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Illinois State Capitol visits, attending the Tennessee FFA State Convention and State Career and Leadership Development Events competitions filled our March calendar.
My teammates and I have been having a blast while traveling and meeting new people because that’s what it is all about — people and creating relationships.
We are now entering prime-time banquet season for FFA chapters. The Illinois FFA State Officer Team always jumps on the opportunity to get back on the road to join FFA members in celebrating the accomplishments they have made throughout the year.
Chapter banquets consist of congratulating chapter FFA members’ achievements, thanking specific individuals for supporting their chapter and a time for FFA members and community members to gather together.
FFA banquets have always held a special place in my heart because of how important it is to celebrate others. One of my favorite memories from my own chapter banquet was my senior year.
Our officer team put our heads together to decide how we wanted to recognize our FFA adviser on a fantastic year. We presented him with a huge purple banner that said “Grand Champion Ag Teacher” because we all knew his competitive spirit and how much we thought he was a champion.
My own personal experiences from my home chapter have allowed me to appreciate the small things and how celebrating encourages others to continue working toward their goals. Now I have the chance to see how each chapter has their own special flare.
As my teammates and I have traveled the state we all have had our own unique experiences. Adam Loker, state president, said he enjoyed seeing the support from communities.
“I have seen hundreds of people come together in their own communities to help support the FFA and what it stands for. It reaffirms the fact that our organization really makes a valuable impact on the lives of so many,” Loker said.
Local businesses and alumni members join the chapters in celebrating a great year of accomplishments. Community is always a top priority to the chapters and FFA is a top priority to the community.
Kara Freebairn, state treasurer, couldn’t agree more.
“Something that has stuck out to me was the abundant sense of community which is found there. Whether it be 20 people or 200 people in attendance, you cannot deny the pride these people have in their FFA chapter and the members inside,” Freebairn said.
Illinois FFA State Secretary Gracie Murphy reminisces on some banquets she has attended. She has observed FFA fundraising auctions with items that the students have made.
It is an opportunity for students to showcase skills and projects they have created throughout the year. Examples of the items were dog beds, flower beds, chairs, picnic tables, signs and much more.
FFA is all about tradition and the end of the year banquet is not short of that. Illinois State FFA Vice President Jaton Shaffer said the traditions — such as opening ceremonies, presentation of the FFA creed and local scholarships — are all favorites.
“Topping off the event is usually heartfelt well wishes for the students from their FFA adviser,” Shaffer said.
April and May signal the end of an academic year. It’s time to celebrate success. It’s time to say thank you and reflect on accomplishments. Don’t forget to round up your community and celebrate.
Lauren Mohr from the Normal West FFA Chapter is the 2021-2022 Illinois Association FFA state reporter.