Indiana FFA officers list top attractions at 93rd National FFA Convention

INDIANAPOLIS — Even though the 93rd National FFA Convention won’t take place in the traditional format in downtown Indianapolis, the event, which will be held Oct. 27-29, will still take place — but virtually.

The 2020-2021 Indiana FFA state officers, who have had an unusual first few months in office due to restrictions on large group events to help slow the spread of COVID-19, are still looking forward to the convention.

“The National FFA has done an awesome job of making sure all components are still there,” said Kylie Schakel, Indiana FFA secretary.

The state officer team came up with a list of five events and sessions that FFA members should check out.

1. FFA Blue Room: Schakel said that the Blue Room 360, which has been huge new opportunity at the past few National FFA Conventions, will still be happening, only on a virtual platform. Since it will be available virtually, more FFA members from across the country will get the chance to check out the innovative attraction.

2. RFD-TV to broadcast convention: RFD-TV will be streaming all the different parts of the 93rd National FFA Convention, including the sessions where FFA members will be allowed to watch live.

3. Platform for networking: Schakel said that even though there won't be a traditional trade show and exposition, FFA members will still have the opportunity to connect with agriculture businesses and colleges and they will also have the chance to get free merchandise from companies.

4. Retiring addresses: Derick Williams, Indiana FFA reporter, said FFA members from across the country should tune in to the 2019-2020 National FFA officers' retiring addresses. Besides listening to their addresses, Williams said the officers will be on their social media accounts and will be messaging members back.

5. The FFA Store: Williams said one experience that is always popular at the convention is the FFA Mega Store. He said the online store has all kinds of FFA merchandise, ranging from blankets and pillows to shirts and cups.

For more information about the National FFA Convention, visit convention.ffa.org.