National FFA Convention Press Release
Ten members of the Audubon FFA joined more than 70,000 alumni members, FFA student members and supporters from across the country at the 96th National FFA Convention & Expo in Indianapolis on October 21st – November 3rd. Audubon FFA members Kylie Petersen, Olivia Carter, Evelyn Gomez, Sydney Johnson, Maecy Rudy, Walter Vetter, Macey Bauer, Emma Griffith, Hayden Larsen, and Jesse Stroeher along with advisor, Mrs. Brittany Elmquist were in attendance. The National FFA Convention is the largest annual youth organization gathering in the nation.
Audubon FFA members participated in several tours while gone for the week in Iowa and Indiana. Tours included:
Kinze Manufacturing, Williamsburg, IA – Members visited the Innovation Center and toured the factory tour. They learned about Kinze’s rich heritage and how their technology helped shape the future of farming. The plant was in the process of building their planters and members were fascinated by the process.
Ozark Fisheries, Martinsville, IN – Ozark Fisheries is a 4th generation family owned and operated ornamental goldfish and koi farm. Members visited the hatchery, production, and shipping facilities. This was a hands-on experience were students learned about fish management, biology, and natural resources.
Umbarger Show Feeds, Franklin, IN – Umbarger Show Feeds is also a 4th generation family owned and operated business and have been in business for over 75 years. Umbarger Show Feeds has been specially formulated by showmen for showmen. The members learned about the mill operation and especially enjoyed the robotic working “members” of the team of employees.
While at the convention members visited with numerous agricultural businesses and exhibitors about career opportunities and products along with learning about possible majors from colleges and universities from across the United States in the National FFA Expo. This expo featured industry leaders in all areas of agriculture, food science, natural resources, and education. Members also had the opportunity to attend leadership and personal growth workshops.
Audubon FFA members heard from National FFA Officers as they gave reflections centered around “Evolve,” and the importance of seeds. The chapter also heard an inspirational message from keynote speaker, Juan Bendana. Mr. Bendana is a renowned speaker, author, and DJ with a captivating presence. He is the founder The 100 Day Playbook, guiding students to forge better habits, enhance productivity, and optimize their lives. The sessions were full of FFA recognition and highlighted opportunities for members all taking place in the Lucas Oil Stadium, home of the Indianapolis Colts NFL team.
Members also enjoyed a night at the Indy Scream Park, Indiana’s scariest haunted house and top five in the United States. Audubon members also had an intense game of laser tag.
New friends were made as Audubon members traveled with other local FFA chapters including CAM, Exira – EHK, Harlan and Riverside. The chapters chartered a bus through Hawkeye Stages and enjoyed the week together learning about agriculture and continuing to be inspired by the National FFA Organization.