Marengo FFA attends 98th National FFA Convention

Members of the Marengo FFA Chapter joined more than 73,000 FFA members, advisers, and guests from across the country in Indianapolis, Indiana, for the 98th National FFA Convention and Expo Oct. 29 to Nov. 1.

This year’s event was the largest National FFA Convention in history.

Representing Iowa Valley were Kathryn Kilgard, Michaela Schachtlie, Delaney Stubblefield, Myla Frimml, Abby Sparrowgrove, Hailey Dietze, Will Sayers, Carter Koenig, Landon Kilgard, Mason McKusker, Ryker Helmrichs, Sherra Bonnichsen, Ogden Truempler, Hannah Smolik and Kennedy Thiessen.

They were accompanied by adviser Marcia Kilgard and chaperone Katrina Truempler.

The group began its week by attending the opening session which featured motivational speaker A’ric Jackson, who encouraged students to “live life at 110%” The night ended with a concert by country artist Ella Langley, creating a fun and memorable start to convention week.

On Thursday, members toured the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, explored the museum and took part in the tradition of “kissing the bricks.” Later that day, they attended the National FFA Career Expo, meeting with agricultural companies, colleges and organizations from across the country.

During the Second General Session, Chapter President Abby Sparrowgrove and Co-Vice President Kathryn Kilgard accepted the National Chapter Award on behalf of Marengo FFA. This national recognition honors chapters that excel in growing leaders, building communities and strengthening agriculture.

Students also heard from newly appointed U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins, a former Texas FFA State Officer, who shared her journey in agriculture and leadership. That evening, the chapter participated in a team-building challenge at Indy Escape Room.

On Friday, the group toured Ozark Fisheries, a fourth-generation family-owned goldfish and koi farm founded in 1926. They also returned to the Career Expo to explore additional opportunities in agriculture, business, education, and technology.

The convention concluded Saturday with a proud moment for Marengo FFA as Jestine Megchelsen received her American FFA Degree, the highest degree awarded by the National FFA Organization.

Earning the American Degree is an accomplishment achieved by less than 1% of members nationwide, recognizing years of dedication, leadership and community service.

The National FFA Convention and Expo offers students hands-on experiences, motivational speakers, leadership development and a celebration of agriculture’s future. Marengo FFA members returned home with new friendships, memories, and motivation to continue living the FFA motto, Learning to Do, Doing to Learn, Earning to Live, Living to Serve.