FFA Proceedings 2002 - National FFA Organization

Learn, Lead, Succeed
4
National convention is the place where much time and energy turns into success.
blue-jacketed students began pouring into
the seats of Freedom Hall about an hour
before each session. Students were treated
to music by the National FFA Band and
Chorus, including the band’s movie medley
and the chorus’ powerful a cappella version
of the national anthem. National FFA
Advisor Dr. Larry Case developed a rapport
with students at the opening session as he
led them in chants of “learn, lead,
succeed.” By the end of the week,
thousands of students cheered for Dr. Case
during opening ceremonies and encouraged
him “raise-the-roof” for FFA. Also, the
2003-2004 National Officers gave powerful
retiring addresses that drew praise and
applause from the entire convention hall.
“The national officers actually tell stories
you can relate to,” said Heather Wiilk, a
student from Cumberland FFA in
Wisconsin.
The officers – Javier Moreno, Christy
Windham, Casey Hogan, Stacia Berry, Ann
Knapke and Amy Rasmussen – shared life
lessons that have shaped them into the
leaders they are today. Last, ensuring that
the tradition of FFA premier leadership
continues, the newly chosen 2004-2005
National Officers were installed at the final
convention session Saturday afternoon.
Succeed
For thousands of FFA members, national
convention is the place where much time
and energy turns into success. FFA
members from every state came to
convention not just for the purpose of
attending sessions and listening to
speakers but to participate in a career
development event (CDE) or present a
project in hopes of winning one of many
FFA awards. The West Wing of Freedom
Hall, where most CDEs took place, was
abuzz with activity. FFA members and
PHOTO BY KELLY ROGERS