FFA members across Iowa celebrated success when they gathered for the 88th Iowa FFA Leadership Conference on April 17-19 at Iowa State University’s Hilton Coliseum in Ames, Iowa. The Iowa FFA State Leadership Conference is the 5th largest of its kind in the National FFA Organization.

“Amplify Boost Your Impact”, was the theme for this year’s convention and was geared toward supreme dedication to leadership, growth, and success. It encouraged members to boost their impact on their communities and the world. FFA gives you the tools to pump up your involvement and become a positive force for change.

The annual conference provided agricultural education students the opportunity to participate in Career Development Event competitions, be recognized for accomplishments in events during the past year, become inspired by motivational speakers, interact with college and business professionals, and develop leadership skills. Chapter delegates and Iowa FFA Officers conducted the annual business session to make decisions for the student-run Iowa FFA Association. Students engaged in a service project with Meals from the Heartland with a goal of packaging over 200,000 meals.

Several exciting guests were present at the 2016 Iowa FFA Leadership Conference. They included keynote speaker Dr. Rick Rigsby and National Officer address by Abrah Meyer. Other speakers included Governor Terry Branstad along with Lieutenant Governor Kim Reynolds and Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey.

The Iowa FFA State Leadership Conference is possible with support from the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation, Iowa State University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Farm Credit Services of America, Des Moines Area Community College and CHS Foundation.

The FFA participated in many events and received the following awards

Biotech team Silver Recognition team members Haydon Rhoads, Kat Wild and Stephanie Wallen

Poultry Bronze Recognition team members Addie Johnston, Mary Venega, Blake Henningsen, Austin Grimm

Reporter’s Scrapbook Bronze Recognition- Lauren Mosher

Farm Business Management Team Gold Recognition team members Kayla Mathews, Alyssa Mathews, Tiana Saak and Lauren Mosher

Creed Speaking Gold Recognition Leah Mosher

Adam Hoy Agriscience Category winner

Reegan Zinkula Agriscience Division winner

Lauren Mosher State Rising Star Award winner

Alex Thede State Band