July 11, 2018

 

Charleston, W.Va. ­– West Virginia FFA leadership announced today that membership reached an all-time high during the 2017-18 school year at their annual convention at Cedar Lakes Convention Center. With 5,360 members in 77 local chapters, 2017-18 membership surpassed the previous membership record set in 1963. Members of the 1962-63 state FFA officer team were in attendance to congratulate 2017-18 members for their achievement.  

 

“The growing numbers of young people attracted to FFA is inspiring for our state,” said West Virginia Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Steven Paine. “Membership cultivates leadership, supports personal and academic growth, and supports the diversity and new opportunities in the industry of agriculture. The students, advisors and mentors who make FFA such a success should truly be proud of their achievement.”

 

The FFA program first began in West Virginia in 1929, 12 years after Agricultural Education was introduced into West Virginia Schools. The organization is an intra-curricular student organization for those interested in agriculture and leadership. West Virginia FFA welcomes members with an interest in agriculture as well those with career goals as teachers, doctors, scientists, business owners and more.

 

“Growing participation in what FFA has to offer is not only beneficial to the students who participate, but also has the potential to have a substantial positive impact on West Virginia’s economy,” said Associate Superintendent over the Division of CTE & Governor’s Economic Initiatives, Dr. Kathy D’Antoni. “West Virginia FFA is attracting students from all walks of life who have a passion for groundbreaking, hands-on learning and student leadership.”

 

“Agriculture education is the fastest growing Career Technical Education program in the state,” said Jason Hughes, West Virginia’s FFA Advisor. “The growing FFA membership is a testament to the exceptional quality of educators teaching and advising students to meet future industry needs.”

 

The West Virginia FFA gathers members from all over the state to celebrate accomplishments and find inspiration for the next year with keynote speakers and workshops during its convention. This year’s convention is being held July 11-14, 2018, and includes an address by Bryce Cluff, the Western Regional National FFA Vice President.