By Gracie Hodges and Ava Sneller | Special to the times Vedette
Nine members of the ACGC FFA Chapter embarked on a high-energy journey Oct. 28-31, culminating in the 98th National FFA Convention and Expo in Indianapolis, where more than 73,000 attendees gathered, creating a reported $41 million economic impact for the host city.
The week began early Tuesday morning as the chapter departed Audubon for a series of industry site visits. Their first stop was KINZE Manufacturing, where members received an overview of the company’s history and operations and even took part in building grain carts. Next, the group visited the Kalona Cheese Factory and the surrounding Amish country, learning about dairy-product processing and browsing the local grocery store. Following lunch at Brenneman Pork, students toured the pork-production facility to examine commercial hog-industry growth and infrastructure. The day concluded with a thrill at “The Darkness” haunted-house attraction in St. Louis, Missouri.
Wednesday morning began at the Animal Export Center at St. Louis Lambert Airport, where students learned about livestock export logistics. Later, the chapter visited Anheuser‑Busch to explore fermentation processes and meet the iconic Clydesdale horses. The day ended at Busch Stadium, home of the St. Louis Cardinals, where students toured the stadium and on the way to Indianapolis, paused for a photo at the nearby Gateway Arch.
Thursday marked “Convention Day” with convention activities kicking off in the morning. Students attended the opening session and listened to the keynote address by A’ric Jackson about breaking out of your box and being you unapologetically. This was followed by peer-speaking sessions and engagement with more than 100 educational booths at the College and Career Show. The national event reportedly offered 141 workshops (102 student-focused, 39 teacher-focused) and hosted more than 300 exhibitors representing agriculture, manufacturing, technology and education sectors. Attendees also experienced the signature blue jacket tradition and networked with fellow members from across the nation, underscoring the convention’s theme of leadership, growth and opportunity.
Beyond the tours and fun, the trip gave ACGC FFA members a chance to connect classroom learning with real-world industry — from manufacturing and dairy to pork production and logistics. Entering the national convention provided access to thousands of peers, mentors and exhibitors, reinforcing the chapter’s dedication to agricultural education and leadership development. The national convention’s record attendance of more than 73,000 participants underscores the vitality of youth engagement in agriculture.