U.S. Reps. Tracey Mann and Jimmy Panetta, co-chairs of the Congressional FFA Caucus, and Reps. Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson and Suzanne Bonamici, co-chairs of the Congressional Career and Technical Education Caucus, led 61 of their colleagues in introducing a resolution to designate Feb. 15 to 22 as National FFA Week.
U.S. Sens. Todd Young, R-Indiana, and Chris Coons, D-Delaware, introduced the legislation in the U.S. Senate. “This week, current and past FFA members will reflect on the impact of the National FFA Organization and its role in shaping the next generation of leaders in food and agriculture,”said Mann, R-Kansas. “Those of us who have had the honor of wearing the blue jacket understand the lasting impact FFA has on molding, shaping, and equipping young leaders to succeed. Across the country this week, more than one million FFA members will fulfill our motto – ‘Learning to do, Doing to Learn, Earning to Live, and Living to Serve’ through service projects, educational showcases, and engagement in their communities. As a past chapter FFA officer from Quinter, Kansas, proud FFA alumnus, and founder of the Congressional FFA Caucus, I’m honored to introduce this resolution. Happy National FFA Week!”
“While those of us from agricultural communities understand the dedication and innovation of our young farmers, ranchers, and agricultural leaders year-round, this resolution ensures that the entire nation takes a moment to recognize their impact,” said Panetta, D-California. “I’m proud to once again introduce this bipartisan resolution recognizing National FFA Week and the invaluable contributions of FFA members to our agricultural future. FFA provides the knowledge, leadership skills, and hands-on experience necessary to sustain and advance our nation’s food security. I’m honored to continue working alongside my colleagues in Congress to support the FFA and the next generation of agricultural leaders.”
“For nearly a century, FFA has been instrumental in shaping the next generation of farmers, ranchers, and producers,”said Thompson, a Republican from Pennsylvania and chairman of the House Agriculture Committee. “National FFA Week celebrates the young men and women who are the future of agriculture. Through education and hands-on experiences, FFA continues to make a lasting impact on the agriculture industry.”
“Agriculture is essential to northwest Oregon’s economy and way of life. FFA prepares students to enter meaningful careers in farms, ranches, vineyards, and dairies, and gives them the opportunity to connect with peers who share their passion for the important work they do,”said Bonamici, an Orgeon Democrat. “This National FFA week I’m glad to highlight FFA with my colleagues in the bipartisan Congressional FFA Caucus and Congressional Career and Technical Education Caucus.”
“FFA plays a critical role in the development of students through agricultural education. The lessons, tools, and resources gained through the FFA program equip Indiana’s future leaders with the skills needed to succeed in a variety of fields,” Young said. “I’m glad to lead this resolution establishing National FFA Week in support of the more than 13,000 Hoosier FFA members.”
“Young Delawareans learn to meet today’s agricultural challenges and prepare for tomorrow’s opportunities through programs offered by the Delaware FFA and the National FFA Organization,” Coons said. “I’m thrilled to join my colleagues to reintroduce this bipartisan resolution honoring this vital organization and its talented educators and members who will become the next generation of leaders.”
“National FFA Week serves as a powerful reminder of the vital role that agricultural education and leadership development play in shaping our future,” said National FFA Advisor Travis Park. “It’s a time of celebration and reflection as FFA members, advisors, and supporters come together to honor the impact of this extraordinary organization. The week highlights the value of fostering inclusivity and leadership while addressing the critical demand for skilled talent in agriculture and related industries. Through outreach events, community engagement, and heartfelt gratitude to supporters, National FFA Week strengthens the bond between members and their communities, ensuring the legacy of agriculture and education thrives for generations to come.”
“FFA Week is a week of celebration and an opportunity for FFA members from across Kansas and the nation to share about the profound impact of FFA and agricultural education,” said Kansas FFA State President Jory Razlaff. “This week serves as a reminder for all FFA members, past and present, of the experiences and memories created while wearing the blue corduroy jacket. FFA Week is filled with tradition, as chapters host events for their programs, connect and give back to community members, promote the future of agriculture, and develop the next generation of leaders.”
