Marengo FFA shines at leadership conference

MARENGO — The Marengo FFA chapter represented its community at the FFA Washington Leadership Conference June 10-16 in Washington, D.C.

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Kathryn Kilgard, Jackson Slaymaker, Carli Kanke and Myla Frimml joined more than 1,700 FFA members from across the U.S. for one of the six weeklong events.

For more than five decades, the Washington Leadership Conference has been a cornerstone of the FFA experience. It brings together young agricultural minded leaders from across the country to engage with legislators, develop civic and leadership skills and create impactful community projects.

The attendees participated in workshops, seminars and small group activities while exploring key national landmarks, including the National Mall, Arlington National Cemetery, the Smithsonian Museums and the U.S. Capitol.

A highlight of the week was the opportunity for FFA members to meet with their state legislators. Kilgard, Slaymaker, Kanke and Frimml discussed agricultural concerns and community challenges with Iowa Senators Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst.

Each day of the conference was themed around a core principle — exploration, encouragement, advocacy and service — allowing members to deeply engage with the history and functions of their nation’s capital.

The capstone of the conference was the development of a Living to Serve Plan — a community service project designed by each participant to be implemented upon their return home.

"I enjoyed meeting people from all over the country and seeing the history of our nation. I learned that I can make a difference in the world and created a Living to Serve action plan,“ said Kanke.

"I met some incredible, like-minded people and learned how significant one change can be on a person, group, community, and the world. WLC was not the end but the beginning of my journey,“ said Kilgard.

"The WLC was an exceptional experience where I not only formed new friendships but also gained valuable leadership skills,“ said Slaymaker.

“Visiting the monuments in Washington, D.C., was a highlight, especially the Korean War Memorial and the Museum of Natural History."

"I found value in visiting the memorials in Washington, D.C., and participating in the leadership sessions,“ Frimml said.

As they return to Marengo, the students are prepared to put their plans into action, supported by their FFA chapter adviser, Marcia Kilgard.

Their participation in WLC has equipped them with the knowledge, skills and inspiration to lead their peers in service and continue the proud tradition of FFA leadership.