This past July, five Paulding FFA members attended the 2016 Washington Leadership Conference, the second-largest student experience that the National FFA Organization hosts each year. Created in 1969 and held annually in Washington, D.C.,they attended from July 19-24 at the Omni Shoreham Hotel. Since 1969, the National FFA Organization has hosted this student leadership event. FFA members from throughout the country converged on Washington, D.C., and analyzed their personal skills and interests, developed leadership skills and created a meaningful community service plan that will make a difference in their home communities. Members spent a week under the guidance of professionals, counselors and FFA staff members. In workshops, seminars and small groups, students focused on identifying and developing their personal strengths and goals while undergoing comprehensive leadership training that will help them guide their local FFA chapters.
Students also analyzed the needs of their communities back home, developed a wide-ranging and high-impact community service initiative and will take action to implement their plan with the help of their FFA chapter upon return home. Students in recent years have promoted agricultural literacy; brought awareness to abuse; collected and distributed shoes to individuals in Haiti; created an awareness plan on hunger, and more. During their time in D.C., FFA members also experienced the history of the nation’s capital, toured landmarks including the Washington Monument, War Memorial, the National Mall, Arlington National Cemetery and the U.S. Capitol, among others. Students also had an opportunity for congressional visits during the week.
The Paulding FFA members who attended include Kalyn Strahley, Estee Miller, Katlynn Fuller, Chantal Monnier and Devon Smith. Students were able to attend this nationwide leadership conference due to the financial support from the following local donors: Paulding FFA Alumni, Cooper Farms, NAPA/True Value, First Federal Bank, Williamson Insurance, Archbold Equipment, Paulding Area Foundation, Van Wert Foundation-William J Flickinger Fund, Paulding-Putnam Roundup Grant, Haviland Drainage, Ag Credit, Black Swamp Arbor, Mercer Landmark. The Paulding FFA Chapter greatly appreciates the support given by these organizations and businesses to provide this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The attendees are preparing a business presentation highlighting their experience and how they plan to take action in their local community. Please feel free to contact the Paulding FFA Chapter if your organization would like to view this presentation.
