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FFA members from across Iowa converged on the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines to build character and promote citizenship, volunteerism, and patriotism. More than 500 high school students wearing blue corduroy from 88 schools visited the Iowa State Capitol Building in Des Moines on January 21. The students visited with legislators, exhibited skills learned in the agriculture classroom and learned the importance of citizenship. This was all part of the 41st Annual Iowa FFA Legislative Symposium and FFA Day at the Capitol.

During the morning, FFA members gathered at the Downtown Embassy Suites for a brief greeting and tutorial. The program provided opportunities for FFA members to hear from Mike Naig, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture, about the importance of agriculture in Iowa and abroad. Iowa Farm Bureau Federation Vice President, BrianFeldpausch then delivered a message about the importance young agriculturalists can play in the agriculture industry. Jake Swanson from High Yield Strategies then spoke about the importance of advocating for the agricultural industry.

Mid-Prairie FFA members then traveled to the State Capitol to meet with local legislators and toured the building. State Sen., Dawn Driscoll, and State Representatives Heather Hora and Judd Lawler meet with Mid-Prairie FFA members and neighboring FFA programs to answer questions about legislative items. Attending from Mid-Prairie FFA were Tate Bombei, Brock Fisher, Adelyn Huston, Caedyn Huston, Averi Janecek, Destina Moyle, Conner O'Rourke and Harlee West along with Advisor Elsa Schmidt.

The Mid-Prairie FFA Chapter welcomed Iowa FFA State Officer Hannah Gross and District Officer Erica Driscoll to a chapter visit on January 30th, 2026. While at the high school, they discussed opportunities in FFA and the students participated in leadership-building activities.

During a year of service to the organization, Iowa FFA officers serve as ambassadors for agriculture and the FFA. They travel to FFA chapters throughout the state to connect with members and talk about the many opportunities available to students enrolled in agricultural education. Agricultural education incorporates three aspects of learning. The classroom provides basic knowledge. FFA develops leadership and personal skills. A Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) provides hands-on learning while working or in an agricultural business. The Iowa FFA Association comprises 273 local chapters preparing over 20,000 students for future career opportunities. FFA activities and award programs complement instruction in agricultural education by giving students practical experience in applying agricultural skills and knowledge gained in classes. Through agricultural education, FFA makes a positive difference in students' lives by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success.