Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack addressed students, agricultural educators, and guests at the opening session of the 96th National FFA Convention and Expo.
In his remarks, Secretary Vilsack shared USDA’s vision to secure the future of American agriculture and opportunities for the next generation of agricultural leaders. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that farms of all sizes have the opportunity to succeed.
While at the convention, Vilsack and Scott Stump, chief executive officer of the National FFA Organization, signed a Memorandum of Understanding to underscore the Department’s commitment to youth in agriculture.
USDA commited to building awareness of the reach and importance of agriculture across multiple fields and disciplines, as well as communicating available USDA internship opportunities to the National FFA Organization members and alumni. USDA will also identify areas where a student or youth perspective may benefit USDA programs and resources and engage with FFA to provide such representation.
Under the MOU, the National FFA Organization agrees to attract, educate, inspire, and equip students with the tools needed to succeed.
Approximately 70,000 FFA members and supporters are attending the convention.
