The cross section of the ear of corn provides the foundation of the emblem, just as corn has historically served as the foundation crop of American agriculture. It is also a symbol of unity, as corn is grown in every state of the nation.
The rising sun signifies progress and holds a promise that tomorrow will bring a new day glowing with opportunity.
The plow signifies labor and tillage of the soil, the backbone of agriculture and the historic foundation of out country's strength.
The eagle is a national symbol which serves as a reminder of our freedom and ability to explore new horizons for the future of agriculture.
The owl, long recognized for its wisdom, symbolizes the knowledge required to be successful in the industry of agriculture.
The words "Agricultural Education" and "FFA" are emblazoned in the center to signify the combination of learning and leadership necessary for progressive agriculture.
Colors - As the blue field of our nation's flag and the golden fields of ripened corn unify our country, the FFA colors of national blue and corn gold give unity to the organization. All FFA functions and paraphernalia should proudly display the colors.
The blue corduroy jacket of the FFA has been the official dress since 1933. Members are required to wear it at all leadership conferences and conventions, and for some CDE’s. A limited number of Alumni jackets are available for any member to use, but if they wish to purchase their own they need to see an FFA advisor to be fitted. The advisor will order the jacket from the National FFA Organization, and payment of $65.00 is required to take it home. Custom tailored jackets cost $95, and may be necessary for students with special fitting requirements. Members will also need to purchase black pants/skirts, white dress shirts, and an FFA Scarf or Tie to complete the outfit. These may also be ordered from the National FFA Organization for an additional fee (www.ShopFFA.org), or purchased locally from another retailer.
1. The jacket is to be worn only by members.
2. The jacket should be kept clean and neat.
3. The back of the jacket should have only a large official FFA emblem, the name of the state and the name of the local chapter, region, district or area. The front of the jacket should have only a small official FFA emblem, the name of the individual, one office or honor and the year of that office or honor.
4. The jacket should be worn on official occasions with the zipper fastened to the top. The collar should be turned down and the cuffs buttoned.
5. The jacket should be worn by members and officers on all official FFA occasions, as well as other occasions where the chapter or state association is represented. It may be worn to school and other appropriate places.
6. The jacket should only be worn to places that are appropriate for members to visit.
7. School letters and insignia of other organizations should not be attached to or worn on the jacket.
8. When the jacket becomes faded and worn, it should be discarded or the emblems and lettering removed.
9. The emblems and lettering should be removed if the jacket is given or sold to a non-member.
10. A member should act professionally when wearing the FFA jacket.
11. Members should refrain from use of tobacco and alcohol when underage at all times when representing the FFA. In addition, members should exhibit their leadership qualities when they encounter substances including tobacco and alcohol and serve to discourage others from inappropriate behavior.
How it began...
1928: Future Farmers of America is established in Kansas City, Mo. First National FFA Convention is held in Kansas City, Mo.: 33 delegates from 18 states (Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Nebraska, New Jersey, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, Utah, Virginia, Wisconsin) are in attendance.
How it's going...
Today: FFA membership today is comprised of 700,170 student members in grades seven through 12 who belong to one of 8,612 local FFA chapters throughout the United States, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
FFA degrees are awarded to members as they grow and achieve milestones in their agricultural education journey. Each degree recognizes increased involvement, leadership, knowledge, and commitment to their Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) project.
As members progress through FFA, they have the opportunity to earn degrees at the chapter, state, and national levels. Each degree reflects dedication, personal growth, and active participation in FFA activities, community service, and agricultural learning.
Awarded to middle school members, the Discover Degree introduces students to FFA and recognizes their early involvement and understanding of the organization.
The Greenhand Degree is earned by first-year high school members who demonstrate knowledge of FFA, develop an SAE, and begin participating in chapter activities.
The Chapter Degree recognizes members who have shown commitment through active participation, leadership development, and growth in their SAE project.
The White Rose Degree honors members at the county level who demonstrate leadership, community involvement, and continued progress in their agricultural experience.
The Keystone Degree is the highest degree awarded at the state level and recognizes significant achievement in leadership, academics, and a well-developed SAE program.
The American Degree is the highest honor in FFA, awarded at the national level to members who demonstrate exceptional dedication, leadership, and outstanding SAE accomplishments.
FFA members conduct themselves at all times to be a credit to their organization, chapter, school, community and family. FFA members pledge to:
Develop my potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success.
Make a positive difference in the lives of others.
Dress neatly and appropriately for the occasion.
Respect the rights of others and their property.
Be courteous, honest and fair with others.
Communicate in an appropriate, purposeful and positive manner.
Demonstrate good sportsmanship by being modest in winning and generous in defeat.
Make myself aware of FFA programs and activities and be an active participant.
Conduct and value a supervised agricultural experience program.
Strive to establish and enhance my skills through agricultural education in order to enter a successful career.
Appreciate and promote diversity in our organization.
Adopted by the Delegates at the 1952 National FFA Convention. Revised by the Delegates at the 1995 National FFA Convention.