Farm Credit CCF Grant Helps Virginia FFA Empower the Next Generation of Leaders

Thanks to a generous grant from Farm Credit of the Virginias, the Virginia FFA Foundation successfully hosted a transformative series of Ag Leaders Conferences across the state in November 2024, culminating in the impactful FFA Day at the Capitol on January 23, 2025.

Building Skills Across the Commonwealth

The five regional Ag Leaders Conferences brought together nearly 900 FFA members from across Virginia. Held in Weyers Cave, Wytheville, Mineral, Strasburg and Chatham, these events were designed to equip students with the skills and confidence needed to engage meaningfully with their elected officials. Each conference featured hands-on training in:
•    Public speaking and advocacy
•    Civic engagement and leadership
•    Writing meaningful thank you notes

The sessions were led by former National FFA President Andrew Seibel, the Virginia FFA State Officer Team and state FFA staff. Attending one of the sessions was a prerequisite for attending FFA Day at the Capitol.

Putting Leadership into Action

The training culminated in FFA Day at the Capitol, where over 700 students met face-to-face with Virginia lawmakers. Students scheduled appointments in advance and visited every member of the House of Delegates and Senate, delivering tokens of appreciation and engaging in meaningful conversations about agricultural education.

The event featured remarks from Governor Glenn Youngkin and First Lady Suzanne Youngkin, as well as Virginia Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry, Matthew Lohr. A group photo on the Capitol steps (below) captured the moment, with students, advisors and state leaders standing together in support of Virginia agriculture.

Making It Possible

Farm Credit of the Virginias’ support helped ensure the experience was accessible and affordable for all students. The Charitable Contributions Fund (CCF) grant covered:
•    Meals for participants at the regional conferences and the Capitol
•    Travel support for state officers and staff
•    Venue rentals for all five regional conferences
•    Commemorative decals for legislators and students

By strategically selecting conference locations, no FFA chapter had to travel more than two hours—removing barriers and encouraging broad participation.

A Lasting Impact

The Ag Leaders Conferences and FFA Day at the Capitol empowered students to speak up, show up and lead. Thanks to Farm Credit of the Virginias, these young leaders gained lifelong skills in leadership, public speaking and advocacy—while building relationships with peers and policymakers that will shape the future of agriculture in Virginia.