National FFA Convention

By: Anna Gerike

A group of twelve dedicated Reedsburg Area High School FFA members is trading in their textbooks for travel bags as they prepare to join over 70,000 peers in Indianapolis for the 98th annual National FFA Convention. Under the guidance of agriscience teacher and advisor Mr. Nick Casey, the students will spend four action-packed days, from October 28-31, participating in workshops, exploring careers, and visiting major industry sites.

For Lindsey Lichte ‘28, the convention is a chance to see beyond the local chapter. "I'm excited to see new places. To see how big FFA really is and to meet new people from other places and their experiences," said Lichte, highlighting the sense of scope that draws students from all 50 states, the Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico.

The busy itinerary is designed to maximize networking and learning for all those attending. The chapter will attend general sessions, hear from keynote speakers like Coach Kiah, a successful California rancher turned motivational speaker, and also participate in a career fair. The group has also scheduled tours to provide hands-on experience, including a stop at the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, Illinois, and the revolutionary Fair Oaks Farm in Fair Oaks, Indiana, known for its high-tech approach to agriculture.

Mr. Casey is eager for the students to see modern agriculture up close. "I'm most excited about the Shedd Aquarium and to see robot milkers at Fair Oak Farms," Casey said, pointing to the hands-on learning that goes far beyond the classroom.

The students are most looking forward to connecting with peers who share their interests.

Ada Larson ‘26 said, “I’m definitely most excited to see my friends from other chapters and make new ones!” 

Aubrey Brandt ‘26 agreed, saying, “I’m most excited to meet new people and spend time with people that have the same passion as me.”

The trip also offers valuable leadership and skill development. 

Izzy Verthein ‘27 and Lizzy Rockweiler ‘28 both mentioned that they are eager to focus on “Meeting new people and gaining leadership skills.”

For those who have previously attended, like Jenna Bretsch ‘27, the focus is on new opportunities. "Most definitely just getting to enjoy walking around and meeting new people and not having to worry about judging. Getting to do fun things that I couldn’t do last year," said Bretsch, who was on the Reedsburg FFA’s horse judging team at last year's convention.

The group will ensure they balance education with fun, planning a chapter dinner in Indianapolis and a recreational trip to Hanna Haunted Acres for a haunted house experience.

The 12 students representing RAHS are: Carter Allen ‘26, Aubrey Brandt ‘26, Jenna Bretsch ‘27, Anna Gerike ‘26, Molly Goff ‘26, Ada Larson ‘26, Lindsey Lichte ‘28, Braelynn Meister ‘26, Kaylee Petersen ‘29, Lizzy Rockweiler ‘28, Audrey Stelling ‘28, and Izzy Verthein ‘27.