Hundreds of National FFA members from throughout the country came together in Washington, D.C. for the annual FFA Leadership Conference to evaluate their skills and interests, develop leadership talent and create service plans that will make a difference in their local communities.     

Four Lorain County JVS FFA Chapter members, and students from the Industrial Equipment Mechanics and Landscape and Greenhouse Management programs, spent nearly one week at the conference. These students are Allison Dubber from Keystone, Emily McElheny from Amherst, Nate Sword from Wellington, and Vayda Wiles from Firelands. 

The capstone of the event is a civic engagement activity where students apply what they have learned in a hands-on activity. Lorain County JVS students gave back by packaging meals to go for people in need in the Washington D.C. community. 

The students also experienced the history of the nation's capital and toured landmarks including the National Mall, the American History Museum, the Washington Monument, the Library Congress, and the U.S. Capitol, among others.     

“I had a wonderful week in Washington, D.C.,” shared Dubber. “Meeting kids from all across the country and learning about our nation’s history was fantastic. I will always remember how eye-opening this experience was and how much joy it brought me.” 

Landscape and Greenhouse Management Instructor and FFA Advisor, Beth Berthold shared why she feels this trip is important for the students to take part in. “This conference allows our students to meet other students from around the country and network and learn from them. Students have the opportunity to work on their communication, leadership, and teamwork skills.”