Katrina Hageman, president of South Winneshiek FFA Chapter in Calmar, took home the Agricultural Communications Proficiency Award at the 95th annual Iowa FFA Leadership Conference in Ames. The award was sponsored by ISA. (Photo: Joclyn Bushman/Iowa Soybean Association)
Supporting agriculture's future leaders
April 20, 2023 | Brock Johnston
A desire to support future agriculture leaders is a driving force behind the Iowa Soybean Association’s (ISA) ongoing partnership with the Iowa FFA Foundation. This commitment was on full display this week as more than 6,000 Iowans gathered for the 95th Annual Iowa FFA Leadership Conference in Ames.
With nearly 36,000 Iowans representing 248 local chapters across the state, the future success of Iowa FFA programs depends on the support from individuals and organizations like ISA.
“The Iowa Soybean Association is thrilled to continue our support as a Gold Standard Partner of the Iowa FFA Foundation in support of our state’s future ag leaders,” says Randy Miller, ISA president and soybean farmer from Lacona. “The partnership will better prepare FFA members across Iowa for opportunities that excel the production of food, fuel and fiber worldwide.”
An alum of the Pleasantville FFA Chapter, Miller understands the value of supporting young people in agriculture.
“This investment positively impacts the thousands of students taking steps in their journeys to become tomorrow’s leaders in the agriculture industry,” says Miller.
His children, Kaylee and Kaleb, are following in his agricultural footsteps. Kaylee is an ag instructor and FFA advisor at Winterset. Kaleb works alongside Randy on the farm.
With support from ISA, students from across Iowa will have access to world-class training, programs and leadership opportunities as any financial barriers for participation continue to be eliminated.
“Unfortunately, not every school always has the funds to support all extracurriculars, says Miller. ISA’s support of Iowa FFA continues to financially help youth explore their interests within our industry.”
ISA’s financial support also includes sponsorship of the Ag Communications Proficiency Award, Iowa Professional Agricultural Student Organization (PAS) State Conference, and the Black Ties Blue Jackets Gala.
“One in 5 Iowans have jobs within the agriculture industry, which makes farmer-led support even more valuable to making sure our industry stays successful,” added Miller.
To learn more about the Iowa FFA Foundation, including upcoming events and giving opportunities, visit iowaffafoundation.org.
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