929 20 89 90 6,697 6,982
VERMONT 1931 45 16 17 328 303
VIRGIN ISLANDS 1991 53 7 8 20 60
VIRGINIA 1928 1 212 209 8,284 8,961
WASHINGTON 1930 43 177 169 10,632 11,672
WEST VIRGINIA 1929 12 79 86 5,361 6,469
WISCONSIN 1929 23 254 253 21,186 20,826
WYOMING 1929 8 55 55 3,036 3,314
Totals 8,630 8,611 669,989 700,170

25
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

Emblem

The plow signifies labor and tillage of the soil,

the backbone of agriculture and the historic
foundation of our country’s strength.

The eagle is a national symbol that serves as

The national FFA emblem, consisting of five
a reminder of our freedom and ability to
symbols, is representative of the history, goals
explore new horizons for the future of
and future of the organization. As a whole,
traditions

agriculture.
the emblem covers the broad spectrum of
FFA and agriculture. Each element within the
ffa

emblem has unique significance.

The owl, long recognized for its wisdom,

symbolizes the knowledge required to be
successful in the industry of agriculture.

The cross section of the ear of corn provides

the foundation of the emblem, just as corn
has historically served as the foundation crop
of American agriculture. It is also a symbol of
unity, as corn is grown in every state of the
nation.
The words Agricultural Education and FFA
are emblazoned in the center to signify the
combination of learning and leadership
necessary for progressive agriculture.

The emblem and the letters “FFA” are

protected by trademark registration in the
The rising sun signifies progress and holds a
U.S. Patent Office and by Public Law 105-225,
promise that tomorrow will bring a new day,
105th Congress.
glowing with opportunity.

26
Motto
for I know the joys and discomforts of
agricultural life and hold an inborn fondness
for those associations which, even in hours of
The FFA motto gives members 12 short words discouragement, I cannot deny.
to live by as they discover the opportunities
available in the organization: I believe in leadership from ourselves and
Learning to Do respect from others. I believe in my own
Doing to Learn ability to work efficiently and think clearly,
Earning to Live with such knowledge and skill as I can
Living to Serve secure, and in the ability of progressive
agriculturists to serve our own and the public

FFA Creed interest in producing and marketing the

product of our toil.

traditions
ffa
The FFA Creed was written by E. M. Tiffany
I believe in less dependence on begging
and adopted at the 3rd National FFA
and more power in bargaining; in the life
Convention. It was revised at the 38th
abundant and enough honest wealth to
and 63rd conventions. It is recited by new
help make it so—for others as well as myself;
members to reflect their growing belief in
in less need for charity and more of it when
agriculture and agricultural education.
needed; in being happy myself and playing
square with those whose happiness depends
I believe in the future of agriculture, with
upon me.
a faith born not of words but of deeds—
achievements won by the present and past
I believe that American agriculture can and
generations of agriculturists; in the promise
will hold true to the best traditions of our
of better days through better ways, even as
national life and that I can exert an influence
the better things we now enjoy have come to
in my home and community which will stand
us from the struggles of former years.
solid for my part in that inspiring task.

I believe that to live and work on a good

farm, or to be engaged in other agricultural
pursuits, is pleasant as well as challenging;

27
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

FFA Official Dress

The uniform worn by FFA members at
local, state and national functions is called
Official Dress. It provides identity and gives
a distinctive and recognizable image to the
organization and its members. Official Dress
has been worn with pride by millions of FFA
members since 1933.

Official Dress Guidelines

Colors Official Dress for an FFA member includes:
• An official FFA jacket zipped to the top.
As the blue field of our nation’s flag and • Black slacks and black socks/nylons or
the golden fields of ripened corn unify our black skirt and black nylons.
country, the FFA colors of national blue and • White collared blouse or white collared
corn gold give unity to the organization. All shirt.
• Official FFA tie or official FFA scarf.
traditions

FFA functions and paraphernalia should

proudly display the colors. • Black dress shoes with closed heel
and toe.
ffa

For printing specifications on the official FFA

colors, see page 60. Note: Official garb of recognized religions
may be worn with Official Dress. Also,
appropriate personal protective equipment
Salute may be used with Official Dress.

The Pledge of Allegiance is the official salute

of the FFA organization. To properly conduct
the salute, face the United States flag, place
the right hand over the left part of the chest,
and holding it there, repeat the following
pledge:

“I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the

United States of America and to the
Republic for which it stands, one Nation
under God, indivisible, with liberty and
justice for all.”

Note: Repeat the pledge as it is punctuated.

There is no comma or pause following the
word “nation.”

The pledge should always be used in the

official closing ceremony for meetings and
at other FFA gatherings. At the conclusion of
the pledge, the hand should be dropped to
the side, and the members should again face The official FFA jacket was established
the president’s station. by the delegates at the 1933 National
FFA Convention. Official Dress standards were
created by the delegates at the 1973 national
convention and most recently revised by
the delegates at the 2016 National FFA
Convention & Expo.

28
Proper Use of the FFA Jacket • Members should refrain from use of
The blue corduroy jacket is the most tobacco and alcohol when underage and
recognizable symbol of the organization. As at all times when representing FFA. In
a member, it is one of your responsibilities to addition, members should exhibit their
ensure its proper use. Specific guidelines are leadership qualities when they encounter
outlined below. substances including tobacco and alcohol
• The jacket is to be worn only by members. and serve to discourage others from
• The jacket should be kept clean and neat. inappropriate behavior.
• The back of the jacket should have only • All chapter degree, officer and award
a large official FFA emblem, the name medals should be worn beneath the name
of the state association and the name of on the right side of the jacket, with the
the local chapter, region, district or area. exception of a single State FFA Degree
The front of the jacket should have only a charm or American FFA Degree key.

traditions
ffa
small official FFA emblem, the name of the These should be worn above the name or
individual, one office or honor and the year attached to a standard degree chain.
of that office or honor. No more than three medals should be
• The jacket should be worn on official worn on the jacket. These medals, worn
occasions with the zipper fastened to the in no specific order, should represent
top. The collar should be turned down and 1.) the highest degree earned, 2.) the
the cuffs buttoned. highest office held and 3.) the highest
• The jacket should be worn by members award earned by the member.
and officers on all official FFA occasions, as
well as other occasions where the chapter
or state association is represented. It may
Give the Gift of
be worn to school and other appropriate Blue Program
places.
• The jacket should only be worn to places The Give the Gift of Blue Program was
that are appropriate for members to visit. established as a way to provide official blue
• School letters and insignia of other corduroy jackets to FFA members who may
organizations should not be attached to or not otherwise be able to afford them. FFA
worn on the jacket. members who want to apply for a jacket
• When the jacket becomes faded and worn, can go to FFA.org/giveblue. Members will
it should be discarded or the emblems and be required to write a short essay on what
lettering removed. owning an FFA jacket would mean to them
• The emblems and lettering should be and provide a list of their FFA, community
removed if the jacket is given or sold to a and school activities. FFA advisor approval
nonmember. is required. Members will receive an email
• A member should act professionally when confirmation of their application and be
wearing the official FFA jacket. placed in a queue to receive a jacket as funds
become available.

FFA advisors and members can

also nominate a member to
be awarded a jacket. A similar
application process, including
advisor approval, is required.

The program is funded by

individual donations and
corporate sponsors. Donations are
tax deductible and can be made
at FFA.org/giveblue.

29
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

Responsibilities
  7. Demonstrate good sportsmanship by
being modest in winning and generous
of Members in defeat.
  8. Make myself aware of FFA programs and
For a chapter to operate effectively, each activities and be an active participant.
member must play an active role. FFA is truly   9. Conduct and value a supervised
an organization of, by and for its members. agricultural experience program.
Members decide and direct the activities 10. Strive to establish and enhance my skills
of their own chapter. They hold positions through agricultural education in order to
of leadership and conduct all activities. The enter a successful career.
success or failure of chapter activities and 11. Appreciate and promote diversity in our
programs rests with the membership. organization.

Each member is charged with the Adopted by the delegates at the 1952 National
responsibility of upholding the ideals and FFA Convention. The Code of Ethics was
principles of the organization, as well as revised by the delegates at the 1995 National
participating in all chapter activities. FFA Convention.
traditions

Kinds of FFA
Membership
ffa

To be eligible for active membership in a

chartered FFA chapter, a student must be
enrolled in a secondary agricultural education
program.

State associations may consider “secondary

agricultural education programs” to be

FFA Code of Ethics

grades 7-12.

To become an active member and retain

FFA members conduct themselves at all membership, a student must:
times to be a credit to their organization, 1. While in school, be enrolled in at least
chapter, school, community and family. As an one agricultural education course during
FFA member, I pledge to: the school year and/or follow a planned
course of study. Either course must include
  1. Develop my potential for premier a supervised agricultural experience
leadership, personal growth and career program, the objective of which is
success. preparation for a career in agriculture.
  2. Make a positive difference in the lives of 2. Show an interest in the affairs of the
others. organization by attending meetings,
  3. Dress neatly and appropriately for the striving for degrees of membership and
occasion. (See page 29 for proper use of participating in other organized activities
Official Dress.) of the chapter.
  4. Respect the rights of others and their 3. Pay all current state and national dues by
property. the date determined by the chapter.
  5. Be courteous, honest and fair with others. 4. Display conduct consistent with the
  6. Communicate in an appropriate, ideals and purposes of the National FFA
purposeful and positive manner. Organization.

30
 FFA Degrees
FFA is structured into a degree program
that rewards active FFA members for
progress in all phases of leadership, skills and
occupational development. The Discovery
FFA Degree, the Greenhand FFA Degree and
the Chapter FFA Degree are awarded at the
chapter level. State associations award top
members with the State FFA Degree. The
highest degree, the American FFA Degree, is
A member may retain active membership
conferred upon an elite group of members
until Nov. 30 following his or her fourth

traditions
ffa
at the national level. For the most up-to-date
National FFA Convention & Expo after
degree requirements, visit FFA.org.
graduation from high school. For more
information on active membership, read the
National Constitution and Bylaws, Article V,
Section B on page 76.

Annual national dues are $7 for active

members, of which $2 is used to provide
a year’s subscription to FFA New Horizons
magazine. State associations and local
chapters may also collect dues. Discovery FFA Degree
To be eligible to receive the Discovery FFA
FFA clothing, jewelry, chapter supplies, Degree from a chapter, a member must meet
plaques, trophies, award pins, agricultural the following minimum requirements:
education resources, teaching tools and gift 1. Be enrolled in an agriculture class for at
items can be ordered on ShopFFA.org. Profits least a portion of the school year while in
earned from the sale of official items help grades 7-8.
finance National FFA. 2. Have become a dues-paying member of
FFA at local, state and national levels.
In addition to active membership, individuals 3. Participate in at least one local FFA
can become members in two other ways— chapter activity outside of scheduled class
honorary and alumni and supporters. time.
Honorary membership is conferred upon 4. Have knowledge of agriculturally related
those individuals who have rendered career, ownership and entrepreneurial
outstanding service to FFA and agricultural opportunities.
education. The Honorary Chapter, State and 5. Be familiar with the local FFA chapter’s
American FFA Degrees are limited at each Program of Activities.
level by a majority vote at regular meetings 6. Submit written application for the degree.
or conventions. Alumni and supporters
membership is open to former active
members and other FFA supporters. For more
information on alumni membership, visit
FFA.org/alumni.

31
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

3. Have participated in the planning and

conducting of at least three official
functions in the chapter’s Program of
Activities.
4. A student after entering agricultural
education must have:
a. Earned and productively invested
at least $150 by the member’s own
Greenhand FFA Degree efforts; or worked at least 45 hours in
To be eligible to receive the Greenhand FFA excess of scheduled class time; or a
Degree from the chapter, a member must combination thereof; and
meet the following minimum qualifications: b. Developed plans for continued growth
1. Be enrolled in agricultural education and and improvement in a supervised
have satisfactory plans for a supervised agricultural experience program.
agricultural experience program. 5. Have effectively led a group discussion
2. Learn and explain the FFA Creed, motto, for 15 minutes.
salute and FFA mission statement. 6. Have demonstrated five procedures of
3. Describe and explain the meaning of the parliamentary law.
traditions

FFA emblem and colors. 7. Show progress toward individual

4. Demonstrate a knowledge of the FFA Code achievement in the FFA award programs.
of Ethics and the proper use of the FFA 8. Have a satisfactory scholastic record.
ffa

jacket. 9. Have participated in at least 10 hours

5. Demonstrate a knowledge of the history of of community service activities. These
the organization, the chapter constitution hours are in addition to and cannot be
and bylaws and the chapter Program of duplicated as paid or unpaid supervised
Activities. agricultural experience hours.
6. Personally own or have access to the 10. Submit a written application for the
Official FFA Manual and the Official FFA Chapter FFA Degree.
Student Handbook.
7. Submit written application for the Other requirements may be established by
Greenhand FFA Degree. the chapter and/or the state FFA association.

Chapter FFA Degree State FFA Degree

To be eligible to receive the Chapter FFA To be eligible to receive the State FFA Degree
Degree from the chapter, a member must from the state association, a member must
meet the following minimum qualifications: meet the following minimum qualifications:
1. Must have received the Greenhand FFA 1. Have received the Chapter FFA Degree.
Degree. 2. Have been an active FFA member for at
2. Must have satisfactorily completed least two years (24 months) at the time of
the equivalent of at least 180 hours receiving the State FFA Degree.
of systematic school instruction in 3. While in school, have completed the
agricultural education at or above the equivalent of at least two years (360
ninth grade level, have in operation hours) of systematic school instruction
an approved supervised agricultural in agricultural education at or above
experience program and be enrolled in an the ninth grade level, which includes
agriculture course. a supervised agricultural experience
program.

32
4. A student after entering agricultural The percentage of the total state
education must have: membership that may receive the State FFA
a. Earned and productively invested at Degree and other requirements may be
least $1,000; or established by the state FFA association.
b. Worked at least 300 hours in excess of
scheduled class time; or
c. A combination thereof, in a supervised
agricultural experience program.
5. Demonstrate leadership ability by:
a. Performing 10 procedures of
parliamentary law.
b. Giving a six-minute speech on a topic
relating to agriculture or FFA.

traditions
ffa
c. Serving as an officer, committee
chairperson or participating member of
a chapter committee.
6. Have a satisfactory scholastic record
American FFA Degree
as certified by the local agricultural
To be eligible to receive the American FFA
education instructor and the principal or
Degree from the National FFA Organization,
superintendent.
the member must meet the following
7. Have participated in the planning and
minimum qualifications:
completion of the chapter’s Program of
1. Have received the State FFA Degree, have
Activities.
been an active member for the past three
8. Have participated in at least five different
years (36 months) and have a record of
FFA activities above the chapter level.
satisfactory participation in activities on
9. Have participated in at least 25 hours of
the chapter and state levels.
community service, within at least two
2. Have satisfactorily completed the
different community service activities.
equivalent of at least three years (540
These hours are in addition to and cannot
hours) of systematic secondary school
be duplicated as paid or unpaid supervised
instruction in an agricultural education
agricultural experience hours.

Procedure for Equating Hours Worked With Dollars Earned and

Productively Invested for the American FFA Degree

Hours* Formula Actual Dollars Earned Minimum Standard

Worked Factor Test and Productively Invested Equivalency Factor
2,250 X 3.56 8,010.00 + 1,990.00 = 10,000
2,103 X 3.56 7,486.68 + 2,513.32 = 10,000
1,952 X 3.56 6,949.12 + 3,050.88 = 10,000
1,802 X 3.56 6,415.12 + 3,584.88 = 10,000
1,652 X 3.56 5,881.12 + 4,118.88 = 10,000
1,502 X 3.56 5,347.12 + 4,652.88 = 10,000
1,352 X 3.56 4,813.12 + 5,186.88 = 10,000
1,202 X 3.56 4,279.12 + 5,720.88 = 10,000
1,052 X 3.56 3,745.12 + 6,254.88 = 10,000
901 X 3.56 3,207.56 + 6,792.44 = 10,000
751 X 3.56 2,673.56 + 7,326.44 = 10,000
601 X 3.56 2,139.56 + 7,860.44 = 10,000
451 X 3.56 1,605.56 + 8,394.44 = 10,000
OR
   0 10,000.00

*These hours cannot contribute income that is being used as productively invested income.

33
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

program, or have completed at least the Honorary American Degree –

equivalent of 360 hours of systematic Teacher
secondary school instruction in The purpose of the Honorary American
agricultural education and one full year of Degree Teacher award is to recognize
enrollment in a postsecondary agricultural agricultural education instructors/FFA
program, or have completed the program advisors who have demonstrated total
of agricultural education offered in the program quality by using those factors that
secondary school last attended. contribute to successful local programs with
3. Have graduated from high school at least a national impact. Nominees must have
12 months prior to the national convention taught for a minimum of 10 years and have
at which the degree is to be granted. at least 85 percent FFA membership in their
4. Have in operation and have maintained agricultural education program. Recipients in
records to substantiate an outstanding this category are selected on the basis of their
supervised agricultural experience contributions in the following seven areas:
program, through which the member has classroom/laboratory instruction; experiential
exhibited comprehensive planning and learning of students (SAE); National FFA
managerial and financial expertise. Organization – awards and recognition;
5. A student after entering agricultural building partnerships; agricultural education
traditions

education must have: program marketing; agricultural education

a. Earned at least $10,000 and program development and evaluation; and
productively invested at least $7,500; or professional development of agricultural
ffa

b. Earned and productively invested education teachers. Applications should be

$2,000 and worked 2,250 hours in submitted online by June 15.
excess of scheduled class time. Any
combination of hours, times a factor Honorary American FFA Degree
of 3.56, plus actual dollars earned The purpose of the Honorary American
and productively invested must be FFA Degree program is to recognize
equal to or greater than the number individuals who have rendered outstanding
10,000. Hours used for the purpose service to agricultural education and FFA.
of producing earnings reported as Individuals nominated must have provided
productively invested income shall exceptional service to agriculture, agricultural
not be duplicated as hours of credit to education and/or FFA on a national level.
meet the minimum requirements for Those nominated from a state must have
the degree. the approval of the state FFA advisor.
6. Have a record of outstanding leadership Nominations may also be made by members
abilities and community involvement and of the National FFA Board of Directors and
have achieved a high school scholastic officers, National FFA Organization, and
record of “C” or better as certified by the National FFA Foundation division directors.
principal or superintendent.
7. Have participated in at least 50 hours of The Honorary American FFA Degree is the
community service, within at least three highest honorary degree presented by the
different community service activities. National FFA Organization at the annual
These hours are in addition to and cannot national convention and expo. Applications
be duplicated as paid or unpaid supervised should be submitted online by June 15.
agricultural experience hours.
8. Applicants must complete and submit
the current version of the American FFA
Degree application authorized by the
National FFA Organization.

34
Official FFA Opening and Closing
Ceremonies Ceremonies
Official FFA ceremonies are a source of pride, Opening the Meeting
identity and tradition among FFA members When the time set for opening the meeting
and chapters. Ceremonies emphasize the arrives, the president, after quietly arranging
purpose of meetings, the duties of officers for any necessary officer substitutions, rises,
and the significance of recognition given to raps for attention, secures order and proceeds
individuals. as indicated below. The other officers rise as
called upon by the vice president and remain
All official FFA ceremonies are to be standing until seated by the president.
memorized, rehearsed and conducted with
pride and dignity. A “walk-through” in the President: “The __________ (meeting room,
room where the meeting, banquet or special banquet hall, etc.) will come to order. We are
function is to be held will ensure a smooth now holding a meeting of the __________
performance if proper physical arrangements (chapter name, district name, etc.) FFA
are complete and all parties know their __________ (chapter, district, etc.) Mr./Mdm. Vice
responsibilities and speaking assignments. President, are all officers at their stations?”
Never forget that you and your chapter are
on display. Your performance should reflect Vice President: (Rising and facing the
sincerity and professionalism. president) “I shall call the roll of officers,
determine if they are at their stations and
Use correct terminology according to gender. report back to you, Mr./Mdm. President.”

ceremonies
ffa
For example, use “madam president” in
addressing a female president.

Printable versions of the FFA ceremonies

featured in this manual are available on
FFA.org/chapterresources.

35
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

Vice President: (Calling roll of officers) “The secretaries wherever corn is grown and FFA
sentinel.” members meet.”

Sentinel: “Stationed by the door.” Vice President: “The advisor.”

Vice President: “Your duties there?” Advisor: “Here by the owl.”

Sentinel: “Through this door pass many Vice President: “Why stationed by the owl?”
friends of the FFA. It is my duty to see that
the door is open to our friends at all times Advisor: “The owl is a time-honored emblem
and that they are welcome. I care for the of knowledge and wisdom. Being older than
meeting room and paraphernalia. I strive to the rest of you, I am asked to advise you
keep the room comfortable and assist the from time to time, as the need arises. I hope
president in maintaining order.” that my advice will always be based on true
knowledge and ripened with wisdom.
Vice President: “The reporter.”
“Mr./Mdm. Vice President, why do you keep a
Reporter: “The reporter is stationed by the plow at your station?”
flag.”
Vice President: “The plow is the symbol
Vice President: “Why by the flag?” of labor and tillage of the soil. Without
labor, neither knowledge nor wisdom can
Reporter: “As the flag covers the United accomplish much. My duties require me to
States of America, so I strive to inform the assist at all times in directing the work of
people in order that every man, woman and our organization. I preside over meetings in
child may know that the FFA is a national the absence of our president, whose place is
organization that reaches from the state of beneath the rising sun.”
Alaska to the Virgin Islands and from the
state of Maine to Hawaii.” Advisor: “Why is the president so stationed?”
ceremonies

Vice President: “The treasurer.” Vice President: “The rising sun is the token
of a new era in agriculture. If we will follow
Treasurer: “Stationed at the emblem of the leadership of our president, we shall be
ffa

Washington.” led out of the darkness of selfishness and

into the glorious sunlight of brotherhood and
Vice President: “Your duties there?” cooperation. Mr./Mdm. President, all officers
are at their stations.”
Treasurer: “I keep a record of receipts and
disbursements just as Washington kept his President: (Rises and faces the vice
farm accounts—carefully and accurately. I president) “Thank you, Mr./Mdm. Vice
encourage thrift among the members and President.” (All take seats at tap of gavel.)
strive to build up our financial standing “The secretary will call the roll of members.”
through savings and investments. George
Washington was better able to serve Secretary: “There are __________ members and
his country because he was financially __________ guests present, Mr./Mdm. President.”
independent.”
President: “Thank you. FFA members, why
Vice President: “The secretary.” are we here?” (All members stand at three
taps of gavel.)
Secretary: “Stationed by the ear of corn.”
All members in unison: “To practice
Vice President: “Your duties there?” brotherhood, honor agricultural opportunities
and responsibilities and
Secretary: “I keep an accurate record of all
meetings and correspond with other

36
develop those qualities of leadership which under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice
an FFA member should possess.” (All are for all.”
seated at one tap of gavel.)
President: “I now declare this meeting
President: “May we accomplish our purposes. adjourned.” (Tap once with gavel and the
I now declare this meeting of the __________ meeting is adjourned.)
(chapter name, district name, etc.) FFA
__________ (chapter, district, etc.) duly open Examples of opening and closing ceremonies,
for the transaction of business, or attention which outline responsibilities for a chapter’s
to any matters which may properly be historian and parliamentarian officers, are
presented.” available at FFA.org/ffaresources/chapter/
pages/chaptermeetings.aspx.
Note: The secretary may call the complete
roll if necessary and report on that basis.
However, it is a time-consuming procedure
Discovery FFA
for a local chapter because all members’ Degree Ceremony
names are in the secretary’s book and
can be quickly consulted and checked Secretary: “Mr./Mdm. President, I have
beforehand. the applications for __________ (number)
students enrolled in (agricultural education,
Closing the Meeting agriscience, agribusiness, horticulture, etc.)
When the business at hand has been who are candidates for the Discovery FFA
disposed of or an appointed time for closing Degree.”
has arrived, the procedure is as indicated
below.

ceremonies
ffa
President: “Our constitution outlines
minimum qualifications for this degree. We
President: “Mr./Mdm. Secretary, do you have shall now determine if these candidates
a record of any further business which should qualify. Mr./Mdm. Advisor, have all candidates
now be transacted?” paid full FFA dues at local, state and national
levels?”
Secretary: (Rises, replies and is seated.) “I
have none, Mr./Mdm. President.” Advisor: “They have.”

President: “Does any member know of any President: “Have they each participated
new or unfinished business which should in at least one chapter activity outside of
properly come before this meeting? (If no scheduled class time?”
answer, proceed as follows.)
Advisor: “They have.”
“We are about to adjourn this meeting of the
__________ (chapter name, district name, etc.) President: “Have these candidates met all
FFA __________ (chapter, district, etc.). As we other minimum qualifications of Article 6,
mingle with others, let us be diligent in labor, Section B of the national constitution?”
just in our dealings, courteous to everyone
and, above all, honest and fair in the game of Advisor: “They have.”
life. Fellow members and guests, join me in a
salute to our flag.” President: “The secretary will please read the
names of the successful candidates.”
(Tap three times with gavel to call members
to stand, face the flag at the reporter’s (Secretary reads the list of candidate names)
station and, with their right hands over their
hearts, repeat the following salute.) President: “Will the officers take their places
beside me?
All in unison: “I pledge allegiance to the Flag
of the United States of America and to the (After officers are stationed by the president.)
Republic for which it stands, one Nation “Will the candidates please rise? Candidates,

37
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

Greenhand FFA
you are about to receive the Discovery
FFA Degree in a national organization of
members who will become the leaders in the Degree Ceremony
broad industry of agriculture. Will you strive
to continue development of your personal Secretary: “Mr./Mdm. President, I have
and professional skills through participation the applications for __________ (number)
in the FFA? If so, answer ‘We will’.” students enrolled in (agricultural education,
agriscience, agribusiness, horticulture, etc.)
ceremonies

Candidates: “We will.” who are candidates for the Greenhand FFA
Degree.”
Secretary: “I am proud to add these names
ffa

to the list of our membership embarking on President: “Our constitution outlines

a journey of personal growth and premier minimum qualifications for this degree. We
leadership development which will lead shall now determine if these candidates
them to career success in the broad field of qualify. Mr./Mdm. Advisor, do all candidates
agriculture.” have satisfactory plans for programs of
supervised agricultural experience?”
Advisor: “Today, you take the first step in an
exciting journey which can provide you with Advisor: “They have.” (The advisor should
experiences which will set a foundation for give a brief summary statement regarding
success that will carry throughout your life. I enrollment, production agriculture,
challenge you to grasp all the opportunities ornamental horticulture, agribusiness,
offered and wish you every success in that etc., including career plans and supervised
journey.” agricultural experience programs.
For example, number of students in
President: “Fellow officers, join me in production agriculture, number of students
welcoming these recipients of the Discovery in horticulture, number of students in
FFA Degree.” (President leads applause and agribusiness.)
welcomes each candidate with a handshake.
Other officers shake hands with the newly President: “Have these candidates met all
installed degree recipients as well.) other minimum qualifications of Article 6,
Section C of the national constitution?”

38
Advisor: “They have.” Secretary: “The FFA is a national organization
of young men and women preparing for
President: “The secretary will please read the careers in agriculture. I am proud to add your
names of the successful candidates.” name to the roll of the __________ FFA Chapter,
__________ (State) Association and the National
(Secretary does so.) Organization.”

President: “Will the officers please take their Vice President: “Success in a career and in
places beside me? life is largely the result of a sound education
and a willingness to work. Without labor,
(After officers are stationed by President.) we accomplish little, and unless our labor
is directed by intelligent thinking, we
“Will the candidates please rise? Candidates, accomplish nothing.”
you are about to receive the Greenhand
FFA Degree in a national organization of Advisor: “The pin worn by Greenhands is
members who expect to enter a career in made of bronze. Because of its hardness and
the industry of agriculture. Will you strive to endurance, bronze has been used for ages
further develop your abilities through active by those who sought a better substitute for
participation in the FFA? If so, answer ‘We crude stone instruments. May those qualities
will’.” of hardness and endurance carry you far in
our organization.
Candidates: “We will.”
“Although you have done well and merit this
President: “The basic beliefs of FFA members recognition, let me remind you that there
are outlined in the FFA Creed, which will are heights yet to be attained. Just as there

ceremonies
ffa
be presented by __________ (officer, member, are metals more precious than bronze, there
greenhand, etc.).” are rarer and more precious laurels to be
won in our organization. The silver pin of the
(FFA Creed is presented.) Chapter FFA Degree and the golden charm of
the State FFA Degree await those who earn
President: “I hope that you will always carry them. In order to attain these higher degrees,
the spirit of the Creed in your hearts and the you must possess rare and golden qualities.
words in your memory.” You must be malleable, but never crushed;
ductile, but never drawn into anything base
Sentinel: “Career development is a life-long or dishonorable; glowing with enthusiasm,
process. Your activities in this organization but unaltered by the heat of conflict. It is my
will help you acquire the ability to cooperate sincere wish that some of you will eventually
with others for the benefit of all. A good be awarded the golden key of the American
attitude and a respect for the rights of others FFA Degree.
are essential for success in life.”
“Your future is before you. Through hard work
Reporter: “The vast agricultural complex and wise decisions, you can attain the highest
forms the foundation of our American place in our organization so eagerly sought
economy. You have chosen well by your by all worthy members.”
expression of interest in a future career in
this, our nation’s largest field of endeavor.” President: “The FFA organization practices
agricultural leadership, citizenship and
Treasurer: “By your enrollment in agricultural cooperation. If you develop your abilities, you
education, you have taken an important may become a leader in this organization.
step toward becoming a useful citizen We need you, and the country needs
in our democracy. May you, like George strong leadership. We now welcome you as
Washington, use your talents and training for Greenhands. The advisor will now present
the betterment of yourselves and your fellow each of you with the Greenhand pin.”
man.”

39
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

Chapter FFA Degree

10. Submit a written application for the
Chapter FFA Degree.”
Ceremony
(Other requirements may be established
Secretary: “Mr./Mdm. President, it is my by the chapter and/or the state FFA
privilege to announce that __________ (number) association.)
members are candidates for the Chapter FFA
Degree.” (Reads their names.) President: “Mr./Mdm. Advisor, have
all candidates met or exceeded these
President: “Our constitution sets up standards?”
minimum qualifications which must be met
before members advance to a higher degree. Advisor: “They have.”
The secretary will please read the section of
our constitution which outlines the standards President: “Will the candidates please rise,
for this degree.” and will the officers take their positions for
this ceremony?”
Secretary: (Reads Article 6, Section D.) “To be
eligible to receive the Chapter FFA Degree Sentinel: “Fellowship and brotherhood are
from the chapter, the member must meet desirable aspects of a full and satisfying life.
the following minimum qualifications: Your many friends in the FFA share with you
1. Must have received the Greenhand FFA the satisfaction of your achievement. May you
Degree. continue to advance in the FFA.”
2. Must have satisfactorily completed
the equivalent of at least 180 hours Reporter: “We enjoy many benefits through
of systematic school instruction in the FFA. It is important that all of you inform
agricultural education at or above the others about this organization so that its
ninth grade level, have in operation influence can be a contributing factor in their
an approved supervised agricultural lives. Let us work together to build a better
experience program and be enrolled in an America.”
ceremonies

agricultural education course.

3. Have participated in the planning and Treasurer: “FFA members learn the
conducting of at least three official importance of sound financial practices. The
skills you are developing in keeping records
ffa

functions in the chapter Program of

Activities. and accounts will be valuable assets to you
4. A student after entering agricultural throughout life. May you use this training
education must have: to support yourself, your family and worthy
a. Earned and productively invested at activities of your community.”
least $150 by the member’s own efforts;
or worked at least 45 hours in excess of Secretary: “You have earned the highest FFA
scheduled class time; or a combination degree a chapter can bestow on its members.
thereof; and As secretary, it is my pleasure to inscribe
b. Developed plans for continued growth your name in our permanent records. May
and improvement in a supervised you continue your individual growth and
agricultural experience program. development in our organization.”
5. Have effectively led a group discussion for
15 minutes. Vice President: “Planning and completing
6. Have demonstrated five procedures of a task brings a certain satisfaction that is
parliamentary law. the reward of the industrious individual. Our
7. Show progress toward individual forefathers worked hard to transform America
achievement in the FFA award programs. from a wilderness to a great nation. Your
8. Have a satisfactory scholastic record. attainment of this degree demonstrated your
9. Have participated in at least 10 hours willingness to work. You have done well and
of community service activities. These have taken a major step toward fulfilling your
hours are in addition to and cannot be goals in the FFA.”
duplicated as paid or unpaid SAE hours.

40
Advisor: “Those who succeed best in life, State Advisor: “I have, Mr./Mdm. President,
regardless of occupation, know the means and have found all candidates fully qualified.”
whereby the great problems may be solved.
Ignorance leads to neglect, waste, want and State President: “We will now proceed to
poverty, while wisdom leads to industry, raise these members to the State FFA Degree.
productivity and happiness. You have studied Will the candidates please rise?”
and learned in order to earn this degree.
Every worthwhile recognition carries with State Sentinel: “The State FFA Degree is the
it additional responsibilities. Your increased highest degree our state association can
leadership ability should be reflected by your bestow. Some of you will one day earn the
further involvement in the activities of our coveted golden key of the American FFA
chapter.” Degree. We urge you to maintain throughout
your adult lives the same enthusiasm and
President: “The pin symbolizing the Chapter dedication that you bring to this ceremony
FFA Degree is made of silver. Just as there today.”
are metals more precious than silver, there
are more precious laurels to be won in our State Reporter: “It is a great honor to be
organization. The golden charm of the nominated for the State FFA Degree. It is still
State FFA Degree and the golden key of the a greater honor to be selected for this degree
American FFA Degree await those who earn by your fellow members of the __________ FFA
them. It is our hope that you reach these Association.”
higher goals in our organization. I am pleased
to present each of you with the silver pin of State Treasurer: “Your new achievement
the Chapter FFA Degree.” brings you greater honors as well as
additional responsibilities. You have widened

ceremonies
ffa
(President presents pin to each candidate. the field of your service and influence in the
Secretary reads each name as the pins are strengthening of agriculture, the most basic
being presented.) industry of our nation.”

“Please be seated, and will the officers return State Vice President: “You have been urged
to their stations?” to advance toward higher degrees in the FFA.
We commend you for your accomplishments

State FFA Degree and encourage you to work toward new and
higher goals in our organization and in your
Ceremony chosen occupation.”

State President: (Raps for attention.) “We State President: “In meeting the
shall proceed with the degree ceremonies. requirements of the Greenhand and Chapter
Mr./Mdm. Secretary, what have you to report FFA Degrees, you were told that the golden
concerning candidates eligible for this charm of the State FFA Degree was awaiting
degree?” you. The bronze emblem of the Greenhand
gave way to the silver emblem of the Chapter
State Secretary: “I am pleased to submit the FFA Degree which now has evolved into that
names of __________ (number) candidates who golden charm. This is symbolic of growth
have been selected by the State Executive and development in your chosen occupation.
Committee to receive the State FFA Degree.” May the permanence of the rare and golden
qualities of the emblem be a constant
State President: “Our constitution sets up reminder of the strength of your education
minimum qualifications which must be met and the worthiness of your achievement.
before candidates are eligible for election Therefore, on behalf of the __________ FFA
to this degree. Mr./Mdm. Advisor, have you Association, I confer upon you the State FFA
carefully examined and reviewed the records Degree with its honors and privileges, and
of these candidates?” present to you this charm, the emblem of the
degree.”

41
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

(The Secretary will read the names of the 3. Have graduated from high school at least
newly elected State FFA Degree recipients 12 months prior to the national convention
who will come forward to receive their at which the degree is to be granted.
charms; each recipient is congratulated by 4. Have in operation and have maintained
the state officers. All return to their seats.) records to substantiate an outstanding
supervised agricultural experience
State President: “Please be seated. Will the program through which a member has
officers return to their stations?” exhibited comprehensive planning,
managerial and financial expertise.

American FFA 5. A student after entering agricultural

education must have:
Degree Ceremony a. Earned at least $10,000 and
productively invested at least $7,500; or
National President: (Raps for attention.) b. Earned and productively invested
“We now come to one of the most important $2,000 and worked 2,250 hours in
activities of the national FFA convention: excess of scheduled class time. Any
the election and raising of candidates to the combination of hours, times a factor
American FFA Degree. This degree marks the of 3.56, plus actual dollars earned
highest level of membership which may be and productively invested must be
achieved in our organization. equal to or greater than the number
10,000. Hours used for the purpose
“As you know, our constitution sets of producing earnings reported as
qualifications which must be met before productively invested income shall
candidates are eligible for election to the not be duplicated as hours of credit to
American FFA Degree. Mr./Mdm. Secretary, meet the minimum requirements for
will you please read the qualifications for this the degree.
degree?” 6. Have a record of outstanding leadership
abilities and community involvement and
National Secretary: (Rises and reads the have achieved a high school scholastic
qualifications as set forth in Article 6, Section record of “C” or better as certified by the
ceremonies

F, of the National FFA Constitution.) principal or superintendent.”

7. Have participated in at least 50 hours of
community service, within at least three
ffa

“To be eligible to receive the American FFA

Degree from the National FFA Organization, different community service activities.
the member must meet the following These hours are in addition to and cannot
minimum qualifications: be duplicated as paid or unpaid SAE
hours.
1. Have received the State FFA Degree, have
been an active member for the past three National President: “Mr./Mdm. Advisor, have
years (36 months) and have a record of the records of each of these candidates been
satisfactory participation in the activities carefully reviewed?”
on the chapter and state levels.
2. Have satisfactorily completed the National Advisor: “They have, Mr./Mdm.
equivalent of at least three years (540 President. All candidates nominated have
hours) of systematic secondary school been found worthy of the honor of the
instruction in an agricultural education American FFA Degree and are recommended
program or to have completed at for approval at this time.”
least the equivalent of 360 hours of
systematic secondary school instruction in National President: “The chair will entertain
agricultural education and one full year of a motion to approve these candidates for the
enrollment in a postsecondary agricultural American FFA Degree.”
program or have completed the program
of agricultural education offered in the
secondary school last attended.

42
(One delegate moves and another seconds Third Vice President: “As your officers, it is
that the candidates recommended receive our duty to acknowledge achievement in a
the American FFA Degree. Vote should be fitting and proper manner according to the
taken on all candidates at the same time.) provisions of our constitution. We know you
are proud to have attained your goal, and we
National President: “Mr./Mdm. Secretary, are equally proud to reward your efforts in the
what is the result of the vote?” name of the National FFA Organization.”

National Secretary: “Mr./Mdm. President, the Second Vice President: “Boundaries

vote is __________ to __________ (or unanimous).” within our country exist only in name. True
American citizens are interested in and loyal
National President: “Thank you, Mr./Mdm. to their local communities and states, but
Secretary. I now declare the candidates their greatest devotion is to their country.
approved according to your vote. Will the Recipients of the American FFA Degree
other national officers prepare to raise these see beyond limited horizons. They concern
members to the American FFA Degree? Will themselves not only with the affairs of their
the candidates please stand?” local chapters and state associations, but also
with the National FFA Organization, working
(All candidates RISE at three taps of the for the advancement of agriculture, which, in
gavel. Candidates REMAIN STANDING turn, strengthens America.”
during the ceremony as officers recite the
ritual.) First Vice President: “As recipients of the
Greenhand, Chapter and State FFA degrees,
Fourth Vice President: “Congratulations! you were encouraged to advance to the
By your accomplishments you have proven American FFA Degree. Through your untiring

ceremonies
ffa
not only your interest but your efficiency in efforts you have now succeeded in attaining
agriculture, the world’s essential industry. a significant goal. This honor carries with it
You are entitled to the honor and privileges additional responsibility, and we look upon
which accompany the American FFA this occasion as a milestone in your life
Degree. May your efforts in the future be as of achievement in agriculture. Your vision
meaningful and productive as they have has expanded beyond the limits of your
been in the past.” community and the confines of your state
until it reached the broad horizon of the
great United States of America. Therefore,

43
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

you are expected to set a worthy example National President: “Please be seated. Will
of a progressive agriculturist and to exert the officers return to their stations?”
leadership in local, state and national affairs.”

National Advisor: “I charge you to continue

Honorary Member
your demonstrated faith in agriculture. Ceremony
Always be proud to work in the industry of
agriculture and value your achievements. President: “It is always a pleasure to receive
With all the virtues of independence in honorary members into the FFA. The purpose
thought and action, be mindful of your of this ceremony is to recognize, from time
individual limitations and your vital need to to time, the efforts of others made on our
cooperate with your neighbors in the larger behalf. Mr./Mdm. Secretary, please read the
business and social activities which have section of the national constitution which
become an essential part of our society. provides for honorary membership.” (Reads
Remember, ‘in union there is strength.’” Article 5, Section E.)

National President: “The fact that the Secretary: “Honorary membership—farmers,

emblem of the FFA is surmounted by an school superintendents, principals, members
American eagle is significant. The eagle is of boards of education, chapter advisors,
symbolic of strength, courage, the national teachers, staff members in agricultural
scope of our organization and the extended education, business people and others who
honor which has been conferred upon you. are helping to advance agricultural education
and the FFA and who have rendered
“From earliest times, the eagle has been outstanding service, may be elected to
used as an emblem of leadership, power and honorary membership by a majority vote of
progress. At the head of their legions, the the members present at any regular meeting
Romans carried a golden eagle perched upon or convention.”
a spear.
President: “Mr./Mdm. Secretary, will you
“In 1782, the United States adopted as its introduce those who are to receive this
ceremonies

emblem the eagle with outspread wings, a honor?”

shield upon its breast and holding an olive
branch and a sheaf of arrows in its talons. The
ffa

Secretary: “Mr./Mdm. President, members

eagle is a bird of superb strength, keenness of and guests, I am pleased to read the
sight and marvelous powers of flight. As the following names:”
eagle soars high, so let your vision soar and
lead you to greater heights of achievement. (Secretary reads the names of the
Bring clear and purposeful thought to bear recipient(s)).
on your problems. Be strong and fearless in
spirit and action. President: “Will the officers take their places
beside me? Will the ushers please present
“On behalf of the National FFA Organization, the candidates?”
I confer upon you the American FFA Degree,
together with its honors and privileges.” (To explain why the honor is being conferred,
the secretary gives a summary of what each
(Candidates BE SEATED at 1 tap of the gavel.) candidate has done.)
“Will the vice president escort the newly-
elected degree recipients to the platform to Sentinel*: “I welcome you as friends of the
receive a key and a certificate?” FFA. It is my privilege as sentinel to extend
to each of you the symbolic handclasp of
(Candidates receive the degree as their friendship and brotherhood.”
names are read.)
Reporter*: “As reporter, I am pleased
to inform you that the FFA is a national
youth organization whose purpose is to

44
develop agricultural leaders. Welcome to “Cooperation is the foundation upon which
membership.” we build success. Only through our efforts
together are we able to reach new heights.”
Treasurer*: “Your contribution as a useful
citizen in our democracy serves as an “As FFA Alumni and Supporters, we are
example for our members to follow. As entrusted with the greatest tasks: to help
treasurer, I welcome you to our organization.” educate our youth and ensure the success
of their future. As parents, community
Secretary*: “The FFA needs counsel and leaders and friends, each of us has a
guidance from recognized leaders. It is my responsibility and we must fulfill that duty.
pleasure as secretary to add your names to Each student will need you; help when you
can, be trustworthy and honest, but most
our roll of honorary members.”
importantly, make each moment a positive
learning experience.”
Vice President*: “As vice president, I welcome
you to the FFA. I would inform you that our
“Service as an alumni and supporter is an
members learn to appreciate the dignity of
honor and privilege, through which we
labor. Without labor, neither knowledge nor
counsel, guide, support, listen and mentor.
wisdom can accomplish much.”
We can secure the promise of FFA and
agricultural education through premier
President: “On behalf of every member,
leadership, personal growth and career
I wish to say we are proud to have you as
success. Will all FFA Alumni and Supporters
honorary members. May this affiliation prove candidates please rise?”
valuable to all. I impress upon you that we
look to you for counsel and guidance. It is (Candidates rise.)
because of the great respect we have for

ceremonies
ffa
you that you have been elected to honorary Alumni and Supporters President: “Do you
membership. May we always cooperate for pledge to be an advocate for agricultural
the benefit of all. I now confer upon you education and FFA by being diligent in
honorary membership in the __________ FFA your endeavors to ensure the success of
(chapter, association, etc.) and present you FFA and FFA Alumni and Supporters in our
with this token of membership.” community? If so, answer ‘I do’.”

*These portions may be omitted if it is Candidates: “I do.”

desired to shorten this ceremony. Italicized
portions may be omitted in the event that Alumni and Supporters President: “I, (Name),
officers other than those indicated are President of the (Chapter, State or National)
presenting the parts. FFA Alumni and Supporters (Chapter or
Association) confer upon you membership
within National FFA Alumni and Supporters,
FFA Alumni with all rights, privileges and responsibilities!

and Supporters “Let us welcome our new members with a

Membership round of applause.”

Induction Ceremony (Round of applause)

FFA Alumni and Supporters President: “In Alumni and Supporters President: “FFA
1971 the National FFA Alumni Association Alumni and Supporters may be seated.
was established in support of the FFA
organization. Since that time, thousands of “Congratulations! Membership within the
individuals at the local, state and national National FFA Alumni and Supporters is
levels have joined National FFA Alumni and essential in securing the success of the FFA
Supporters to secure the promise of FFA and and agricultural education. Through our
agricultural education for future generations.” continued cooperation, we will realize new
visions and goals and achieve tremendous
success.”

45
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

Ceremony for
duty to assist in conducting meetings and
ceremonies.”
Installing Officers
Retiring President: “It is an honor to be
Retiring President: “__________ , as president- an officer in the FFA. From time to time
elect, you have been selected by your fellow during the year, you may encounter difficult
members to be the leader of our chapter* problems, but through cooperation, hard
for the coming year. You are therefore work and dedication, you will succeed and
responsible for guiding our chapter* in all the FFA will prosper. Do each of you accept
its worthy undertakings. May you work the responsibilities of your office, and will
intelligently and seriously to fulfill the you do your best to uphold the ideals and
responsibilities of your office.” principles of the FFA? If so, answer ‘We do’.”

Retiring Vice President: “__________ , as Newly Elected Officers: “We do.”

vice president-elect, your record of
accomplishment indicates you have those Retiring President: “I now declare each
qualities of leadership which we should all of you properly and duly installed in the
possess. You are to assist the president in respective office to which you were elected.
directing the work of our chapter*, preside May your year of service be marked by
over meetings in his/her absence and keep all integrity, dedication and a cooperative spirit.
committees working effectively.” Seek harmony among your fellow officers
and set high standards of leadership for all
Retiring Secretary: “__________ , as secretary- chapter* members. Retiring officers (turning
elect, you have been chosen to keep accurate to them), will you please escort the newly
minutes of our meetings and to carry on the installed officers to their stations?”
chapter* correspondence. You should provide
the chapter* with the order of business and (The new president presents brief remarks.)
committee assignments for each meeting.
You will also keep a list of members, a record *Use association, organization, etc. when
appropriate.
ceremonies

of degrees awarded and have custody of the

constitution and bylaws.”
This and all ceremonies can be found on
FFA.org under chapter resources.
ffa

Retiring Treasurer: “__________ , as treasurer-

elect, you have been placed in a position
of trust. Your duties require you to keep
an accurate record of receipts and
disbursements and to provide regular
financial reports. It is also your responsibility
to assist in developing the chapter* budget
and maintaining sound financial practices.”

Retiring Reporter: “__________ , as reporter-

elect, your duty is to inform the public about
the FFA. You are expected to work closely
with the news media, including state and
national FFA publications. You should keep a
record of photographs and articles published
concerning the FFA and its members and be
responsible for compiling our FFA history.”

Retiring Sentinel: “__________ , as sentinel-elect,

your duties include welcoming our friends,
caring for the meeting rooms and FFA
equipment and providing for the comfort
of our members and guests. It is also your

46
National Quality FFA The National Quality FFA Chapter
Standards include the following
Chapter Standards 13 indicators:

The key to a successful FFA chapter is active 1. All students enrolled in the agricultural
members! When you become actively education program have the opportunity
involved in your chapter, you strengthen to be a member of FFA.
the chapter. In return, a strong local chapter
provides a solid foundation for your success 2. Students build a progressive leadership
in FFA and beyond. The experiences of and personal development plan.
thousands of former FFA members prove that
the following features will contribute greatly 3. All students participate in meaningful
to the success of your FFA chapter and to leadership and personal development
operations
chapter

your success as well. activities in each component of the

agricultural education program:
The National Quality FFA Chapter Standards • Classroom and laboratory instruction.
serve as a foundation for consistent delivery • Experiential, project, and work-based
of quality FFA chapters across the nation learning through SAEs.
focused on growing leaders, building • Leadership and personal development
communities and strengthening agriculture. through FFA.
These standards are designed to be used by
local advisors, administration, community 4. The FFA chapter constitution and bylaws
partners and/or stakeholders, FFA Alumni are up-to-date and approved by chapter
and Supporters and/or an assessment members.
team to conduct an evaluation of the local
FFA chapter and develop clear goals and 5. FFA members are involved in the planning
objectives for chapter improvement. and implementation of a Program of
Activities (POA).

47
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

Official Chapter Equipment

1 FFA Banner

A Complete Set of Officer Stations (Symbols)

7 or more Official FFA Manuals

1 Official FFA Flag

1 Gavel and Block

1 Scrapbook

*All items are available on ShopFFA.org.

Program of Activities
6. The FFA chapter conducts regularly
scheduled chapter meetings.

7. An awards recognition program planned The Program of Activities (POA) serves to
and conducted by FFA members is in define chapter goals, outline steps needed to
place. meet those goals and act as a written guide
to provide a calendar of events the chapter
8. The FFA chapter has a current budget, will follow in the year ahead. A well-planned
which provides the financial resources to POA will ensure chapter activities meet the
support the POA. needs of its members, provide direction
from year to year, lead to a workable budget,
9. Capable and trained officers lead the FFA provide experience in planning and serve as a
chapter. reference point throughout the year.

10. The FFA chapter has an active, dedicated Success is a result of creative planning and
support group (i.e., FFA Alumni and detailed preparation. In order to invest in
Supporters and agriculture booster club). chapter success, students set goals and plan
the necessary steps to accomplish these
11. Stakeholders are engaged in developing goals. By engaging in the development and
and supporting a quality chapter. delivery of a quality POA, students develop
operations

leadership and planning skills that are

chapter

12. An SAE is an integral component of the essential in all careers. The key to a quality
agricultural education program, with all POA is getting every member involved.
students maintaining an exploratory SAE
and career plan of study. Tools are available to help chapters prepare
their annual POA. These tools are available at
13. A recruitment and retention plan is FFA.org/POA.
yielding steady or increasing student
enrollment. Each chapter builds its POA around three
major areas called divisions. Divisions focus
For more information, including a detailed on the types of activities a chapter conducts.
rubric, visit FFA.org/nationalchapter.

48
The divisions are: • Citizenship
• Growing Leaders • Stakeholder Engagement
• Building Communities • Economic Development
• Strengthening Agriculture • Support Group
• Chapter Recruitment
Each division in the POA has five quality • Safety
standards. Superior chapters conduct • Agricultural Advocacy
activities that relate to each of the quality • Agricultural Literacy
standards.
The committees should develop goals
Successful FFA chapters organize their and activities. When their work has been
POA by using committees. The number completed, each committee should report
of committees will vary by chapter. The its recommendations to the entire chapter
chapter vice president coordinates the work for approval, rejection or amendment.
of committees, and every member should When finalized, the chapter’s POA should
serve on at least one committee. One way to be made available to the members, school
form committees is by the standards for each administrators, advisory committee and other
division: key stakeholders.
• Leadership
• Healthy Lifestyle Additional information is available in the
• Scholarship Official FFA Student Handbook, the Advisor’s
• Personal Growth Guide to the Student Handbook, the Program
• Career Success of Activities Resource Guide and FFA.org.
• Environmental
• Human Resources

operations
chapter

49
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

Chapter Officers
• Appoint committees and serve on them as
an ex-officio, nonvoting member.
• Coordinate the activities of the chapter
Chapter officers serve a vital function in and evaluate the progress of each division
FFA. By taking a major leadership role, these of the POA.
students grow from the experience and • Represent the chapter in public relations
benefit the chapter. It should be the officers’ and official functions.
goals to lead by example and encourage
other members to participate in chapter
Vice President
activities. The following are general duties
• Assume all duties of the president, if
expected of all officers:
necessary.
• A genuine desire to be part of a leadership
• Develop the POA and serve as an
team.
ex-officio, nonvoting member of the POA
• A willingness to accept responsibility.
committees.
• A sincere desire to work with all chapter
• Coordinate all committee work.
members in meeting their leadership,
• Work closely with the president and
personal and chapter goals.
advisor to assess progress toward meeting
• A commitment to lead by example.
chapter goals.
• Knowledge and understanding of
the chapter, state and national FFA
Secretary
constitutions, bylaws and programs.
• Prepare and post the agenda for each
• A working knowledge of parliamentary
chapter meeting.
procedure.
• Prepare and present the minutes of each
• The ability to memorize official
chapter meeting.
ceremonies.
• Place all committee reports in the
There are specific duties and responsibilities
secretary’s file.
that generally relate directly to each office:
• Be responsible for chapter
correspondence.
President • Maintain member attendance and activity
• Preside over meetings according to
records and issue membership cards.
accepted rules of parliamentary procedure.
• Have on hand for each meeting:
-  The secretary’s file
operations
chapter

50
 - Copy of the POA, including all standing Advisor
and special committees. • Supervise chapter activities year-round.
- Official FFA Manual and the Official FFA • Inform prospective students and parents
Student Handbook. about FFA.
- Copy of the chapter constitution and • Instruct students in leadership and
bylaws. personal development.
• Build school and community support for
Treasurer the program.
• Receive, record and deposit FFA funds and • Encourage involvement of all chapter
issue receipts. members in activities.
• Present monthly treasurer reports at • Prepare students for involvement in
chapter meetings. career development events and leadership
• Collect dues and special assessments. programs.
• Maintain neat and accurate treasury
records. Additional Officers a Chapter
• Prepare and submit the membership Might Elect*
roster and dues to the National FFA
Historian
Organization through the state FFA
• Develop and maintain a scrapbook of
association office in cooperation with the
memorabilia to record the chapter’s
secretary.
history.
• Serve as chairperson of the finance or
• Research and prepare items of significance
related committee.
of the chapter’s history.
• Prepare displays of chapter activities and
Reporter
submit stories of former members to the
• Serve as chair of the POA public relations
media.
or related committee.
• Assist the reporter in providing
• Plan public information programs with
photography for chapter needs.
local radio, television, newspaper and
service clubs and make use of other Parliamentarian
opportunities to tell the FFA story. • Be proficient with parliamentary
• Release news and information to local and procedure.
regional news media. • Rule on all questions of parliamentary
• Publish a chapter newsletter or website. conduct at chapter meetings.
• Prepare and maintain a chapter scrapbook. • Serve as a participant or an ex-officio
• Send local stories to area, district and state member of the parliamentary procedure
reporters and to any school publications. team.
operations
chapter

• Send articles and photographs to FFA New • Conduct parliamentary procedure

Horizons and other national and regional workshops at the chapter level.
publications and websites. • Chair or serve as ex-officio member on the
• Work with local media on radio and conduct of meetings committee.
television appearances and FFA news.
Chaplain
• Serve as the chapter photographer.
• Present the invocation at banquets and
other functions.
Sentinel • Conduct reflections services at summer
• Assist the president in maintaining order.
camps and conferences.
• Keep the meeting room, chapter
equipment and supplies in proper
Other Possibilities
condition.
To meet local needs and to expand leadership
• Welcome guests and visitors.
opportunities, other officers may be
• Keep the meeting room comfortable.
designated at the chapter and mini-chapter
• Take charge of candidates for degree
level. Each officer group should at least
ceremonies.
have the six parliamentary offices. Further
• Assist with special features and
information is available in the Official FFA
refreshments.
Student Handbook.

51
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

*Opening ceremonies for other officer As meetings are planned, preparations must
positions can be found on FFA.org. be made in advance by the officer team.
These may include, but are not limited to:
Becoming a State or • Placing the meeting schedule on the
National Officer school’s activity calendar before the start
FFA members who take advantage of the of the school year.
many leadership opportunities in FFA • Making sure officer and committee reports
become top leaders in the organization. Each are written and ready to present.
state elects a group of student officers to • Posting the agenda several days prior to
lead its membership for the year. Qualified the meeting to give all members a chance
candidates must have obtained the State FFA to prepare for discussion and encourage
Degree. Once elected, state officers engage attendance.
in a leadership development continuum that • Having one or two chapter officers visit
reinforces their prior knowledge and trainings with each class prior to the meeting to
for position-related work that builds upon share the agenda and generate discussion.
each other. • Assigning all responsibilities for special
guests, programs, recreation and
National FFA office is the highest elected refreshments.
office in the organization. Members must
have received the American FFA Degree and Arranging the Meeting Room
be selected by their state association to be a An organized meeting room will set the
national officer candidate. All candidates go stage for conducting chapter business. The
through intensive interviews conducted by a correct room arrangement for a meeting is
nominating committee at the National FFA diagrammed on the next page. The following
Convention & Expo. Six national officers are station markers should be placed at the
then elected to lead the organization. officers’ stations:
• Rising Sun – President

Chapter Meetings • Plow – Vice President

• Ear of Corn – Secretary
• Bust of Washington – Treasurer
Every chapter meeting should be an
• American Flag – Reporter
informative and enjoyable experience.
• Owl – Advisor
Besides conducting chapter business, good
• Shield of Friendship – Sentinel
meetings may include entertainment, guest
speakers, recreation and refreshments.
A properly furnished meeting room adds
Variety in programs is essential for
dignity to FFA functions and instills pride
maintaining successful meetings and
in the members. The sentinel should make
member attendance.
sure the chairs and podium are correctly
positioned and the stations for each office
Planning Chapter Meetings are in place prior to each meeting. All of this
The executive committee should plan the equipment should be kept presentable at
operations

agenda and post it in the chapter meeting all times and properly displayed or stored
chapter

room several days prior to each meeting. when not in use. The American flag must be
Members should discuss the items of prominently displayed.
business with the advisor’s guidance.

A little imagination can transform a

Official opening and closing ceremonies are traditional meeting room into an interesting
to be used at all meetings. Well-performed depiction of chapter achievement. Many
ceremonies build pride and enthusiasm chapters display a “wall of fame” featuring
not only in the officer team but within the chapter trophies, plaques, ribbons,
entire chapter. A majority of chapter business certificates and other awards. A photographic
should involve items planned in the Program display of State and American FFA Degree
of Activities. recipients, winning teams or individuals
encourages members to excel.

52
 President

Secretary
Reporter
Treasurer

Advisor
Vice President

Sentinel – Stationed at the door

An attractive bulletin board provides a place • When the flag is displayed either
to post the upcoming agenda, notices, horizontally or vertically against a wall, the
announcements, photos, news clippings, stars should be in the top left corner.
current project status and much more. Some • A flag in poor condition should be
chapters have an executive work area where destroyed as a whole, privately, preferably
the officers may meet and keep their records. by burning.
operations
chapter

The American Flag For more information, refer to Flag Rules and
The American flag is used as a symbol to Regulations at usflag.org/flagetiquette.html.
foster citizenship among members. It should
be displayed at all official FFA meetings and Order of Business
functions. The following are some simple An established order of business should
rules governing its use: be followed at all chapter meetings. When
• The flag shall never be subjected to members know what to expect, they can
contempt, disrespect or insult. participate more effectively. The following
• It may not be used for advertising order is suggested for regular meetings but
purposes, and nothing should be attached can be changed to suit individual chapter
to the cloth of the flag. needs. The most important reason for using
• No other flag or pennant should be this order is so that significant items will not
displayed above the flag. be overlooked and member participation will
• Never allow the flag to touch the ground be heightened.
or to be used as drapery or as a costume.
• Always carry the flag aloft and free.
• March right in a line of flags or in front of
the center of the other flags.

53
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

Opening Ceremony should be conducted, committee and should follow the meeting to
including the call to order, roll call and increase interest in attendance.
quorum determination.
*Guests and speakers frequently are unable
Reading and approval of the minutes of the to stay through an entire meeting. Special
previous meeting should be prepared and features are positioned early in the program,
presented by the secretary and approved yet may be changed to suit the needs of
by the members as read or as amended. the meeting. Official business should be
Their reading is omitted if they were sent to completed before entertainment, recreation
members in advance. or refreshments.

Reports of officers, boards and standing Parliamentary Procedure

committees—The treasurer, and all other The purpose of parliamentary procedure is to
officer reports, should be presented. Standing promote efficient meetings so that business
committee reports are presented in the order can be transacted in an orderly manner.
they are listed in the bylaws. Each chapter member should know how to
conduct and take part in a meeting in order
Reports of special (select or ad hoc) to protect the rights of all members.
committees that were established for a
specific project should present their findings A knowledge of parliamentary procedure not
in the order the committees were appointed. only strengthens chapter meetings but also
provides members with valuable leadership
Special orders allows the consideration of tools for participation in the chapter,
specially scheduled business at this time. community and other organizations.

Unfinished business and general orders Chapter officers, in particular, need to

are designed to consider motions that were know the rules of parliamentary procedure.
pending and items on the agenda that were Observing parliamentary procedure will
not considered when the previous meeting ensure that:
adjourned, motions that were postponed to • One item is addressed at a time.
the present meeting, and motions that were • Courtesy is extended to everyone.
laid on the table. • The majority rules.
• The rights of the minority are protected.
New business allows members to introduce
new items for consideration that are on the Knowledge of parliamentary procedure
meeting agenda and others introduced by becomes a life-long asset, valuable for leading
chapter members. or participating in meetings in an informed
and efficient way. At the chapter level,
Special features include speakers, panels, officers and members find it much easier
guest appearances, award presentations and to conduct and take part in meetings when
other nonbusiness items. supported by a background of parliamentary
operations

knowledge.
chapter

Ceremonies are used only when new

members are initiated, Discovery FFA Use of the Gavel
Degrees are awarded, Discovery FFA Degree All officers and members should understand
recipients are raised to the Greenhand FFA the use and meaning of the gavel. It is the
Degree, Greenhands are raised to the Chapter symbol of authority and, when used correctly,
FFA Degree or officers are installed. ensures orderly meetings.

Announcements One tap of the gavel follows the

announcement of adjournment, the
Closing Ceremony completion of a business item or is a
message to the members to be seated.
Entertainment, recreation and/or
refreshments are planned by the recreation

54
 Summary of Parliamentary Motions
TABLE OF MOTIONS
Interrupt? Second? Debate? Amend? Vote? Reconsider?
PRIVILEGED MOTIONS
Fix the Time to Which
to Adjourn No Yes No Yes Maj Yes
Adjourn No Yes No No Maj No
Recess No Yes No Yes Maj No
Raise a Question of
Privilege Yes No No No (1) No
Call for the Orders of
the Day Yes No No No (14)* No
SUBSIDIARY MOTIONS
Lay on the Table No Yes No No Maj (3)*
Previous Question No Yes No No 2/3 Yes
Limit or Extend Limits
of Debate No Yes No Yes 2/3 Yes
Postpone to a Certain
Time (or Definitely) No Yes Yes Yes Maj Yes
Commit or Refer No Yes Yes Yes Maj Yes
Amend No Yes (5) Yes Maj Yes
Postpone Indefinitely No Yes Yes (15) No Maj (4)
MAIN MOTIONS
Main Motion No Yes Yes Yes Maj Yes
INCIDENTAL MOTIONS (11)
Suspend the Rules No Yes No No (9)* No
Withdraw a Motion * * No No Maj (12)* (3)
Objection to the
Consideration of a
Question (10) Yes No No No 2/3 Neg. (3)
Point of Order Yes No No* No (1)* No
Parliamentary Inquiry Yes No No No (1) No
Appeal Yes Yes Yes* No (7) Yes
Request for Information Yes No No No (1) No
Division of the Assembly Yes No No No (13) No
Division of a Question No Yes No Yes Maj No
MOTIONS THAT BRING A QUESTION AGAIN BEFORE THE ASSEMBLY (8)
Reconsider* (2) No* Yes (5) (15) No Maj No
Rescind No Yes Yes (15) Yes (6) (3)
operations
chapter

Take from the Table No Yes No No Maj No

The first 12 motions are listed by precedence. After the chair states a motion, higher-ranking motions are in order and lower-
ranking motions are not (except for Amend as shown on the chart and Previous Question).
* - Refer to Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised for rule(s)
(1) Chair decides or answers. Normally no vote is taken.
(2) Only made by a member who voted on the prevailing side and is subject to time limits.
(3) Only the negative vote may be reconsidered.
(4) Only the affirmative vote may be reconsidered.
(5) Debatable when applied to a debatable motion.
(6) Majority with notice, or two-thirds without notice or majority of entire membership.
(7) Majority or tie vote sustains the chair.
(8) None of these motions (except Reconsider) is in order when business is pending.
(9) Majority vote required for Ordinary Standing Rules. Two-Thirds votes for Rules of Order.
(10) Must be proposed before debate has begun or a subsidiary motion is stated by the chair (applied to original main motions).
(11) The incidental motions have no precedence (rank). They are in order when the need arises.
(12) The maker of a motion may withdraw it without permission of the assembly before the motion is stated by the chair.
(13) On demand of a single member, the chair must take a rising but not necessarily a counted vote.
(14) Upon a call by a single member, the orders of the day must be enforced.
(15) May go into the merits of the question which is the subject of the underlying action.

55
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

Two taps of the gavel call the meeting to it be attainment of the Discovery, Greenhand
order. or Chapter FFA degrees, a chapter proficiency
award or a scholarship.
Three taps of the gavel is the signal for all
members to stand in unison on the third tap. The school administration should play a
prominent role in the chapter banquet. By
A series of sharp taps is used to restore presenting scholarships and other awards,
order at a meeting. For instance, if discussion superintendents, principals and guidance
ventures away from the main motion and counselors become part of the team and give
attention needs to be brought back to the recognition to the students’ work. Companies
matter at hand, the chairman should rap the and private individuals sponsor proficiency
gavel a number of times to get the group’s awards and several other awards through
attention. the National FFA Foundation or state FFA
foundations. When local representatives of
Summary of Motions the sponsoring companies are available, they
The Summary of Motions can be found should be given the opportunity to make
on page 55. For more information on these presentations.
parliamentary procedure, see the Official
FFA Student Handbook. Even more detail is The entire banquet, including the meal and
operations

available in parliamentary procedure books program, should not exceed two-and-a-half

chapter

such as Robert’s Rules of Order, Newly hours. If desired, a reception with punch or an
Revised. open house tour of the facility and a review of
projects might precede the banquet.

Chapter Banquet All chapter members should receive

instruction on appearance and table
The chapter banquet is the highlight of the
manners. Students should sit with their
year for many FFA chapters. The banquet is
parents.
an opportunity for chapter members to work
together to showcase chapter and individual
Banquet preparations should be assigned to
accomplishments. A carefully planned
specific members and special committees.
program should see that every member is
Most chapters select a general chairman and
recognized for some achievement, whether

56
form these committees: other publicity activities. It is important to
• Menu and serving know the newspapers, websites, and radio
• Program outline (including entertainment) and television stations serving your area.
and creation of the paper program Assemble contact information for education
• Invitations, guest list, thank-you cards and reporters or community events calendars
letters in all appropriate media. If your school has
• Room arrangement and decorations a school newspaper, make sure you submit
• Publicity (before and after the event) regular information to it. A quick visit or
• Courtesy Corps phone call to introduce yourself can be a nice
• Set up and clean up personal touch. Talk to the reporters you
plan to contact and ask them their preferred
Detailed suggestions for planning and format for receiving articles or news releases.
conducting a banquet may be found under They will likely prefer to receive information
educator resources on FFA.org. ShopFFA.org electronically.
also carries banquet decorations, awards and
chapter supplies. When preparing articles or news releases
for publication, they should be typed,

Public Relations double-spaced and edited for sentence

structure, spelling, punctuation and clarity.
Consider asking a teacher from your English
By communicating with your school and
or journalism department for advice on
community, your FFA chapter can build
preparing posts, articles and news releases.
prestige as a valuable, active and involved
Articles should be approved by your chapter
organization. This communication and
advisor and, in some instances, by a school
visibility is called public relations. If you
administrator prior to submitting to the
take public relations seriously, you and your
media.
chapter can benefit from community interest
and support — both of which are vital to the
Don’t forget FFA New Horizons magazine,
success of your FFA projects and agricultural
FFA Today on RFD-TV and RURAL RADIO
education program.
SiriusXM, FFA videos and all the electronic
options available to you. Facebook and
Although the reporter is charged directly
Twitter can be important tools to help you get
with keeping the community informed
the word out about your chapter activities
of FFA activities, keep in mind that every
and accomplishments. Make sure that your
member has the responsibility to represent
website, social network pages and online
agricultural education and FFA. Your actions
posts are professional and reflect properly
operations
chapter

while you are in Official Dress or other FFA

on your chapter and FFA. Remember, the
apparel can positively affect the image of FFA
entire world can see the information you put
in your community.
online; this can be a great opportunity but
also a great responsibility. If you have a story
The public relations effort can be one of
to share with us, fill out the story submission
the most important and challenging in the
form at FFA.org/submit-your-story-idea.
chapter, because many of your chapter
activities will interest local media. The
When planning your chapter’s public
public relations committee should create
relations program, keep the following in
a promotion plan, considering the entire
mind:
year’s worth of chapter activities. The
chapter reporter serves as chairperson of
Names are news—Your name, names of
the public relations committee; members
current and former members, award or
then relay information to the reporter and
contest winners, parents and others increase
work with him or her to prepare regular
reader interest.
news releases, website updates and social
network posts on chapter happenings. The
public relations committee can also initiate

57
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

Tips for Social

News release format—Always provide your
contact name and telephone number at
the top of the release. For a news release Networking
template, visit the FFA Brand Center on
FFA.org. Social networking sites like Facebook
(facebook.com/nationalffa), Twitter (http://
News stories—Tell the reader the basics— twitter.com/nationalffa) and Instagram
who, what, when, where, why and how. (instagram.com/nationalffa) are fun, cheap
and easy ways to communicate with your
Feature stories—When more in-depth members and supporters. There are a few
coverage of an interesting chapter member things you’ll want to keep in mind, though, to
or function is in order, write a feature story. ensure social networking success.

Photographs—Often a single, good 1. Update often—but not too often.

photograph has more impact than an article. We know that your chapter has tons of
Clear, sharp photos are welcomed by most exciting news to share with the world,
newspaper editors. All photographs should but that doesn’t mean you have to share
include a cutline detailing the activity in the it all at once! For sites like Facebook and
picture. Twitter, it’s a good idea to stick to only
one to two updates a day and space them
Human interest stories—FFA members are out over time. Instead of sending three
often good candidates for this type of story updates in one hour, for example, try
because of the variety of their activities. sending one update in the morning, one in
FFA members renovating the city park or the afternoon and one in the evening.
conducting projects tell of their commitment
to community service. Twitter’s platform allows for more frequent
updating, but still you should try to limit
Special events—FFA activities including it to three to five tweets per day, and
community development projects, National again, space them out. One tweet every
FFA Week and the state convention are ideal two hours is a good rule of thumb. Follow
for involving the community and the media. school policy for media use during school
hours.
Radio and TV programs—These outlets
provide excellent coverage but require careful 2. Watch your tone.
planning. Be sure you are prepared for any Writing on social networks is a little
TV or radio program. In TV, it is important to different from the writing you’d do for
have good visuals. Looking sharp in Official an essay in your English class or even for
Dress can make a lasting impression. your FFA chapter’s website. It’s okay to
be a little less formal and a little more
National FFA Week—This special week for conversational. But you’ll still want to
FFA members offers a unique opportunity pay attention to your grammar and
operations

to share your message with your school and spelling. Avoid using too much slang and
chapter

the community. FFA.org/FFAweek has all the make sure your message can be easily
tools and templates you need to plan a full understood by all types of audiences.
week of events. Window displays, outreach Your fellow FFA members, parents, and
activities, open house programs, full-page community business leaders can and will
advertisements for the local newspaper, follow you on your social networks.
guest FFA appearances at service clubs, radio
and TV—these and more can bring attention Also, keep it positive. Your chapter’s social
to the presence of FFA as a positive influence networking site is not the best place to
in the community. complain about how unfair it is that your
chapter lost the state livestock judging
competition. Remember, once you’ve made
a comment on a social networking site, it
can be difficult, if not impossible, to retract.

58
3. Reciprocate! magazine is owned and operated by FFA,
The best thing about social networking is and the National FFA Board of Directors
that it’s, well…social! Your purpose is not and national officers control its policies. By
only to send out messages and updates paying their national dues, FFA members
to your followers but also to communicate automatically subscribe to FFA New Horizons;
with them. Try to respond to most of the a portion of each member’s dues goes
comments and messages you get through toward the operation and publication of the
your social networking sites. And try to magazine. In addition to submitting news
engage your audience by asking them about individual members and activities in
questions and requesting feedback on their chapters, members may consider giving
your activities. FFA New Horizons gift subscriptions to school
administrators, libraries, and important

FFA Resources chapter or community supporters.

FFA also offers teaching guides on FFA.org to

The National FFA Organization offers several
go with each issue of the magazine.
resources—most of them free—for FFA
members, agriculture teachers, teacher
educators, agricultural education majors and
Find free resources for the chapter and
FFA advisors. These materials are designed
advisor as well as for alumni and supporters
to help you succeed in every aspect of
at FFA.org/resources.
your agriculture program—from classroom
instruction and leadership training to SAE
resources.
FFA.org
Visitors can quickly and easily access
FFA New Horizons important information about the organization
on FFA.org. The site features FFA history;
details on awards, events, conferences
and programs; resources; videos; stories;
and more. Audience-specific dashboards
personalize the site’s information, making
it easier to access applications and other
educational resources.

FFA Media and Brand Center

The FFA Media and Brand Center is a
operations
chapter

section of FFA.org that helps to define the

organization’s identity, tone and voice, and
should be considered your first step before
creating materials and messaging about local
and state FFA activities and events. Whether
you are creating print pieces or improving your
website, these resources help you understand
proper usage of the federally trademarked FFA
emblem, specific color codes for national blue
and corn gold, recommended typefaces/fonts,
and other helpful information. A downloadable
FFA New Horizons is the official member brand guide contains specific guidelines
magazine of the National FFA Organization. for a variety of uses, while templates, high-
The magazine is filled with information resolution files and more make it simple to
about FFA, agricultural education, career accurately and confidently portray the FFA
possibilities and chapter and individual brand.
accomplishments. FFA New Horizons is
published twice a year and mailed to FFA
members, alumni and supporters. The

59
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

Career-Based
• Makes efficient use of your time by
integrating and engaging your students
Resources with CDEs/LDEs at a high level within the
classroom.

AgExplorer • Contains lesson plans, PowerPoints,

National FFA, Discovery Education and activities, worksheets, questions,

AgCareers.com joined forces to create a vocabulary and discussion topics. Lessons

robust, comprehensive career resource have the components necessary to teach

to help you explore the broad range new students about a particular CDE/LDE.

of agricultural careers. The industry • Offers information for an entry-level

of agriculture can open up a world student who may not have any prior

of possibilities, and the demand for experience in the CDE/LDE area.

professionals in every agricultural area

is high. AgExplorer lets you learn more SAE Videos
about which career may be right for you by This video series highlights FFA members
watching videos, participating in virtual field and their diverse SAEs from across the
trips, exploring more than 250 careers and country. Use these videos to introduce the
completing the interactive Career Finder to topic of SAEs to students and showcase
see which careers match your interests. Be a variety of opportunities. Check out the
sure to check it out at AgExplorer.com. choiceboards and lesson plans to use these in
the classroom.
*The number of careers in agriculture will
continue to change based on innovations and SAE Idea Cards
advancements. The SAE Idea Cards provide students and
advisors with more than 360 SAE ideas
FFA Blue 365 in nine career focus areas. Each career
FFA Blue 365 brings a focus on careers of the area provides ideas for all SAE types:
future, innovation and solving for tomorrow Entrepreneurship/Ownership, Placement/
into the classroom. FFA Blue 365 provides Internship, Research, School-Based Enterprise
chapters with videos, lesson plans, and case and Service-Learning. Each idea also
studies that will inspire students to create a identifies future career opportunities via
better tomorrow. For more information on AgExplorer.
FFA Blue 365, head to FFA.org/blue365/.

FFA Resume Generator©

The FFA Resume Generator is a tool that
takes the guesswork out of creating a
polished resume by focusing on the user’s
strengths and experiences. The resume
generator walks users through the process
of creating a resume, so they no longer have
operations

to worry if they include the right things or if

chapter

they are correctly formatting their resumes.

Information is saved, so updating is easy, and
users can generate their resumes in several
different file types.

CDE/LDE Classroom Resource

This classroom resource is designed to
provide advisors with information to integrate
CDE/LDE concepts into the classroom. The
resource:

60
Teacher Outreach
Service-Learning
A common misconception is that service-
learning is the same as community service,
National Teacher Ambassadors but there are distinct differences. For
for FFA Program example, service-learning occurs over the
The National Teacher Ambassadors for FFA course of a semester or year, makes learning
Program is open to any current middle/ more hands-on, includes intentional and
high school agriculture teacher who structured reflection, and creates reciprocal
completes the online application and is partnerships. Service-learning projects
chosen by the selection committee. Over provide a meaningful way of applying the
the course of the one-year term, the leadership and educational skills learned in
ambassador will complete training, deliver school and through FFA to meet an identified
workshops and create social media posts community need. Simply put, the value
promoting National FFA resources and of service-learning is in learning by doing.
opportunities. Ambassadors will also work One example of a service-learning project
with teachers from across the country to is creating a community garden to harvest
brainstorm and share ideas. Visit FFA.org/ produce throughout the year to donate to
TeacherAmbassadors for more information local food pantries.
on the program such as the objectives of the
Living to Serve Grant Series
program, the responsibilities/expectations of
The Living to Serve Grant Series provides
an ambassador and the professional growth
an opportunity for FFA chapters and state
opportunities (benefits to teachers).
associations/foundations to seek funding
to support various types of service projects
FFA Programs, through a competitive application process.

Events and Platforms This innovative funding approach supports

more diverse service focus areas that
include Community Safety; Environmental
Living to Serve Responsibility; Hunger, Health and Nutrition;
The last line of the FFA motto, “Living to and Community Engagement. For more
Serve,” signifies the vital role service plays information on the Living to Serve Grant
in the National FFA Organization. The Living Series, visit FFA.org/LivingToServe.
to Serve Platform empowers FFA members
and chapters to make a positive impact National FFA Week
in their communities by providing quality Each year, FFA chapters around the country
service engagement programs, resources and celebrate National FFA Week during the
recognition. Find more information on the week of George Washington’s birthday.
platform at FFA.org/LivingToServe. The National FFA Organization creates
and distributes materials – including an
Service Engagement
official FFA Week proclamation, poster
Service can take on several meanings.
and planning guide – to help chapters
Community service and service-learning
plan, conduct and celebrate successful
are two forms of service that are commonly
FFA Week activities. Whether it’s hosting a
confused. The following information includes
teacher appreciation breakfast, conducting
definitions and examples of ways to engage
an “Ag Olympics,” speaking in groups to
your chapter in both forms of service.
community organizations or coordinating
Community Service a service project, FFA members have great
Community service is often a one-time event opportunities each year to showcase their
where an individual or group provides time accomplishments, abilities and contributions
events and platforms
ffa programs,

and services to better their community, to local schools, organizations and

without pay. Potential community service communities.
projects include Adopt-a-Highway, canned
food or clothing drives or helping senior
citizens with yard work.

61
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

We Are FFA the boiling point of leadership. Themes for

The We Are FFA platform was created to the 2020-21 school year will be announced
promote the appreciation of diversity through annually. 212° conferences are recommended
inclusiveness. We encourage members for middle school, ninth-, and 10th-grade
to celebrate diversity while becoming students.
multiculturally aware through inclusive 360°
activities. 360° is when a journey comes full circle. The
• We believe as different as we are, we all 360° conference will equip students with the
desire the same. We all want a sense of tools they need to come full circle in their
belonging. leadership journey. Themes for the 2020-21
• Our vision is to further develop an inclusive school year will be announced in the summer
organization where every person is annually. 360° conferences are recommended
respected, connected and affirmed. for 11th- and 12th-grade students.
• Our opportunity is to deliver national
Washington Leadership Conference
programs and provide resources that
WLC provides the ultimate leadership
serve as a model in removing barriers and
experience for members of the National FFA
creating opportunities for success for every
Organization. This program is designed for
student, in every classroom, every day.
those members who are ready to take their
leadership skills to a higher level. Located
Agricultural Literacy and
in our nation’s capital, WLC hosts one-week
Advocacy
conferences over the course of the summer.
The National FFA Organization has
The conference focuses on the following
established an agricultural literacy and
areas:
advocacy platform to deliver a suite of skills
• Self-Awareness
including effective communication, critical
• Diversity
thinking, civic comprehension, and a holistic
• Advocacy
understanding of the industry of agriculture.
• Service
Through the easily transferable advocacy
WLC is a hands-on leadership conference that
model and #SpeakAg Dialogues, our student
puts practical tools and valuable experiences
members can effectively advocate for
into the hands of FFA members. Current FFA
agriculture now and in the future. Visit FFA.
members who are at least 14 years old and/or
org/literacyadvocacy to learn more.
would be attending the summer immediately
after they have graduated from high school
Leadership Conferences
are eligible to attend WLC.
The National FFA Organization provides
several leadership conferences that cultivate
Career Conferences
and nurture future leaders. Leadership
For members who are passionate about
conferences are offered to students
their future careers, National FFA offers the
throughout their FFA journey — from
Next Generation and New Century Farmer
middle school through high school. These
conferences. These conferences provide
conferences give members the chance to
members with an opportunity to explore
develop and refine skills that will grow a
their future career paths, learn from industry
lifetime of leadership.
experts and develop a strong network.
212° and 360° conferences are hosted by
For more information about these
individual districts, regions or states. The
opportunities, visit FFA.org/conferences.
Washington Leadership Conference is hosted
by National FFA in Washington, D.C. Visit FFA. Next Generation Conferences
org/conferences for more information. The next generation of leaders are the
FFA members of today. For members who
events and platforms

212°
are passionate about their future careers,
212° is the temperature when water boils.
the Next Generation Conferences serve
At 211° water is extremely hot, but just one
ffa programs,

as a launching pad to learn more about

more degree gets us to the next level. 212°
their next steps after high school. Next
conferences will empower students with
Generation Conferences focus on specific
new knowledge and skills to take them to

62
career pathways such as animal systems, can run for a state officer position. The
plant systems and agribusiness systems. National FFA Organization has a series of
Students will tour diverse operations in their leadership development experiences created
career pathway, learn from industry experts to assist officers in being competent and
and network with students who share their confident in their state leadership roles. This
interests. The conference culminates in the series of growth opportunities are referred
creation of a future readiness plan that will to as the State FFA Officer Leadership
prepare students to be the next generation of Continuum and develops state officers in 11
leaders in agriculture. key focus areas:
• Sound Character
New Century Farmer
• Positive Influence
Production agriculture requires forward
• Professionalism
thinking leadership to move the industry into
• Time Management
the future. Each year, National FFA selects
• Team Dynamics
a group of elite FFA members and alumni
• Conversation Skills
between the ages of 18 and 24 to attend
• Agricultural Advocacy
the New Century Farmer conference. At this
• Relevant Messaging
conference, young producers will learn from
• Effective Communication
each other and industry experts while they
• Workshop Facilitation
discuss the topics and issues that affect
• Public Speaking
today’s production agriculturist. New Century
This premier leadership training is delivered
Farmers also get out into the real world to
through a blended learning format that
explore diverse farm business operations and
includes direct instruction, social learning and
connect with business owners. New Century
experiential learning. The content is delivered
Farmers leave the conference with a vision
through a variety of media including self-
statement for their operation, which will
reflection exercises, online learning, and face-
positively shape their operations for years to
to-face instruction at events hosted in each
come.
state, in Washington, D.C., and at the National
FFA Convention & Expo.
State FFA Officer Leadership
Continuum
If you choose to expand your FFA
involvement beyond the chapter level, you

events and platforms

ffa programs,

63
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

State FFA Officer Enrichment has maintained an attendance in excess of

Programs 67,000.
The National FFA Organization offers
additional premier leadership and personal National officers preside over business
growth opportunities to state officers. sessions conducted by 475 delegates
representing their respective state
The International Leadership Seminar
associations.
for State Officers is a short-term travel
experience for current and past state officers.
The national convention and expo has been
The seminar empowers state officers by
approved by the National Association of
providing them with a global perspective.
Secondary School Principals, which allows
Through this experience, participants
students an opportunity to experience
gain knowledge by visiting farms and
education-filled programs outside of school.
agribusinesses, sharing the culture and
developing themselves as culturally aware
A wide variety of educational programs,
agriculturists.
events and activities are available at the
State officers may also serve as official national convention and expo:
delegates to the National FFA Convention • A national expo featuring universities,
& Expo. Delegates represent each state agricultural businesses and more.
regarding FFA programs, events and • National career and leadership
platforms that they would like the National development events and award
FFA Organization to take under advisement. competitions.
The purpose of the delegate process is to set • The FFA Blue Room, where agriculture,
the future direction of the organization. technology, science, and engineering
come together and students can
National FFA Convention & Expo experience the innovations of tomorrow,
The National FFA Convention & Expo is similar connect to the careers of tomorrow, and
in purpose to a state convention but is held hear from change-makers in agriculture.
on a much larger scale. The convention • National band, chorus and talent
and expo is the largest student gathering programs.
in the nation and, in most recent years, • Leadership workshops for members and
agriculture educators.
events and platforms
ffa programs,

64
• Main sessions featuring motivational • Division 5 – individual member in grades 11

recognitions
awards and
guest speakers, retiring addresses of the and 12
national officers, recognition and award • Division 6 – team of two members in
presentations to student, teacher and grades 11 and 12
chapter finalists, as well as honoring and
recognizing FFA supporters and sponsors. Categories include:
• National Days of Service, a program that • Animal Systems
helps FFA members discover the value • Environmental Services/Natural Resource
of community service and volunteering Systems
within their communities. • Food Products and Processing Systems
• Career Success Tours, which enable • Plant Systems
students to explore careers in fields as • Power, Structural and Technical Systems
they relate to agriculture. • Social Science

For many members, the National FFA For official rules, policies and resources, visit
Convention & Expo provides the inspiration FFA.org/agrisciencefair.
and motivation that leads to further
achievements in FFA. To learn more, visit FFA. Career and Leadership
org/convention. Development Events (CDEs/LDEs)
The National FFA Organization is dedicated

Awards and to organizing experiences that will meet the

future needs of students while accomplishing
Recognitions the current purposes of agricultural
education.
FFA has an extensive awards program,
implemented at all levels. Awards provide The primary goal of career and leadership
incentive for members to set goals and development events is to develop individual
work toward achieving them. The result is a college and career readiness skills through
membership dedicated to progress in their personal growth and premier leadership.
chosen areas of interest.
Individuals will be challenged to develop
Detailed information can be found at critical-thinking skills, effective decision-
FFA.org/awards. making skills, foster teamwork and promote
communication while recognizing the
Agriscience Fair value of ethical competition and individual
The National FFA Agriscience Fair recognizes achievement.
student researchers studying the application
of agricultural scientific principles and The activities in each event:
emerging technologies in agricultural • Include problem solving, critical thinking
enterprises. The agriscience fair is for middle and teamwork skills, where appropriate.
and high school students. Participation • Encourage appreciation for diversity by
begins at the local level and progresses to reducing barriers to participation among
state and national levels. members.
• Develop general leadership and recognize
Competition is open to all FFA members in individual and team achievement.
grades 7-12. There are six divisions: • Promote concentrated focus on future
• Division 1 – individual member in grades 7 needs of members and society.
and 8
• Division 2 – team of two members in National events should reflect instruction
grades 7 and 8 that currently takes place in the entire
• Division 3 – individual member in grades 9 agricultural education program, including
and 10 classroom instruction, laboratory instruction,
• Division 4 – team of two members in instruction in leadership and supervised
grades 9 and 10 agricultural experience. Events are intended
to be an outgrowth of instruction. In

65
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

addition, it is appropriate for the national • Agricultural Technology and Mechanical

organization to develop events and awards Systems
that stimulate instruction in emerging • Agronomy
areas that reflect both current and future • Dairy Cattle Evaluation and Management
community, national and global workforce –  Dairy Cattle Handlers Activity
needs. These events should be developed • Environmental and Natural Resources
recognitions
awards and

with significant input from FFA members, • Farm and Agribusiness Business
teachers, partners, respective industry Management (formerly Farm Business
sponsors and others involved in agricultural Management)
education. The National FFA Organization • Floriculture
continues to encourage accessibility and • Food Science and Technology
provide opportunities for achievement • Forestry
and recognition for students with diverse • Horse Evaluation
backgrounds. • Livestock Evaluation
• Marketing Plan
Events that include team activities should be • Meats Evaluation and Technology
based on cooperation and teamwork while • Milk Quality and Products
recognizing the value of competition and • Nursery/Landscape
individual achievement. Where appropriate, • Poultry Evaluation
team activities will be included that require • Veterinary Science
two or more members from one chapter
working cooperatively.
National FFA Leadership Development
Events
For rules and procedures and a description of
• Agricultural Issues Forum
each event, visit the CDE/LDE webpage,
• Conduct of Chapter Meetings
FFA.org/CDE.
• Creed Speaking
• Employment Skills
National FFA Career Development Events • Extemporaneous Public Speaking
• Agricultural Communications • Parliamentary Procedure
• Agricultural Sales • Prepared Public Speaking

National Chapter Award Program

The National Chapter Award Program is
designed to recognize FFA chapters that
actively implement the mission and
strategies of the organization. These chapters
improve chapter operations using the
National Quality FFA Chapter Standards
(NQCS) and a Program of Activities (POA) that
emphasizes growing leaders, building
communities and strengthening agriculture.
The FFA mission and strategies should be
used as a guide in planning, implementing
and assessing accomplishments.

National 3, 2, 1-Star Awards

On the national level, judges rate chapters
based on their applications as a three-star,
two-star or one-star. Each chapter receives
a multiyear plaque with an engraved plate,
more commonly known as a spur.

Model of Excellence
Each year, 10 high school chapters will be
chosen as Model of Excellence chapters.

66
 recognitions
awards and
These chapters exhibit exemplary qualities All national finalist chapters are bestowed
in all categories of growing leaders, building a prestigious plaque, as well as widespread
communities and strengthening agriculture. national recognition that includes publication
An overall national winner will be chosen out in the Chapter Success Guide for chapters
of the Model of Excellence chapters. Only and groups looking for best practices in
three-star high school chapters are eligible growing leaders, building communities and
for this award. strengthening agriculture.

Premier Chapter Awards

For official rules, policies and resources, visit
National FFA recognizes the top chapters
FFA.org/nationalchapter.
with innovative activities in each of the
three divisions: Growing Leaders, Building
Communities and Strengthening Agriculture.
Proficiency Awards
Members who excel in specific supervised
The top 10 chapters in each division receive
agricultural experiences can compete in
a National FFA Premier Chapter award
the proficiency award program. Proficiency
plaque. Of those top ten in each division, a
awards encourage members to develop
top premier chapter will be chosen in each
specialized skills that will apply toward
division. Only three-star chapters are eligible
a future career. Not every SAE has a
for these awards.
proficiency award area in which it can
Middle School Model of Excellence compete, and a member may have an SAE
Each year, five middle school chapters will be in which only a portion of their project(s)
chosen as Middle School Model of Excellence qualifies in a proficiency area. Carefully read
chapters. These chapters exhibit exemplary the proficiency award area descriptions to see
qualities in all categories of growing leaders, if your SAE, or parts of it, qualify in an award
building communities and strengthening area.
agriculture. Of those five chapters, a top
winner will be chosen as the National FFA Proficiency awards are presented at the local,
Middle School Model of Excellence chapter. state and national levels. Members may be
Only three-star middle school chapters are recognized for their excellence with plaques
eligible for this award. and cash awards.

67
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

A member can select from four proficiency on a national level. Nominees must have
award categories. Placement is for work or taught for a minimum of 10 years and have
experience-only SAE programs. The second at least 85 percent FFA membership in their
is Entrepreneurship for SAEs that involve agricultural education program. Recipients
ownership of an agricultural production in this category are selected on the basis of
or service enterprise. The third category is their contributions in the following seven
recognitions
awards and

Combined and is for members who have areas: classroom/laboratory instruction;

both placement and entrepreneurship experiential learning of students; National
enterprises in the same proficiency award FFA Organization; building partnerships;
area. The fourth is Agriscience Research and agricultural education program marketing;
involves planning and conducting a scientific agricultural education program development
experiment based on hypothesis and the use and evaluation; and professional
of the scientific method of investigation on development of agricultural education
the hypothesis. This may include qualitative, teachers.The deadline for online submissions
experimental, descriptive and quasi- is June 15.
experimental research.
Honorary American FFA Degree
The purpose of the Honorary American
Proficiency award areas may vary each
FFA Degree program is to recognize
year, depending on participation, changing
individuals who have rendered outstanding
definitions and sponsorship. For a complete
service to agricultural education and FFA.
list of available proficiency award areas for
Individuals nominated must have provided
the current year, visit FFA.org/proficiencies.
exceptional service to agriculture, agricultural
The Proficiency Award Handbook and the
education and/or FFA on a national level.
Agriscience Research Proficiency Award
Those nominated from a state must have
Handbook, tip sheets, videos and other
the approval of the state FFA advisor.
helpful resources for completing a proficiency
Nominations may also be made by members
award application are available online as well.
of the National FFA Board of Directors and
officers, National FFA Organization, and
SAE Grants National FFA Foundation division directors.
The SAE Grant program provides grants of
$1,000 to FFA members who need financial The Honorary American FFA Degree is the
assistance to begin or expand an SAE highest honorary degree presented by the
enterprise. The number of grants available National FFA Organization at the annual
each year varies based on sponsorship. national convention and expo. The deadline
The SAE Grant application opens online in for online submissions is June 15.
the fall. The application asks for specific
descriptions, budgets and goals for the Distinguished Service Citation
planned SAE enterprise. Financial need is The Distinguished Service Citation is the
strongly considered in the selection process highest award presented to an organization,
and is described by the applicant and their agency, business, industry or other group by
FFA advisor. All grant funds must be spent the National FFA Organization.
on the SAE; FFA advisors are required to verify
this. FFA members in grades 7-12 are eligible The purpose of the award is to recognize
to apply. Visit FFA.org/SAEgrants for more outstanding contributions made at the
information or to apply. national level to agricultural education
and FFA. States are asked to nominate
Honorary Awards organizations, agencies or other groups for the
Distinguished Service Citation. The deadline
Honorary American Degree – Teacher for online submissions is June 15.
The purpose of the Honorary American
Degree Teacher award is to recognize VIP Citation
agricultural education instructors/FFA The VIP Citation recognizes individuals who
advisors who have demonstrated total have made outstanding contributions to
program quality by using those factors that agricultural education and FFA for 20 or more
contribute to successful local programs years, on a national level. States are asked
to nominate individuals for VIP Citation.

68
This recognition may be awarded to, but member has a strong supervised agricultural

recognitions
awards and
not necessarily limited to, those individuals experience (SAE) and demonstrates a high
holding the Honorary American FFA Degree. level of leadership. Ask your chapter FFA
The deadline for online submissions is June 15. advisor how to apply.

Chapter Star Farmer

Visit FFA.org/honorary for more.
Chapter Star Farmer goes to the chapter
member who has earned the Chapter FFA
Scholarships Degree, has an outstanding entrepreneurship
Chapter members planning to further their
SAE in production agriculture and
education can apply for scholarships through
demonstrates the most involvement in all
the National FFA Organization. Scholarships
areas of the chapter’s activities. Ask your
are sponsored by businesses and individuals
chapter FFA advisor how to apply.
through the National FFA Foundation and
are awarded for a wide variety of experiences, Chapter Star in Agribusiness
career goals and higher education plans. FFA Chapter Star in Agribusiness goes to the
awards about $2 million annually. chapter member who has earned the
Chapter FFA Degree, has an outstanding
Visit FFA.org/scholarships for more nonproduction entrepreneurship SAE in
information. agriculture and demonstrates the most
involvement in all areas of the chapter’s
Star Awards activities. Ask your chapter FFA advisor how
Outstanding members at each FFA degree to apply.
level are selected as Star award winners. Chapter Star in Agricultural Placement
The rewards at each level increase starting Chapter Star in Agricultural Placement goes
with the Star Greenhand and Star Chapter to the chapter member who has earned the
awards at the chapter level to the State Star Chapter FFA Degree, has an outstanding
and American Star awards at the state and placement SAE in agribusiness or production
national levels. State and national awards agriculture, and is actively involved in all
include cash prizes. areas of the chapter. Ask your chapter FFA
Star Greenhand advisor how to apply.
Star Greenhand is given at the chapter level
to the most active first-year member. This

69
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

Chapter Star in Agriscience State Star in Agribusiness

The Chapter FFA Degree recipient selected The top State FFA Degree recipient with a
as the Chapter Star in Agriscience will have nonproduction, entrepreneurial agribusiness
an outstanding SAE in which the member SAE in each state is recognized by the state
is actively engaged in agriscience research association as the State Star in Agribusiness.
and experimentation, which meets a Your state FFA association determines the
recognitions
awards and

recognized agriculture, food and natural application process for this award.
resources pathway standard. This includes
State Star in Agricultural Placement
members who are actively engaged in doing
The State FFA Degree recipient in each state
their own research individually, as well as
with the best placement SAE and proven
those members who are cooperating on
leadership skills is selected to be the State
research projects with others, including
Star in Agricultural Placement. The member’s
but not limited to teams in school, industry
placement experience can include paid
or colleges/universities. The member must
and/or unpaid labor hours. Your state FFA
be actively involved in the development of
association sets the application method for
the experiment design, collection of data,
this award.
interpretation of the data and publicizing
the results to be considered by the local State Star in Agriscience
chapter for selection as the Chapter Star In each state, one member with an SAE in
in Agriscience. Their program can be an agriscience research and experimentation
entrepreneurship or placement type program. and receiving their State FFA Degree is
Ask your chapter FFA advisor how to apply. chosen as the State Star in Agriscience. This
includes members who are actively engaged
State Star Farmer
in research in an agriculture, food and natural
Outstanding achievement in an
resources pathway individually or members
entrepreneurship production agriculture SAE
cooperating on research projects with others,
and active participation in FFA are recognized
including but not limited to teams in school,
with the State Star Farmer award. Each year,
experiment stations or colleges/universities.
state associations select one member from
The member must be actively involved in
the top applicants for the State FFA Degree.
the development of the experiment design,
Your state FFA association determines how to
collection of data, interpretation of the data
apply for the award.
and publicizing the results to be considered
as a State Star in Agriscience. Their program

70
 recognitions
awards and
could be an entrepreneurship or placement or unpaid labor hours. Four finalists are
type program. Check with your FFA chosen from among the candidates selected
advisor to learn how to apply in your state by each state to compete at the national
association. convention and expo.

American Star Farmer American Star in Agriscience

The American FFA Degree recipient with the American FFA Degree recipients applying
top entrepreneurship, production agriculture from each state to become the American Star
SAE each year is recognized as the American in Agriscience have an SAE in which they are
Star Farmer. One candidate from each actively engaged in agriscience research and
state can apply. Four national finalists are experimentation. The project must be within
selected to compete for this honor at the a recognized agriculture, food and natural
national convention and expo. Considered resources pathway standard. One candidate
the highest recognition in the nation for an from each state—who is actively engaged in
aspiring young farmer, the award recognizes doing their own individual research or who
achievement in both career and leadership may be cooperating on research projects with
development. others including but not limited to teams
in school, experiment stations or colleges/
American Star in Agribusiness
universities—is allowed to apply. The member
Each state selects the American FFA Degree
must be actively involved in the development
recipient from their state with the best
of the experiment design, collection of data,
nonproduction entrepreneurship SAE to
interpretation of the data and publicizing
compete for selection as the American Star
the results to be considered as an American
in Agribusiness. Four national finalists are
Star in Agriscience. Their project could be an
chosen to compete for this prestigious award
entrepreneurship or placement type. Four
at the national convention and expo. This
national finalists are selected to compete at
is the highest achievement for a member
the national convention and expo.
pursuing a career in agribusiness.

American Star in Agricultural Placement For additional information about the

The American FFA Degree recipient with the American Star Awards, application tips,
best placement SAE and proven leadership scoring rubrics and how to apply, visit the
skills is selected to be the American Star American Star Awards webpage, FFA.org/
in Agricultural Placement. The member’s AmericanStar.
placement experience can include paid and/

71
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

National FFA Alumni

leadership, personal growth and career
success through agricultural education.
and Supporters
The purposes of an alumni and supporters
A major strategy of FFA is to support the chapter are to:
local program by committing resources to • Support and promote FFA, FFA activities
mobilize volunteers at all levels of agricultural and agricultural education on the local,
education and FFA. National FFA Alumni and state and national levels.
Supporters serve as an additional support • Facilitate involvement and support of
mechanism in local programs and help in former members; business, industry
planning, resource development, mentoring and community leaders; parents; school
teachers and members, creating supervised officials; and others interested in FFA and
agricultural experience development agricultural education.
• Promote and maintain an appreciation of
alumni and supporters

opportunities, and building community

support and involvement. the American free enterprise system.
• Enhance the personal and interpersonal
National FFA Alumni and Supporters is development aspect of FFA.
national ffa

part of the National FFA Organization.

Membership types include associate, annual The two long-term strategic goals of the
and life. Membership is open to anyone who alumni and supporters are to:
is interested in supporting and promoting • Have an active, fully engaged FFA Alumni
agricultural education and FFA on the local, and Supporters chapter for every FFA
state and national levels. See Article V, chapter.
Section C of the National FFA Constitution • Become leaders in advocacy for
for more. agricultural education at the local level.

The vision of National FFA Alumni and The group is focused on outreach,
Supporters is the same as the National FFA engagement and strengthening state
Organization: Students whose lives are and local alumni and supporters. Through
impacted by FFA and agricultural education resources and training, the national level
will achieve academic and personal growth, strives to educate, motivate and enable
strengthen American agriculture and provide volunteers at all levels to support and
leadership to build healthy local communities, advocate for FFA and agricultural education.
a strong nation and a sustainable world.
Knowing that not everyone can attend the
The mission is also the same as the annual national events, National FFA hosts
National FFA Organization: To make a regional development conferences for
positive difference in the lives of students alumni and supporters. These conferences
by developing their potential for premier engage individual members, local and state
alumni and supporter
leaders, agriculture
educators and others.
The conference allows
for networking and
socializing with fellow
alumni and supporters;
idea sharing; learning
and training in areas of
advocacy, leadership,
affiliate business
operations; and more.

The National FFA

Alumni and Supporters
Advisory Committee,

72
at the request of the National FFA Board of composed of key donors, volunteers, and
Directors, advises the direction of the alumni corporate representatives and provides
and supporters. For more information visit overall guidance on the foundation’s
FFA.org/alumni. fundraising activities, including major gifts,
annual gifts, and deferred gifts. The National

National FFA FFA Foundation Sponsors’ Board is composed

of representatives from some of our strongest
Foundation corporate partners and serves to engage
these partners in FFA programs and events.
The National FFA Foundation secures funding Together, these groups drive an annual
and partnerships that help FFA members campaign that generates more than $20
develop their potential for premier leadership, million in contributions for national, state and
personal growth, and career success through local programs.
agricultural education. Donors make
possible award and recognition programs, FFA members can ensure continued support
scholarships, local engagement activities, from the foundation by sending a note of
global engagement programs, National FFA thanks to sponsors and donors. Those who
Convention & Expo functions, educational receive awards or participate in foundation-
materials, teacher training, and more. funded programs can obtain names and
addresses of the appropriate contact for
Created in 1944, the foundation brings each sponsor or donor. All FFA members
together companies, organizations, and and advisors can send notes of thanks for
individuals to raise money for essential FFA any activity. After graduation, members have
programs and activities. Since that time, an opportunity to give back and continue
supporting the work of FFA by becoming

foundation
national ffa
foundation supporters have contributed
more than $300 million on behalf of FFA and individual donors to the foundation and
to support the work of other agricultural through membership in National FFA Alumni
education organizations. and Supporters.

The foundation is governed by a board of National FFA Foundation

trustees that includes the national FFA 6060 FFA Drive
president, educators, business leaders Indianapolis, IN 46268
and individual donors. The National FFA FFA.org/donate
Foundation President’s Advisory Council is

73
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

National FFA
events as a service to state and local
agricultural education agencies.

Constitution 4. To seek and promote inclusion and

diversity in its membership, leadership
and staff to reflect the corporation’s
(As amended at the 92nd National FFA
belief in the value of all human beings.
Convention, October 2019 and ratified by the
5. To create, foster and assist subsidiary
National FFA Board of Directors, Nov. 11, 2019.)
chapters in state- or territory-approved
agricultural educational programs and
Article I. Name associations of those chapters in the
The Future Farmers of America organization states, territories, and possessions of the
shall be known and shall do business as United States.
the National FFA Organization. Recognized 6. To build character and develop
units of the organization may officially use competent and assertive agricultural
the letters “FFA” and/or the words “Future leadership.
Farmers of America” to designate the 7. To increase awareness of the global and
organization, its units and/or members. technological importance of agriculture,
food and natural resources and its
contribution to our well-being.
Article II. Objectives of the
8. To promote the intelligent choice and
Organization establishment of a career in agriculture,
The objectives of the organization shall be
food and natural resources.
consistent with the organization’s federal
9. To make available to state associations,
charter, Public Law 116-7 (formerly Public
local chapters and members all official
Laws 105-225 and 81-740). The organization
supplies, equipment, programs and
shall cooperate with national and state
services of the corporation.
government agencies and officials in career
10. To cooperate with others, including
and technical education to accomplish the
state boards and officials for career and
following objectives:
technical education, in accomplishing
the foregoing purposes.
1. To be an integral component of
11. To engage in other activities, consistent
instruction in agricultural education,
with these purposes, determined by
including without limitation, agriculture,
the governing body to be for the best
food, and natural resources. As such,
interests of the corporation.
the corporation shall be intra-curricular
to the agricultural education program,
Article III. Organization
and will work with contextual classroom/
laboratory instruction and work-based Section A
experiential learning in furtherance The National FFA Organization is the
of a complete and comprehensive organization of, by and for students enrolled
agricultural education program. in agricultural education programs. It shall
2. To be an integral component in consist of chartered state associations
agricultural education, to prepare composed of not less than four chapters
national ffa

students for successful entry into chartered by a state association and having
productive careers in agriculture, food a total student membership of not less than
policies

and natural resources, or connect 125 members. In the event a state association
students to relevant postsecondary falls below the 125 members and four
educational pathways, focusing on the chapters, it shall remain as a chartered state
complete delivery of classroom and association of the National FFA Organization.
laboratory instruction, work-based More than one chapter may be chartered in
experiential learning and leadership a school when deemed appropriate by the
development. state governing body.
3. To be a resource and support
Section B
organization that does not select, control
Chapters of the National FFA Organization
or supervise state association, local
shall be chartered only in such schools
chapter or individual member activities.
where recognized systematic instruction in
The corporation will develop educational
agricultural education is offered under the
materials, programs, services and
provisions of federal vocational education

74
legislation. Such chapters shall operate as an National FFA Organization or shown by
integral part of the instructional program of postmark or other reliable evidence to
agricultural education. have been mailed to the national FFA
treasurer on or before May 15.
Schools with large enrollments and/or
2. All reports have been submitted to the
multiple programs in agricultural education
national organization as requested by
may establish subsidiary chapters of the
the National FFA Board of Directors.
parent chapter. Each subsidiary chapter shall
3. Provisions of the state FFA constitution
be organized and operated in accordance
do not conflict with the National FFA
with all the provisions of the national, state
Constitution and association activities
and local constitutions. Subsidiary chapters
are in harmony with the ideals
shall be coordinated by the officers and
and purposes of the National FFA
advisors of the parent chapter.
Organization.
Section C
The National FFA Board of Directors shall
Students enrolled in agricultural education
have the power to suspend the charter of any
may meet in state convention, adopt a
policies
national ffa

state association which violates the National

constitution which shall not conflict with
FFA Constitution and Bylaws. A report of all
that of the national organization, elect
suspensions shall be presented by the Board
officers, develop a Program of Activities and
to the delegates at the next succeeding
apply to the national organization for a state
national convention. In the event a state
association charter. Upon receipt of a charter
association is not in good standing at the
from the national organization, the state
time of the opening of a national convention,
association shall be part of the National FFA
the delegates in session at that national
Organization and shall be empowered to
convention shall have the power, upon
charter local chapters.
recommendation of the National FFA Board
of Directors, to withdraw the charter and
Article IV. Procedures for refuse such association official representation
Determining Standing of State at the annual national convention. When
Associations and Chapters such action is taken, the association in
Section A question and the chapters and members
A state FFA association shall be in good thereof shall be denied the privileges of
standing with the National FFA Organization membership in the organization. Upon
when the following conditions are met: meeting the requirements for good standing,
1. All annual national dues or program a state association may be reinstated by
affiliation fees have been paid to the action of the National FFA Board of Directors.

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 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

Section B Section B
A chapter shall be in good standing with Student Membership - To be eligible for
the state association when the following membership in a chartered FFA chapter,
conditions are met: a student must be enrolled in a secondary
1. All annual, state and national dues or agricultural education program. State
program affiliation fees have been paid associations may consider “secondary
by the date determined by the state agricultural education programs” to be
association. grades 7-12.
2. All reports have been submitted as
To become a student member and retain
requested by the state association.
membership, a student must:
3. Provisions of the chapter constitution
1. While in school, be enrolled in at least
do not conflict with the State or
one agricultural education course
National FFA Constitutions and chapter
during the school year and/or follow a
activities are in harmony with the
planned course of study; either course
ideals and purposes of the National FFA
must include a supervised agricultural
Organization.
experience program, the objective of
The governing body of the state association which is preparation for an agricultural
shall have the power to suspend the charter career.
of any chapter which violates the state or 2. Show an interest in the affairs of the
National FFA Constitution and Bylaws. A organization by attending meetings,
report on all suspensions shall be presented striving for degrees of membership and
to the delegates at the next succeeding state participating in other organized activities
convention. In the event a chapter is not in of the chapter.
good standing with the state association 3. Pay all current state and national dues
at the time of the opening of a state or program affiliation fee by the date
convention, the delegates in session at that determined by the chapter.
state convention shall have the power, upon 4. Display conduct consistent with the
recommendation of the state association ideals and purposes of the National FFA
governing body, to withdraw the charter and Organization.
refuse such chapter official representation
A member may retain student membership
at the state convention. When such action is
until November 30, following the fourth
taken, the chapter in question and members
National FFA Convention after graduation
thereof shall be denied the privileges of
from high school.
membership in the state association. Upon
meeting the requirements for good standing, A member in good standing at the time
a chapter may be reinstated by action of the of induction into the armed forces of the
state association governing body. United States of America or into the FFA
international program shall be in good
In the event a local department of
standing during the period of active
agricultural education is discontinued, its
service without further payment of dues
chartered FFA chapter may officially operate
or attendance at meetings. Time spent
for a period not to exceed three years (36
in the armed forces or FFA international
months) from the date of discontinuance,
program shall not be considered as elapsed
national ffa

provided proper supervision is given by a

time in determining the maximum period
person having the approval of the local school
policies

of four conventions following graduation

administrator and the state FFA advisor. The
from high school or leaving high school.
chapter’s charter must be surrendered to
Members using this waiver of service time
the state advisor at the end of the three-year
for the purpose of maintaining student
period if a local department of agricultural
membership for application for advanced
education is not in operation in the school at
degrees of membership must resume active
that time.
participation within six months after having
been honorably discharged from military
Article V. Membership service or completing their FFA international
Section A program and indicate such a desire by
Membership in the National FFA Organization paying dues and attending meetings.
shall be of two types: student and adult. Members participating in a six-month armed
services program or participating in the

76
FFA international program for six months 1. Be enrolled in agricultural education and
shall be eligible for one full year of extended have satisfactory plans for a supervised
membership. No individual may retain agricultural experience program.
student membership beyond his or her 2. Learn and explain the FFA Creed, motto,
twenty-third birthday. salute and FFA mission statement.
3. Describe and explain the meaning of the
Section C
FFA emblem and colors.
Adult Membership - Membership shall
4. Demonstrate a knowledge of the FFA
be open to former student members and
Code of Ethics and the proper use of the
honorary degree recipients, present and
FFA jacket.
former professional agricultural educators,
5. Demonstrate a knowledge of the
parents of FFA members and others
history of the organization, the chapter
interested in and supportive of the FFA.
constitution and bylaws and the chapter
Program of Activities.
Article VI. Degrees and Privileges 6. Personally own or have access to the
of Membership Official FFA Manual and the FFA Student
Section A Handbook.
There shall be five degrees of student 7. Submit written application for the
membership based on individual Greenhand FFA Degree.
achievement. These are the Discovery Section D
FFA Degree, Greenhand FFA Degree, Chapter FFA Degree - To be eligible to receive
the Chapter FFA Degree, the State FFA the Chapter FFA Degree from the chapter,
Degree and the American FFA Degree. The the member must meet the following
national organization shall set the minimum minimum qualifications:
qualifications for each degree. The Discovery 1. Must have received the Greenhand FFA
FFA Degree is intended for use in state Degree.
associations and local chapters where middle 2. Must have satisfactorily completed
school membership is offered. Receipt of this the equivalent of at least 180 hours
degree is not necessary in order to obtain of systematic school instruction in
the Greenhand FFA Degree or subsequent agricultural education at or above the
degrees. ninth grade level, have in operation
Section B an approved supervised agricultural
Discovery FFA Degree - To be eligible to experience program and be enrolled in
receive the Discovery FFA Degree from an agricultural education course.
a chapter, the member must meet the 3. Have participated in the planning and
following minimum requirements: conducting of at least three official
1. Be enrolled in agricultural education functions in the chapter Program of
policies
national ffa

class for at least a portion of the school Activities.

year while in grades 7-8. 4. A student after entering agricultural
2. Have become a dues paying member or education must have:
included in the program affiliation fee of a. earned and productively invested
the FFA at local, state and national levels. at least $150 by the member’s own
3. Participate in at least one local FFA efforts; or
chapter activity outside of scheduled b. worked at least 45 hours in excess of
class time. scheduled class time; or
4. Have knowledge of agriculturally related c. a combination there of and have
career, ownership and entrepreneurial developed plans for continued
opportunities. growth and improvement in a
5. Be familiar with the local FFA chapter supervised agricultural experience
program of activities. program.
6. Submit written application for the 5. Have effectively led a group discussion
degree. for 15 minutes.
6. Have demonstrated five procedures of
Section C parliamentary law.
Greenhand FFA Degree - To be eligible to 7. Show progress toward individual
receive the Greenhand FFA Degree from achievement in the FFA award programs.
the chapter, the member must meet the 8. Have a satisfactory scholastic record.
following minimum qualifications:

77
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

9. Have participated in at least 10 hours

of community service activities. These
hours are in addition to and cannot be
duplicated as paid or unpaid SAE hours.
10. Submit a written application for the
Chapter FFA Degree.

Other requirements may be established by

the chapter and/or the state FFA association.

Section E
State FFA Degree - To be eligible to receive
the State FFA Degree from the state
association, the member must meet the
following minimum qualifications:
1. Have received the Chapter FFA Degree.
2. Have been a student FFA member and
paid membership dues for two years
at the time of receiving the State FFA
Degree.
3. While in school, have completed the
equivalent of at least two years (360
hours) of systematic school instruction
in agricultural education at or above
the ninth grade level, which includes
a supervised agricultural experience
program.
The percentage of the total state
4. A student after entering agricultural
membership which may receive the State
education must have:
FFA Degree and other requirements may be
a. earned and productively invested at
established by the state FFA association.
least $1000; or
b. worked at least 300 hours in excess of Written records of achievement of all
scheduled class time; or requirements, verified by the chapter FFA
c. a combination there of, in a advisor, shall be submitted to the state
supervised agricultural experience association at least one month prior to the
program. state FFA convention at which the State FFA
5. Demonstrate leadership ability by: Degree is to be received. The state advisor
a. Performing 10 procedures of shall provide for review of the records and
parliamentary law. submit a recommendation to the state
b. Giving a six-minute speech on a topic association governing body, which shall
relating to agriculture or the FFA. nominate at the state FFA convention the
c. Serving as an officer, committee candidates who have been found worthy to
chairperson or participating member receive the honor. The State FFA Degree will
of a chapter committee. be conferred upon the candidates subject
national ffa

6. Have a satisfactory scholastic record to approval by the delegates at the state

as certified by the local agricultural convention.
policies

education instructor and the principal or

Section F
superintendent.
American FFA Degree - To be eligible to
7. Have participated in the planning and
receive the American FFA Degree from the
completion of the chapter Program of
National FFA Organization, the member must
Activities.
meet the following minimum qualifications:
8. Have participated in at least five different
1. Have received the State FFA Degree,
FFA activities above the chapter level.
have been a student member for the
9. Have participated in at least 25 hours of
past three years (36 months) and have a
community service, within at least two
record of satisfactory participation in the
different community service activities.
activities on the chapter and state levels.
These hours are in addition to and
2. Have satisfactorily completed the
cannot be duplicated as paid or unpaid
equivalent of at least three years (540
SAE hours.

78
 hours) of systematic secondary school are helping to advance agricultural education
instruction in an agricultural education and the FFA and who have rendered
program or to have completed at outstanding service, may be elected to
least the equivalent of 360 hours of receive an Honorary FFA Degree by a majority
systematic secondary school instruction vote of the members present at any regular
in agricultural education and one full meeting or convention.
year of enrollment in a postsecondary
The Honorary FFA Degree shall be limited to
agricultural program or have completed
the Honorary Chapter FFA Degree in the local
the program of agricultural education
chapter, Honorary State FFA Degree in the
offered in the secondary school last
state association and the Honorary American
attended.
FFA Degree in the national organization.
3. Have graduated from high school at
All Honorary FFA Degree recipients will be
least 12 months prior to the national
considered alumni/adult members as part of
convention at which the degree is to be
their Honorary FFA Degree.
granted.
4. Have in operation and have maintained
Article VII. Procedure for Selecting
records to substantiate an outstanding
supervised agricultural experience American FFA Degree Recipients
program through which a member has Section A
exhibited comprehensive planning, Applications for the degree must be approved
managerial and financial expertise. by the state advisor or representative(s)
5. A student after entering agricultural thereof and be received by the national
education must have: organization not later than midnight of June
a. earned at least $10,000 and 30 or show by postmark or other reliable
productively invested at least $7,500; evidence to have been mailed to the national
or organization on or before June 15, prior to the
b. earned and productively invested national convention at which the degree is to
$2,000 and worked 2,250 hours in be received.
excess of scheduled class time. Any
combination of hours, times a factor Section B
of 3.56, plus actual dollars earned Applications must be submitted on the
and productively invested must be official form provided by the National FFA
equal to or greater than the number Organization.
10,000. Hours used for the purpose Section C
of producing earnings reported as The National FFA Board of Directors shall
productively invested income shall review the American FFA Degree applications
not be duplicated as hours of credit and recommend those candidates meeting
to meet the minimum requirements the minimum qualifications. Final approval
policies
national ffa

for the degree. of the candidates shall be given by the

6. Have a record of outstanding delegates present at the National FFA
leadership abilities and community Convention.
involvement and have achieved a
high school scholastic record of “C” or Article VIII. Emblem
better as certified by the principal or
superintendent. Section A
7. Have participated in at least 50 hours of The official emblem of the National FFA
community service, within at least three Organization shall include five symbols,
different community service activities. namely: the plow, representing labor and
These hours are in addition to and tillage of the soil; the owl, representing
cannot be duplicated as paid or unpaid wisdom; the rising sun, representing
SAE hours. progress; a cross-section of an ear of corn,
representing common agricultural interests;
Section G and an American eagle surmounting the
Honorary FFA Degree - Farmers, school cross-section of the ear of corn, representing
superintendents, principals, members of the national scope of the organization. The
boards of education, chapter advisors, emblem shall also include the letters “FFA”
teachers, staff members in agricultural and the words “Agricultural Education.”
education, business people and others who

79
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

Section B Section D
The emblem shall be uniform in all state The national officers shall hold the American
associations and recognized units thereof. FFA Degree at the time of their election and
All members shall be entitled to display the must be student members for the duration
emblem. of their term in office. They shall be elected
annually by a majority vote of the delegates
Section C
assembled at the national convention. A
Greenhand FFA Degree recipients shall be
member cannot hold a national office and a
entitled to wear the official bronze emblem
state office at the same time.
pin; Chapter FFA Degree recipients shall be
entitled to wear the official silver emblem pin; Section E
State FFA Degree recipients shall be entitled A nominating committee consisting of nine
to wear the official gold emblem charm; and official national convention delegates—one
American FFA Degree recipients shall be chairperson selected at large and two from
entitled to wear the official gold emblem key. each of the four regions—shall study and
review the qualifications of each eligible
Section D
candidate. This committee shall submit its
Honorary Chapter FFA Degree recipients shall
nominations to the delegates assembled at
be entitled to wear either the official silver or
the national convention.
gold emblem pin; Honorary State FFA Degree
recipients shall be entitled to wear the official Section F
gold emblem charm; and Honorary American The president and the secretary shall be
FFA Degree recipients shall be entitled to elected from the candidates at large. The
wear the official gold emblem key. position of the vice presidents shall follow a
four-year rotational cycle. The region from
Section E
which the second vice president is elected
FFA advisors shall be entitled to wear the
during the current year shall be entitled to
official gold owl pin.
the first vice president the next succeeding
year and so on for the other offices.
Article IX. National Officers and
Procedures for Election Section G
National FFA Officers shall serve from
Section A one national convention through the next
The elected officers of the National FFA succeeding national convention and shall
Organization shall be a president, four vice not be re-elected, nor eligible for election
presidents (one from each of four regions of to another national office. In the event a
the United States established in the bylaws) national convention is not held in any given
and a secretary. year, the National FFA Board of Directors
Section B shall make provisions for the appointment
The elected officers shall constitute the board of national officers for the next succeeding
of student officers. It shall be the duty of this year. The National FFA Board of Directors
board to advise and make recommendations shall have the power to appoint a qualified
to the National FFA Board of Directors with member to fill any office which becomes
respect to the activities and business of the vacant between national conventions.
national ffa

organization.
Article X. State and Chapter
policies

Section C
Officers
A state FFA association may recommend
one candidate for national office each year. Section A
The state’s candidate shall be approved The officers of the state FFA associations
by the state advisor on a nomination form shall be: president, vice president, secretary,
submitted to the national executive secretary treasurer, reporter and sentinel. Other officers
on or before August 1. All candidates shall may be elected as deemed appropriate by
be notified as to their eligibility on or before the state advisor and/or state FFA governing
August 15. Those declared ineligible may body. The state supervisor of agricultural
file an appeal with the national advisor not education shall be the state FFA advisor.
later than September 1. The FFA Governing An executive secretary, executive treasurer,
Committee shall vote on any appeal and executive secretary-treasurer and/or other
formally notify the candidate of their decision state FFA officials may be named by the state
no later than September 15. advisor subject to the approval of the state

80
FFA governing body. All state FFA officers achievements of FFA members and chapters.
shall be elected annually by a majority vote The time and place of the convention shall
of the delegates present at any regular be determined by the National FFA Board of
convention of the state association. Directors.

Section B Section B
The officers of an FFA chapter shall be: At the national convention an official
president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, delegate assembly limited to 475 delegates
reporter and sentinel. Other officers may will convene. This delegate body will consist
be elected as deemed appropriate by the of two official delegates from each state
local advisor and/or governing body. The association to be designated as chair and vice
teacher(s) of agricultural education shall be chair of the state delegation, plus additional
the FFA advisor(s). Chapter officers shall be official delegates based on the individual
elected annually or semi-annually by the state association’s percentage of national FFA
members present at any regular meeting of membership. The delegates shall be selected
the chapter. by the state FFA association. A quorum shall
exist when both the following conditions
Section C
are met at the time business is conducted: a
If a state association has been chartered for
majority of the official delegates registered
two years or more, all state officers shall have
at the national convention are present and
attained the State FFA Degree. If a chapter
at least 26 state associations are represented
has been chartered for two years or more,
by official delegates. Business items shall
all chapter officers shall have attained the
only be considered when approved by a
Chapter FFA Degree.
delegate committee or by a two-thirds vote
of the delegate body, except for proposed
Article XI. Meetings and amendments to the constitution and bylaws
Conventions meeting the requirements outlined in Article
Section A XVI.
Except in case of an extreme emergency Section C
declared by the National FFA Board of Except in case of extreme emergency, a
Directors, a convention of the National FFA convention of the state FFA association
Organization shall be held annually. The shall be held annually prior to the national
purpose of the national convention shall convention at a time and place to be
be to conduct the business of the national determined by the governing body of the
organization and to recognize outstanding state FFA association. The state association
shall determine the number and method of
selection of delegates to the state convention.
policies
national ffa

Article XII. Committees

Section A
Governing Committee - The National FFA
Board Chair and National Advisor, National
FFA Executive Secretary, and National FFA
Treasurer shall constitute the Governing
Committee and shall have the power to
deal with items of business of the national
organization between the meetings of
the National FFA Board of Directors. The
National FFA Board of Directors may appoint
additional individuals to the Governing
Committee, so long as such individuals
are members of the National FFA Board of
Directors. Additionally, the National FFA
President and National FFA Chief Executive
Officer may be extended an invitation
by the National FFA Board Chair to serve
as ex-officio, non-voting members of the

81
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

Governing Committee. All official actions of agricultural education, the FFA, or

the Governing Committee shall be reported career and technical education.
and ratified to the National FFA Board of b. One (1) National Council
Directors at the next regular board meeting. for Agricultural Education
Representative.
Section B
c. Four (4) Agricultural Education State
Standing Committees - In addition to the
Staff.
Governing Committee, there shall be three
d. Two (2) Agricultural Education
additional standing committees for the
Teacher Educators.
National FFA Organization:
e. Two (2) Agricultural Education
1. The National FFA Officer Nominating
Teachers/Chapter FFA Advisors.
Committee, appointed by the National
f. One (1) Agricultural Business and
FFA President, shall place in nomination
Industry Representative.
the candidates for the Board of Student
g. The National FFA Executive Secretary.
Officers.
h. The National FFA Treasurer.
2. The Finance Committee shall review
2. Board member qualifications, terms of
FFA’s financial statements and the
office, and method of selection shall be
auditors’ report(s) on all FFA financial
prescribed in the National FFA Bylaws.
accounts. The Finance Committee shall
3. The National FFA Board of Directors shall
consist of the National FFA Treasurer,
meet at least once per year at such time
who shall serve as the Committee
and place as prescribed by the Board.
Chair, and two additional voting board
members, as determined by the Board Section B
of Directors. The Finance Committee Governing Committee – The chairperson and
shall work collaboratively with the two members of the National FFA Board of
Finance Committee of the National FFA Directors shall be designated by the board
Foundation, Inc. The National FFA Chief to serve as the Governing Committee and
Financial Officer (CFO) shall serve as an shall have the power to deal with items of
ex-officio, non-voting member on the business of the national organization. All
Finance Committee. official actions of the Governing Committee
3. Board Nominating Committee - The shall be reported to the National FFA Board
National FFA Board Chair, three voting of Directors.
board members appointed by the
National FFA Board, and one National Article XIV. Dues
FFA Student Officer appointed by the
Section A
Board of Student Officers, shall serve
Annual membership dues and program
on the Board Nominating Committee.
affiliation fees of the National FFA
The Board Nominating Committee, as
Organization shall be established by a
appropriate, shall evaluate and make
majority vote of the delegates at the national
recommendations to the Board of
convention. In the event the annual national
Directors regarding individuals to serve
convention is not held and/or the official
on the Board of Directors and as Officers
delegates fail to set dues and program
of FFA.
affiliation fees, the annual membership dues
national ffa

4. The Board of Directors may authorize

and program affiliation fees of the national
additional committees for the National
policies

organization will remain the same as the

FFA Organization, as the Board deems
previous year. The National FFA Board of
necessary and appropriate.
Directors shall submit its recommendation
concerning dues and program affiliation fees
Article XIII. National Board of
to each state association at least 45 days prior
Directors to the National FFA Convention.
Section A
Section B
1. The National FFA Board of Directors
The membership year of the National FFA
shall be the governing body of the
Organization shall be from August 1 to July 31.
organization. The Board of Directors
shall consist of: Section C
a. The United States Secretary of Annual membership dues and program
Education, or the Secretary’s affiliation fees of a state FFA association
designee who has experience in shall be established by a majority vote of

82
 National FFA
the delegates present at the state FFA
convention.

Section D Organization Bylaws

The annual membership dues and
program affiliation fees of a chapter shall (As amended at the 92nd National FFA
be established by a majority vote of the Convention, October 2019 and ratified by the
members at a regular chapter meeting. National FFA Board of Directors, Nov. 11, 2019.)

Article XV. Parliamentary ARTICLE I. RELATIONSHIP TO THE

Authority CONSTITUTION
The rules contained in the current edition The bylaws shall be a part of the Constitution
of Robert’s Rules of Order, Newly Revised of the National FFA Organization.
shall govern the National FFA Organization
in all cases to which they are applicable ARTICLE II. HEADQUARTERS AND
and in which they are not inconsistent with
PRINCIPAL OFFICE
this constitution and bylaws, any special
The headquarters and principal office of
rules of order the National FFA Organization
the National FFA Organization shall be
may adopt and any statutes applicable to
the National FFA Center, 6060 FFA Drive,
this organization that do not authorize the
Indianapolis, Indiana 46268.
provisions of this constitution and bylaws to
take precedence.
ARTICLE III. PROCEDURE FOR
Article XVI. Amendments ELECTING MEMBERS OF THE
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Section A
Proposed amendments to the National FFA Section A
Constitution and Bylaws may be submitted The Board of Directors, in accordance with
by a state FFA association, the board of the FFA Charter and Constitution, shall be
student officers or the National FFA Board made up of the following individuals:
of Directors. Proposed amendments from 1. The United States Secretary of Education,
a state FFA association must be submitted or the Secretary’s designee who has
in writing to the national organization by experience in agricultural education, the
January 1 for review by the National FFA FFA, or career and technical education.
Board of Directors. All proposed amendments Educational experience shall be defined
to the National FFA Constitution and Bylaws as at least three years of teaching
must be submitted by the national advisor agricultural education and having served
to the state FFA associations by March 1. either (a) as an FFA Chapter and/or State
The board of student officers shall present FFA Advisor, and/or (b) as State FFA
policies
national ffa

their recommendations concerning each Executive Secretary or State Agricultural

amendment to the delegates at the national Education staff.
convention. 2. One individual shall be appointed by
the National Council for Agricultural
Section B Education.
An amendment to the National FFA 3. Four individuals shall be appointed by
Constitution may be adopted by a two- the National Association of Supervisors
thirds vote of the official delegates at the of Agricultural Education (NASAE), each
National FFA Convention. An amendment of which shall be on the agricultural
to the bylaws shall require a majority vote education state staff with expertise and
of the official delegates at the National FFA job duties in agricultural education and/
Convention. or FFA, and each individual shall be from
Section C a different FFA region (as defined in
Amendments to the bylaws must not conflict Section B).
with the National FFA Constitution. 4. Two individuals that are agricultural
education teacher educators shall be
appointed by the American Association
of Agricultural Educators (AAAE).
5. Two individuals that are active
agricultural education teachers

83
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

and chapter FFA advisors shall be Eastern Region

appointed by the National Association of Connecticut
Agricultural Educators (NAAE). Delaware
6. One individual that represents Illinois
agricultural business and industry, which Indiana
shall be vetted by the Board Nominating Kentucky
Committee and approved by the Maine
National FFA Board of Directors. Maryland
7. The National FFA Executive Secretary. Massachusetts
(See Bylaws Article VI. B regarding Michigan
election.) New Hampshire
8. The National FFA Treasurer. (See Bylaws New Jersey
Article VI. C regarding election.) New York
Ohio
Section B
Pennsylvania
The four regions of the National FFA
Rhode Island
Organization shall be:
Vermont
Western Region Virginia
Alaska West Virginia
Arizona
Section C
California
1. The term of service for the elected
Guam
members of the National FFA Board of
Hawaii
Directors shall begin on January 1 and
Idaho
continue for a three-year period.
Nevada
2. Board terms shall expire in rotation with
New Mexico
the total number of board members
Oregon
divided by 3.
Texas
3. With approximately one third of the
Utah
board members terms expiring each
Washington
year. To the extent possible, two
Southern Region selected representatives from the same
Alabama organization will be staggered so they
Arkansas will not expire the same year.
Florida
Section D
Georgia
Each organization that appoints an individual
Louisiana
or individuals to the National FFA Board
Mississippi
of Directors shall have another individual
North Carolina
selected, identified and shared with the
Puerto Rico
National FFA Advisor and Board Chair for
South Carolina
each appointed Board seat (an “Alternate
Tennessee
Director”). In the event a board member
Virgin Islands
vacates a position on the National FFA Board
national ffa

Central Region of Directors, the Alternate Director shall fill

Colorado the vacated seat for the remainder of the
policies

Iowa vacated term. To the extent that there is a

Kansas vacancy for a board member that is elected
Minnesota by the National FFA Board of Directors, the
Montana vacancy shall by filled by an affirmative vote
Missouri of the National FFA Board of Directors after
Nebraska having been vetted by the Board Nominating
North Dakota Committee.
Oklahoma
South Dakota
Wisconsin
Wyoming

84
ARTICLE IV. NATIONAL FFA 1. The United States Secretary of Education,
BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETINGS or the Secretary’s designee that serves
on the Board of Directors, shall serve
Section A as the Board Chair and National FFA
The meetings of the National FFA Board of Advisor if such individual has at least
Directors shall be held at such place and time three years of teaching agricultural
as prescribed by the board. education and has served either (a)
Section B as an FFA Chapter and/or State FFA
Special meetings of the board may be called Advisor, and/or (b) as State FFA Executive
by the chairperson. Secretary or State Agricultural Education
staff.
Section C 2. If 1. is not satisfied or the individual
Notice of meetings shall be given to each otherwise chooses not to serve as the
member of the board not less than 30 days Board Chair and National FFA Advisor,
prior to any regular meeting and not less then the individual that has been
than five days prior to any special meeting. appointed by the National Council for
Agricultural Education to serve on the
ARTICLE V. DUTIES OF NATIONAL Board of Directors shall serve as the
OFFICERS Board Chair and National FFA Advisor,
so long as the individual has agricultural
Section A
education teaching and/or FFA
President—It shall be the duty of the
programming experience.
president to preside over the national
3. To the extent that the Board Chair and
convention and meetings of the national
National FFA Advisor is not otherwise
officers. The president shall call one national
filled, the National FFA Board of
convention each year. The president shall
Directors shall elect an individual that is
appoint all committees and may serve as an
on the National FFA Board of Directors
ex-officio member of these committees.
to serve in such a role, so long as the
Section B individual has agricultural education
Vice Presidents—It shall be the duty of each teaching and/or FFA programming
vice president to represent the membership experience.
of the National FFA Organization. Should the
Duties. It shall be the duty of the Board Chair
office of president become vacant, the first
and National FFA Advisor to:
vice president shall assume the duties of the
1. Serve as chairperson of the National FFA
president, followed in turn by the second,
Board of Directors.
third and fourth vice presidents.
2. Advise the National FFA Officers, Board
Section C of Directors, delegates and committees
policies
national ffa

Secretary—It shall be the duty of the on matters of policy and assist the
secretary to keep minutes of the meetings officers in conducting meetings and
of the National FFA Officers and the national carrying out programs.
convention, and perform other duties as 3. Serve as an ex-officio member of all
directed by the National FFA Board of committees.
Directors and/or the national executive 4. Provide for the review of all applications
secretary. for the American FFA Degree and submit
them in turn to the National FFA Board
ARTICLE VI. ELECTION AND of Directors for approval.
DUTIES OF THE BOARD CHAIR, 5. Perform such other duties as directed by
the National FFA Board of Directors.
NATIONAL FFA ADVISOR,
EXECUTIVE SECRETARY AND Section B
TREASURER National Executive Secretary - Election.
The National Executive Secretary shall be a
Section A
member of NASAE, NAAE or AAAE, vetted
Board Chair and National FFA Advisor -
by the Board Nominating Committee and
Election. One individual shall serve as the
approved by the National FFA Board of
Board Chair and the National FFA Advisor.
Directors.
The Board Chair and FFA Advisor shall be
determined in the following manner:

85
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

Duties. It shall be the duty of the National Section C

Executive Secretary to: National Treasurer - Election. The National
1. Issue charters to state associations when Treasurer shall be an employee or member
directed to do so by the National FFA of a state agency that directs or supervises a
Board of Directors. state program of agricultural education under
2. Keep official records of members and the provisions of federal career and technical
the progress of the organization. education legislation, vetted by the Board
3. Review all reports from state Nominating Committee and approved by the
associations and inform the National FFA National FFA Board of Directors.
Board of Directors of any proceedings
Duties. It shall be the duty of the National
which conflict with the provisions of the
Treasurer to:
National FFA Constitution.
1. Be responsible for the financial assets
4. Provide for complete and accurate
of the organization except as otherwise
minutes of the meetings of the National
directed by the National FFA Board of
FFA Board of Directors, the Governing
Directors.
national ffa

Committee, and any other committee

2. Present an annual financial report to the
affecting the national organization,
policies

National FFA Board of Directors, National

and furnish copies to members of the
FFA Officers, and official delegates at the
National FFA Board of Directors.
national convention.
5. Keep a record of all officers of the
3. Perform such other duties as may be
national organization and their terms
prescribed by the National FFA Board of
of office, and of all official national
Directors.
convention delegates.
6. Arrange for the annual national
convention. ARTICLE VII. THE FISCAL YEAR
7. Perform such other duties as directed by The fiscal year of the Organization shall be
the National FFA Board of Directors and/ January 1 through December 31.
or the National Advisor.

86
ARTICLE VIII. PROCEDURES FOR 225. In 2019, the 116th Congress reviewed and
ISSUING CHARTERS TO STATE passed additional amendments to the FFA
Federal Charter as Public Law 116-7.
ASSOCIATIONS AND CHAPTERS
Section A The text below reflects the FFA Federal
Prospective state FFA associations shall apply Charter (36 USC Ch. 709) following the
to the national organization for a charter. The amendments provided in Public Law 105-225
application shall be signed by the president, and Public Law 116-7.
secretary and advisor of the prospective state
association. The following materials shall ---
accompany the application:
1. A copy of the proposed constitution and 36 U.S. Code Chapter 709 -
bylaws. FUTURE FARMERS OF AMERICA
2. A copy of the state FFA Program of
Activities. 36 U.S.C. § 70901.  Organization.
3. A complete list of local chapters, (a) Federal Charter.—
including the name and address of each Future Farmers of America (in this
member. chapter, the “FFA”) is a federally
4. The name and address of each chartered corporation.
association officer. (b) Perpetual Existence.—
Except as otherwise provided, the FFA
Section B
has perpetual existence.
Provided the prospective association’s
constitution does not conflict with the 36 U.S.C. § 70902.  Purposes.
National FFA Constitution and Bylaws and The purposes of the FFA are—
provided other constitutional requirements (1) to be an integral component of
have been met, a charter shall be granted instruction in agricultural education,
by the National FFA Board of Directors. The including instruction relating to
charter shall be signed by the national FFA agriculture, food, and natural resources;
advisor, the executive secretary and the (2) to advance comprehensive agricultural
national FFA president. education in the United States, including
in public schools, by supporting
Section C
contextual classroom and laboratory
The state FFA advisor and/or governing body
instruction and work-based experiential
of a chartered state association shall charter
learning;
a local chapter when the state requirements
(3) to prepare students for successful
have been met and the following have been
entry into productive careers in fields
received by the state association:
relating to agriculture, food, and natural
1. An application for a charter.
resources, including by connecting
policies
national ffa

2. The names of all chapter members and

students to relevant postsecondary
officers.
educational pathways and focusing
3. The proposed chapter constitution and
on the complete delivery of classroom
bylaws.
and laboratory instruction, work-based
4. The chapter Program of Activities.
experiential learning, and leadership
5. All current state and national FFA dues
development;
or program affiliation fees.
(4) to be a resource and support
organization that does not select,
FFA Federal Charter control, or supervise State association,
local chapter, or individual member
In 1950, the 81st Congress of the United activities;
States, recognizing the importance of FFA as (5) to develop educational materials,
an integral part of the program of vocational programs, services, and events as a
agriculture, granted a Federal Charter to FFA service to State and local agricultural
via Public Law 81-740. This law established education agencies;
the charter in Title 36 of United States Code. (6) to seek and promote inclusion and
In 1998, the 105th Congress reviewed and diversity in its membership, leadership,
passed technical amendments to the FFA and staff to reflect the belief of the FFA
Federal Charter as part of Public Law 105- in the value of all human beings;

87
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

(7) to create, foster, and assist subsidiary 36 U.S.C. § 70903.  Membership.
chapters and associations of those (a) Eligibility.—
chapters in the States, territories, and Except as provided in this chapter,
possessions of the United States as such eligibility for membership in the FFA and
chapters and associations carry out the rights and privileges of members are
agricultural education programs that as provided in the constitution or bylaws
are approved by States, territories, or of the FFA.
possessions; (b) Voting.—
(8) to build character, and develop In matters of official business of a local
competent and assertive agricultural chapter, each member has one vote. In
leadership; matters of official business of a State
(9) to increase awareness of the global and association, each qualified delegate of a
technological importance of agriculture, local chapter has one vote.
food, and natural resources, and the way
36 U.S.C. § 70904.  Governing body.
agriculture contributes to our well-being;
(10) to promote the intelligent choice and (a) Board of Directors.—
establishment of a career in fields (1) The board of directors is the
relating to agriculture, food, and natural governing body of the FFA. The board
national ffa

resources; shall exercise the powers granted to

(11) to make available to State associations, the FFA.
policies

local chapters, and members all official (2) The board—

supplies, programs, services, and (A) shall consist of—
equipment of the FFA; (i) the Secretary of Education,
(12) to cooperate with others, including or the Secretary of
State boards and officials for career and Education’s designee
technical education, in accomplishing who has experience in
these purposes; and agricultural education, the
(13) to engage in other activities, consistent FFA, or career and technical
with these purposes, determined by education; and
the governing body to be for the best (ii) other individuals—
interests of the FFA. (I) representing the fields
of education, agriculture,
food, and natural

88
 resources; or presidents (each representing regions as
(II) with experience working provided in the constitution or bylaws of
closely with the FFA; and the corporation), and a student secretary.
(B) shall not include any individual (b) Election.—
who is a current employee of The national officers of the corporation
the National FFA Organization. shall be elected annually by a majority
(3) The number of directors, terms vote of the delegates assembled in the
of office of the directors, and the annual national convention from among
method of selecting the directors, qualified members of the corporation.
are as provided in the constitution or (c) Vote at National Convention.—
bylaws of the FFA. Each qualified delegate has one vote at
(4) The board shall meet at least the annual national convention.
annually at the time and place
36 U.S.C. § 70906.  Powers.
provided in the constitution or bylaws
The FFA may—
of the FFA. The annual report of the
(1) adopt and amend bylaws and
board shall be presented at that
regulations for the management of
meeting. Special meetings of the
its property and the regulation of its
board may be called at any time by
affairs, including the establishment and
the chair.
maintenance of local chapters and State
(b) Officers. —
associations of chapters;
The officers of the FFA, the terms of
(2) adopt and alter a seal;
officers, and the election of officers, are
(3) adopt emblems and badges;
as provided in the constitution or bylaws
(4) choose officers, managers, agents,
of the FFA, except that such officers shall
and employees as the activities of the
include—
corporation require;
(1) a national advisor;
(5) make contracts;
(2) an executive secretary; and
(6) acquire, own, lease, encumber, and
(3) a treasurer.
transfer property as necessary or
(c) Governing Committee.—
convenient to carry out the purposes of
(1) The board may designate a
the FFA;
governing committee. The terms and
(7) borrow money, issue instruments of
method of selecting the governing
indebtedness, and secure its obligations
committee members are as provided
by granting security interests in its
in the constitution or bylaws of the
property;
FFA, except that all members of
(8) use FFA funds to give prizes, awards,
the governing committee shall be
loans, and grants to deserving members,
members of the board of directors
local FFA chapters, and State FFA
and at all times the governing
policies
national ffa

associations to carry out the purposes of

committee shall be comprised of not
the FFA;
less than 3 individuals.
(9) produce publications, websites, and
(2) When the board is not in session, the
other media;
governing committee has the powers
(10) make available to State associations,
of the board subject to the board’s
local chapters, and members all official
direction and may authorize the seal
FFA supplies and equipment;
of the FFA to be affixed to all papers
that require it.
(3) The board shall designate to such
committee—
(A) the chair of the board;
(B) the executive secretary of the
board; and
(C) the treasurer of the board.

36 U.S.C. § 70905.  National officers.

(a) Composition.—
There shall be not less than 6 national
student officers of the FFA, including
a student president, 4 student vice

89
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

(11) sue and be sued; and and benefit.

(12) do any other act necessary and proper to (b) Agency Assistance.—
carry out the purposes of the FFA. Those Federal agencies may make
personnel, services, and facilities
36 U.S.C. § 70907.  Exclusive right to name,
available to administer or assist in the
seals, emblems, and badges.
administration of the activities of the
The FFA and its authorized chapters and
FFA.
associations of chapters have the exclusive
(c) Agency Compensation.—
right to use the names “Future Farmers of
Personnel of the Federal agencies may
America” and “National FFA Organization,”
not receive compensation from the FFA
and the initials FFA as representing an
for their services, except that travel and
agricultural education membership
other legitimate expenses as defined by
organization and seals, emblems, and badges
the Federal agencies and approved by
the FFA adopts.
the board may be paid.
36 U.S.C. § 70908.  Restrictions. (d) Cooperation with State Boards.—
(a) Stock and Dividends.— The Federal agencies also may
The FFA may not issue stock or declare cooperate with State boards and other
or pay a dividend. organizations for career and technical
(b) Political Activities.— education to assist in the promotion of
The FFA or a director, officer, or member activities of the FFA.
acting on behalf of the FFA may not
36 U.S.C. § 70910.  Headquarters and
contribute to, support, or assist a political
principal office.
party or candidate for elective public
The headquarters and principal office of the
office.
FFA shall be as provided in the constitution
(c) Distribution of Income or Assets.—
or bylaws of the FFA. The activities of the FFA
The income or assets of the FFA may not
may be conducted throughout the States,
inure to the benefit of, or be distributed
territories, and possessions of the United
to, a director, officer, or member, except
States.
on dissolution or final liquidation of the
FFA. 36 U.S.C. § 70911.  Records and inspection
(d) Loans.— (a) Records.—
The FFA may not make a loan to a The FFA shall keep—
director, officer, or employee. Directors (1) correct and complete records of
who vote for or assent to making a loan account;
to a director, officer, or employee, and (2) minutes of the proceedings of its
officers who participate in making the members, board of directors, and
loan, are jointly and severally liable to the committees having any of the
corporation for the amount of the loan authority of its board of directors; and
until it is repaid. (3) a record of the names and addresses
(e) Prizes, Awards, Grants, or Loans to of its members.
Student Officers and Members Meeting (b) Inspection.—
Criteria.— A member, or an agent or attorney of the
member, may inspect the records of the
national ffa

This section does not preclude prizes,

awards, grants, or loans to student FFA at any reasonable time.
policies

officers and members meeting the

36 U.S.C. § 70912.  Service of Process.
criteria established by the board of
(a) In General.—
directors for selecting recipients of those
The FFA shall have a designated agent
benefits.
to receive service of process for the
36 U.S.C. § 70909.  Availability of personnel, corporation. Notice to or service on the
services, and facilities of Department of agent, or mailed to the business address
Education. of the agent, is notice to or service on
(a) In General.— the FFA.
On request of the board of directors, (b) States, Territories, and Possessions.—
the FFA may collaborate with Federal As a condition to the exercise of any
agencies, including the Department power or privilege granted by this
of Education and the Department of chapter, the FFA shall file, with the
Agriculture on matters of mutual interest Secretary of State or other designated

90
 official of each State, territory, or Directors, acting upon recommendations
possession of the United States in which of the national board of student officers
a subordinate association or chapter and the national convention delegates,
of the FFA is organized, the name is assigned the responsibility for
and address of an agent in that State, establishing policies governing the use
territory, or possession on whom legal of the FFA Name and Marks.
process or demands against the FFA b. The use of the FFA Name and Marks
may be served. shall be only such that will reflect dignity
and credit on the organization.
36 U.S.C. § 70913.  Liability for acts of
c. Chapter, state association, state
officers and agents.
foundation and national foundation
The FFA is liable for the acts of its officers
use of the FFA Name and Marks is
and agents acting within the scope of their
encouraged to publicize and promote
authority.
FFA, especially in the context of:
36 U.S.C. § 70914.  Distribution of assets on (01) Public information, including, but
dissolution or final liquidation. not limited to, newspapers, TV, radio,
On dissolution or final liquidation of the FFA, videos, multimedia works and other
any assets remaining after the discharge forms of publicity relating to FFA
of all liabilities shall be used by the board and FFA activities and programs,
of directors for the benefit of students of (02) Promotions and publicity events
agricultural education or be transferred to a including, but not limited to, FFA
recognized educational foundation. Week, fairs, expositions or other
displays, road signs, member home

Official Board Policy

designations and parade floats,
(03) Educational programs of all types,

on FFA Trademarks including career development

events and awards designed
for educational purposes and
Adopted November 1995
programs where revenue may be
generated, but is incidental to the
Approved by National FFA Board of Directors
purpose of the activity and does not
May 8, 2018.
significantly exceed the cost of the
program and
The following policies are for the guidance
(04) Motivational programs of all types,
of FFA members, local chapters, state
including those where revenue may
associations, the National FFA Organization
be generated, but is incidental to
and all other parties concerned with the
the purpose of the activity and does
approved and acceptable uses of the name
not significantly exceed the cost of
Future Farmers of America, the name
policies
national ffa

the program.
National FFA Organization, the letters FFA,
d. Any use of the FFA Name and Marks is
the FFA emblem, the FFA Advertising Mark
strictly prohibited if such use exploits,
and other FFA trademarks and service marks.
or might be construed to exploit, for
They were approved by the national board of
commercial or unapproved purposes, the
student officers and board of directors and
organization, its officers, members or the
adopted by delegates at the 1995 national
agricultural education program of which
convention.
they are a part.
Basic Premises e. No organization, person, company,
a. The name Future Farmers of America chapter, state association or state
and the National FFA Organization, foundation may grant the right to
the letters FFA and the FFA emblem or use or reproduce by any means or
insignia and FFA Advertising Mark are manufacture, any of the FFA Name
registered as trademarks in the United and Marks for any purpose, except as
States Patent and Trademark Office. expressly granted in these policies. The
They, and the other FFA Marks, are National FFA Organization reserves
the exclusive property of the “Future the right, in its discretion, to enter into
Farmers of America,” a corporation by agreements for use of the FFA Name
an Act of Congress (P.L. 105-225, 105th and Marks, including appropriate uses
Congress). The National FFA Board of for commercial purposes. Any use or

91
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

employment of any of the FFA Name e. The FFA Name and Marks shall not be
and Marks that is not specifically used by or associated in any manner
included in this Statement of Policies is with any organization or business
reserved to the National FFA Board of when such use or association might
Directors. reflect unfavorably on the National FFA
f. Any grant or authorization to an Organization or its members.
individual, organization or institution f. All uses of the FFA Name and Marks
for a specific use of any of the FFA shall be truthful and accurate. The FFA
Name and Marks does not imply nor Name and Marks shall never be used
preclude granting a similar authorization in a manner that misleads or deceives.
to another individual, organization For example, any authorized use stating
or institution for the same or similar that proceeds from an activity “go to
purposes. FFA” shall clearly identify the portion of
proceeds that will be provided to FFA.
General Policies
a. The FFA emblem should be given a Specific Policies
position of prominence whenever it is a. Consistent with the goals set forth in
used. the basic premises and general policies,
b. The FFA emblem always should be used chapters, state associations and state
intact without being defaced. foundations are hereby authorized
c. The FFA Name and Marks shall not (within the meaning of Section 16 of
be used or employed in any manner Public Law 105-225, 105th Congress) to
by the FFA groups, members or other use the FFA Name and Marks for the
parties as trademarks in connection with purposes set forth in the goals on the
commercial enterprises or purposes. following conditions:
d. Advertisements, public releases or (01) The use of the FFA Name and
displays containing any of the FFA Name Marks is otherwise in compliance
and Marks in any form shall not include with these policies and the FFA
expressed or implied testimonials or Name and Marks are used in such
endorsements of business firms or a manner as to impart positive
individuals, their products or services, feelings of support for agricultural
either by individual members, local education and FFA or to impart
FFA chapters, state associations, a modern view of agricultural
state foundations or the National FFA education;
Organization.
national ffa
policies

92
 (02) The FFA Name and Marks are not on plaques, trophies and other
used on official clothing, which “awards,”
remains the exclusive province (07) All collateral literature relating to
of the National FFA Organization. any product or service and the
“Official clothing” refers to any packaging or label affixed to any
clothing so designated by the product, must state that the “Use of
national board of directors and any the [FFA Name or Mark being used]
facsimiles thereof; does not represent an endorsement
(03) The FFA Name and Marks are by FFA of this product or service
not used on any articles for sale or an endorsement by FFA of the
or otherwise for the purpose of manufacturer or provider of this
fundraising, which is governed by product or service,”
Specific Policy 2, below (08) Each State FFA Advisor or his
b. Chapters, state associations, state or her designee shall maintain
foundations and the national foundation a sample of each product sold
are hereby authorized (within the under this paragraph by the state
meaning of Section 16 of Public Law association or state foundation
105-225, 105th Congress) to use the FFA and shall provide to the national
Name and Marks on articles for sale, for board of directors or its designee
the purpose of raising funds to support a trademark report each year
local, state or national FFA programs, on identifying each product or service
the following conditions: sold by the state association or state
(01) The use of the FFA Name and Marks foundation under this paragraph
is otherwise in compliance with using any of the FFA Name and
these policies, Marks. Samples shall be maintained
(02) Sales are limited by chapters to their for two years and may be inspected
local service area (roughly the area by a designee of the national board
from which members are drawn) of directors at his or her request,
and by state associations and (09) Each chapter shall provide a report
foundations to within their state each year to its state FFA advisor
boundary, or his or her designee identifying
(03) The products or services sold each product or service sold under
must: be in good taste, represent this paragraph using any of the
a reasonable product or service for FFA Name and Marks. The chapter
FFA as an agricultural association, shall maintain a sample of each
provide reasonable value, be of such product for two years and
good quality, not subject purchasers shall provide such samples, upon
or users to risk of harm or loss and request, to the State FFA Advisor or
policies
national ffa

be consistent with the goals and the national board of directors and
image of the FFA, (10)  Before any use under this
(04) All sales must be made by the paragraph relating to the sale
local chapter, state association or of products is authorized, the
state foundation or its members chapter, state association, state
(as the “retailer”). Chapters, state foundation or national foundation
associations and state foundations shall obtain from its supplier
are not authorized to grant rights to an agreement that the supplier
use the FFA Name and Marks when will indemnify and defend the
the product or service will be sold to National FFA Organization and its
wholesalers or dealers, who will, in officers, directors, chapters, state
turn, resell that product or service, associations and state foundations
(05) The FFA Marks may not be used from and against any liability or
on official clothing (as defined costs arising from the manufacture,
above), which remains the exclusive quality or characteristics of the
province of the National FFA products. The national board of
Organization, directors may, from time to time,
(06) The authority granted by this identify classes of products for
paragraph does not include use which an indemnification is not
of the FFA Name and Marks required.

93
 OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

c. When chapters, state associations, honors which have been conferred upon
state foundations or the national them.
foundation authorize a third party i. The National FFA Foundation, Inc. and
to create materials for their use, and National FFA Alumni and Supporters
those materials require the creation are entitled to use the official FFA
of copies of any of the FFA Name and emblem and name of the National
Marks that are raised, cast, die cut, FFA Organization in fulfilling official
adhesive or created by any process other responsibilities as determined by the
than printing, the FFA Marks must be board of directors and National FFA
acquired from a supplier duly authorized Officers.
by the national board of directors or its j. National FFA Foundation sponsors
designee. Chapters, state associations may use the FFA Mark and Name in
and state foundations may create commercial advertisements which do
plaques and trophies, but the FFA Name not endorse or imply endorsement of
and Marks used on the plaques and a product. Such usages shall have the
trophies must be acquired from such a approval of the chief executive officer
duly authorized supplier. Chapters, state or foundation team leader for each
associations and state foundations must proposed advertisement before its actual
ensure that only currently approved and printing or production.
recognized emblems or marks are used. k. All uses of the FFA Name and Marks
d. State associations, state foundations and are subject to review by the board of
local chapters, in their respective areas directors. Authority for the use shall be
of operation, may authorize commercial withdrawn by the board of directors
firms, business organizations and other if the use is found to be in violation of
agencies and individuals to employ these policies. The board of directors,
the FFA Name and Marks in saluting or acting in the best interests of FFA, may
paying tribute to the organization and condition, limit or terminate any grant
in supporting its educational objectives of authority to use the FFA Name and
and activities. Marks. It is the responsibility of the State
e. State associations and local chapters FFA Advisor to monitor compliance with
of the FFA may employ the FFA Name the official policies and to protect the
and Marks in exhibits, displays and interests of FFA with respect to the use
demonstrations that are designed of the FFA Name and Marks by chapters,
to pay tribute to or to salute the FFA state associations and state foundations.
organization. l. Nothing in these Policies transfers
f. When the FFA emblem, the name ownership of any of the FFA Name and
“Future Farmers of America” or the Marks to any chapter, state association or
letters “FFA” are used in printed form, state foundation. Ownership in all of the
they shall be identified by the symbol FFA Name and Marks is retained by the
consisting of a small capital letter “R” National FFA Organization.
in a circle to identify its registration m. The national board of directors will
and trademark privileges. All other FFA enforce these policies using all available
Marks, which are not registered but legal remedies.
national ffa

which are still FFA trademarks, shall be n. All FFA officers, members and staff shall
identified by the small capital letters be guided by the foregoing principles
policies

“TM.” and the spirit of these policies.

g. Active members, advisors and ex-officio
leaders of the FFA are entitled to identify
themselves officially with the FFA
organization and to wear the official FFA
degree pins and charms.
h. Former FFA members, collegiate chapter
members, honorary members and
persons who are recipients of official FFA
honors, special recognition and awards,
are entitled to wear the pins, charms,
medals or other approved symbols of
the respective official degrees, awards or

94
Below are the registered trademarks of the National sponsors can request the use of the
National FFA Organization. These marks “Proud to Support” trademark by emailing
are approved for use by chapters, state foundation@ffa.org. Authorized vendors
associations and state foundations, all of can request approval for one-time use of
which are encouraged to use the marks the registered FFA Trademarks by emailing
to publicize and promote FFA within the branding@ffa.org. Sponsors and vendors
context of the Official Board Policy on FFA should allow at least three business days for
Trademarks. the approval process. Sponsors and vendors
will be expected to comply with the Official
Chapters, state associations and state Board Policy on FFA Trademarks.
foundations can download FFA trademarks at
FFA.org/brand.

FFA
FFA

policies
national ffa

95
OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

Notes

96
Notes

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OFFICIAL FFA MANUAL

Notes

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The Annual FFA Tee
2020-2021

TEE20 | $12.50

BACK

Join the countdown to our 100-year anniversary in

2028, and add this year’s commemorative annual tee
to your collection! The 2020-2021 “For the Future, For
All” tee is the perfect keepsake to mark this year!

Get it on ShopFFA.org

ShopFFA.org • 888-332-2668
THE FFA VISION
FFA is growing the next generation of leaders who will change the world.

THE FFA MISSION

FFA makes a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for
premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.

THE AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION MISSION

Agricultural education prepares students for successful careers and a lifetime of informed
choices in global agriculture, food, fiber and natural resources systems.

The National FFA Organization is a resource and support organization that does not
select, control or supervise state association, local chapter or individual member activities.
Educational materials are developed by FFA in cooperation with the U.S. Department of
Education as a service to state and local agricultural education agencies.

The National FFA Organization affirms its belief in the value of all human beings and
seeks diversity in its membership, leadership and staff as an equal opportunity employer.

2020 © NATIONAL FFA ORGANIZATION The letters “FFA,” the FFA emblem, Future Farmers
of America and Forever Blue are registered trademarks of the National FFA Organization
and cannot be used without permission.