Panorama FFA students
Special to the Times Vedette
Students from Panorama FFA and ACGC FFA recently attended the FFA National Convention in Indianapolis. Panorama’s group included 10 members who visited Churchill Downs, Louisville Slugger, the Indianapolis Speedway and more attractions.
The article below was submitted by ACGC FFA:
Nine members of the ACGC FFA Chapter traveled to Indianapolis, Indiana, Oct. 20-23 to attend the 2026 National FFA Convention and Expo. Members attending included Meranda Gruber, Tessa Slaybaugh, Aaron Langgaard, Coy Gruber, Cora Fluharty, Carrie Downing, Taryn Carroll, Tatum Brittian and Calleigh Wolfe.
ACGC traveled alongside 42 other FFA members, making a total of 51 students and advisors on a charter bus that departed from the Audubon school parking lot at 7 a.m. The trip provided members with an opportunity to explore new places, learn more about agriculture and connect with FFA members from other chapters.
The first destination was Chicago, following a six-hour bus ride. While in Chicago, members visited the Shedd Aquarium, where they had approximately two hours to explore the exhibits and learn about aquatic wildlife. Students were able to see a variety of fish and marine animals, as well as participate in interactive exhibits, including opportunities to touch stingrays and sturgeon. One highlight was the large viewing windows overlooking Lake Michigan and the surrounding Chicago skyline.
After visiting the aquarium, the group traveled to Cloud Gate, commonly known as “The Bean,” before heading to Willis Tower. Members had the opportunity to visit the Skydeck on the 103rd floor of the 110-story building, standing 1,353 feet above the ground and experiencing incredible views of the Chicago skyline.
Tuesday evening was spent exploring Navy Pier, giving members additional time to experience the city. On Wednesday morning, the group visited the Field Museum before traveling to The Farm on Ogden. This visit provided students with an opportunity to learn more about urban agriculture and how agricultural production and food systems operate in an urban environment. The group also enjoyed a meal at Portillo’s before taking a tour of the historic Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs.
Thursday marked the group’s arrival in Indianapolis for the National FFA Convention and Expo. Members attended the opening session, listened to the keynote speaker, and explored the National FFA Career and College Fair. These activities allowed students to learn about future career opportunities, explore postsecondary education options, and connect with individuals and organizations involved in the agriculture industry.
Thursday evening wrapped up with some chapter bonding at Indy Scream Park before the group began its journey home Friday morning.
Overall, the National FFA Convention trip provided the ACGC members with an unforgettable opportunity to experience new places, explore different areas of agriculture, and strengthen relationships with fellow FFA members. From exploring the city of Chicago to attending one of the largest student leadership conventions in the country, members returned home with new experiences, memories and a deeper appreciation for the opportunities available through agricultural education and FFA.
Panorama FFA students visit the Louisville Slugger factory.
ACGC FFA students visit the Shedd Aquarium.
ACGC FFA students bone-up on history.