FFA state convention starts July 6

From the comfort of home, Wisconsin FFA members and the general public can celebrate chapter achievements through the first-ever online State FFA Convention.

Collin Weltzien, Wisconsin FFA State president, and his 2019-2020 officer team are gearing up for the 91st Wisconsin State FFA Convention, to be held online July 6-10. Local members and the public can log on to the Wisconsin FFA Facebook page, Instagram and/or the Wisconsin FFA website (wisconsinaged.org) to experience the event.

“We never would have imagined that we would be delivering our Wisconsin FFA Convention online, but we are excited about the events and announcements that we have planned throughout the week,” said Cheryl Zimmerman, Wisconsin FFA executive director. “Stay tuned each day, because we have a lot of fun experiences planned. ‘Rise Up, Stand Out’ is definitely an appropriate theme for this year’s convention as our state officers, members and advisers are overcoming many new challenges during this pandemic. State FFA Convention still provides everyone the opportunity to celebrate, even though this year it looks and feels differently.”

The Wisconsin FFA State Convention celebrates the accomplishments of outstanding award recipients. State FFA officers will share their personal messages throughout the week.

Monday kicks off with a welcome from National FFA Adviser Dr. James Woodard, chapter membership awards are announced, chapters are recognized for their community service and the winner of the state Middle School Essay contest centered around the theme, “Rise Up, Stand Out” is announced. Country recording artist Tenille Towneswill perform on Facebook Live at 7 p.m.

Tuesday begins with the keynote address by National FFA President Kolesen McCoy followed throughout the day by video presentations showcasing Supervised Agricultural Experiences of the members winning state proficiency awards and saluting the 2019-2020 awards sponsors. McCoy will offer a live workshop at 7 p.m.; members may sign up for the workshop through the Wisconsin Association of FFA Facebook page.

Wednesday and Thursday, finalists for Wisconsin Stars in Agribusiness, Agriscience, Ag Placement and Farmer will be introduced along with their programs. Wednesday 348 State Degrees recipients will be honored and the Wisconsin FFA Alumni is offering a workshop. Thursday will also highlight chapters recognized with National Chapter Awards and members earning Three Star Leader recognition.

On Friday, Agriscience Fair Award results are announced, the four Stars Over Wisconsin are named, parents of state officers will be recognized and a year in review program presented. Weltzien will present his retiring presidential address, and the 2020-2021 Wisconsin State Officer team will be introduced.