The Cardinal FFA Chapter has completed another highly active and successful year, marked by student leadership development, agricultural advocacy, community service, and hands-on learning experiences across southeast Iowa and beyond.

Since last year’s National FFA Week, chapter members have led and participated in numerous activities designed to promote agricultural literacy and strengthen community connections. One of the chapter’s signature outreach efforts was the annual Elementary Ag Day, where FFA members hosted Cardinal Elementary students for interactive learning stations focused on agriculture, food systems, and natural resources. The event is designed to build early awareness and understanding of the role agriculture plays in daily life.

Chapter members represented their school and community at both the Iowa FFA State Convention in Ames and the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, where they participated in leadership sessions, career exploration, and industry networking opportunities.

Local support has remained strong through chapter fundraising efforts. The annual spaghetti dinner and silent auction drew solid community participation, along with the chapter’s greenhouse flower sale, which gives students practical experience in plant science, production, and agribusiness management.

Students also demonstrated their commitment to agricultural excellence through livestock exhibition. Members showed animals at area county fairs and summer expos in July, as well as at the Iowa State Fair in August.

Leadership development has remained a priority. Chapter officers attended the Chapter Officer Leadership Training event in Cedar Rapids in June, followed by an officer retreat at Honey Creek Resort. During the retreat, officers focused on team building and strategic planning for the school year. To kick off the fall term, members hosted an ice cream social to welcome students back for the year.

Community service continues to be a cornerstone of the chapter. During harvest season, FFA members prepared and delivered lunches to local farmers and agricultural supporters. Members also expanded their industry knowledge by attending the Beef Education Day held in November on the campus of Iowa State University, where they participated in educational sessions covering beef production, animal health, and market trends.

Monthly chapter meetings throughout the year have featured guest speakers from across the agriculture industry, along with alumni who shared career experiences and leadership insights with current members.

The chapter is currently conducting its annual Valentine’s Day flower sale. Proceeds support student activities, travel, and program improvements.

Looking ahead, National FFA Week will include a chapter-sponsored food drive, themed dress-up days at the school, and a culminating appreciation breakfast prepared by members for teachers and community supporters.

Through these activities, the Cardinal FFA Chapter continues to promote agricultural education, leadership, and service while preparing students for future careers in the agriculture sector and related industries.

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