Top Highlights of South Dakota FFA Convention 2025

By Scout Nelson

The South Dakota FFA Association is gearing up for its 97th Annual State FFA Convention, set to take place from April 3-5, 2025, at the Dacotah Bank Center and South Dakota State University (SDSU) campus in Brookings. Themed “Never Settle,” this event serves as the premier gathering for FFA members statewide, recognizing their achievements and leadership in agriculture.

The convention will be led by the 2024-2025 State FFA Officers, including President Maya Howard (Miller), Vice President Raul Berrones Pedraza (Milbank), Secretary Ethan Hendricks (Rapid City), Treasurer Bailey Weegar (Viborg-Hurley), and Reporter Hailey Kizer (Howard). More than 2,000 attendees, including members, advisors, and guests, will participate in leadership activities, competitions, and career-focused events.

Key Highlights of the Convention:

• Career Carnival: Featuring 55 exhibitors, including agricultural businesses and educational institutions, offering networking and career opportunities.
• Meals of Hope: Attendees will package 55,000 meals for Feeding South Dakota, emphasizing FFA’s commitment to service.
• Leadership Workshops: Sessions led by industry professionals from organizations such as Farm Credit Services of America, USDA Risk Management, and National FFA Officers will focus on leadership and professional development.
• Career Development Events (CDEs): Competitions will test students’ skills in areas like agronomy, livestock evaluation, food science, and agricultural mechanics.
• Throughout the three-day event, four award sessions will honor outstanding FFA members and supporters.

Key recognitions include:

• State FFA Degree: Presented to 324 members, marking the highest achievement at the state level.
• Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) Awards: Recognizing members excelling in hands-on agricultural projects.
• Scholarships: Supporting students pursuing careers in agriculture.
• Keynote Speakers: Inspiring addresses from Melvin Adams and National FFA Officer Jack Lingenfelter.
• Installation of 2025-2026 State Officers and Ambassadors.

Photo Credit: south-dakota-ffa