Ohio FFA members embark on a summer of leadership growth

Throughout the summer months, Ohio FFA members pursued premier leadership experiences across the country through a variety of FFA programs. Explore the highlights and stories from three students’ journeys.

Next Gen Agribusiness Conference: Chicago, IL

Next Gen conferences, hosted by the National FFA Organization, invite students to immerse themself in a specific agricultural career pathway through learning sessions, roundtables with industry leaders, and business tours.

Claire Rhoades, a junior member of the Brookville MVCTC FFA Chapter, attended the Next Gen Agribusiness Conference in Chicago, Illinois. Rhoades was one of 75 FFA members from across the country selected to participate in this opportunity to explore agricultural business operations, management, and entrepreneurship.

Rhoades attended the conference to explore potential career pathways and gain a deeper understanding of the professional opportunities available within the agriculture industry.

“Seeing the fast-paced office environment, learning about renewable energy projects, and experiencing a professional corporate setting showed me just how many opportunities exist in agriculture and business beyond the farm,” Rhoades said.

In addition to creating a roadmap for career success, the conference provided Rhoades with valuable insights into how leadership skills can be applied beyond her agriculture education classroom.

“I learned that leadership isn’t about having all the answers,” Rhoades said. “It’s about having the courage to ask questions, embrace new ideas, and inspire others to grow alongside you.”

Washington Leadership Conference: Washington D.C.

Known as the Washington Leadership Conference (WLC), thousands of FFA members attend this five-day event each summer. Focused on leadership, citizenship, service, and action, the conference allows students to pursue personal growth, witness advocacy in action, and tour Washington D.C.

Junior Jaxon Ongalibang of the Cardington FFA Chapter attended WLC in his role as a chapter officer.

“The prime focus of WLC is to help members grow as leaders, strengthen their voices, and make a positive impact in their communities,” Ongalibang said.

WLC attendees develop a “Living to Serve Plan” as a personal commitment to continue making an impact after the conference concludes. Ongalibang credited the workshops and discussions with fellow FFA members for reinforcing the principles of servant leadership and inspiring his own plan for positive change.

“The greatest lesson I learned at WLC was that true leadership begins with service,” Ongalibang said. “I will apply this lesson back at home through my Living to Serve plan which consists of tutoring at my school and connecting people with the opportunity to serve.”

Ohio Leadership Camp: Ohio FFA Camp Muskingum

Hosted annually at Ohio FFA Camp Muskingum, Ohio Leadership Camp (OLC) equips students with leadership skills through a combination of outdoor recreation, team-building, and self-discovery. This year, 50 Ohio FFA members attended.

For Ann Boyd, a junior member of the Hillsboro Great Oaks FFA Chapter, OLC offered a new camp experience. After attending other FFA camp sessions in the past, she chose OLC to challenge herself by making new connections.

“My family encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone by going to a new camp session and meeting people from all over the state,” Boyd said.

In addition to traditional camp activities, members participated in team-building challenges hosted by the U.S. Army, the camp’s sponsor, including tug-of-war, camouflage, and fitness relays. They also completed the National FFA Member Leadership Series, where they developed leadership skills, identified their personal strengths, and explored ways to create a positive impact in their communities.

Boyd reflects that OLC helped her develop a new leadership skill centered on voice and advocacy.

“When we as FFA members use our voice to advocate for agriculture, that doesn’t necessarily mean you have to be an officer or compete in public speaking, but to be an involved member,” Boyd said. “Anyone can be an advocate, we just have to find our inner voice to speak up when others are in need.”