FFA members from chapters across the state visited Des Moines earlier this week to attend the 33rd Annual Legislative Symposium and meet with lawmakers for FFA Day at the Capitol. More than 500 members attended the event, including seven students from Audubon High School. Chapter President, Aaron Gust, and Chapter Vice President, Grace Christensen, were both in that group and visited Rep. Brian Best during the trip. Christensen says she has a strong sense of how government works, but having Best explain the process in detail was enlightening.
FFA members heard from prominent members of Iowa ag industry during the symposium. Iowa Farm Bureau President, Craig Hill, and Libby Crimmings of the World Food Prize spoke to students about the future and importance of Iowa agriculture. Gov. Kim Reynolds also addressed students and declared Feb. 18 through 25 as FFA Week in Iowa by signing a proclamation. Gust says the visit to the Capitol opened his eyes to the impact students can have in government.
Christensen encouraged other FFA members to contact their legislators. She says they should not underestimate their influence as members.
Eighty school districts were represented during the event. The 33rd Annual Iowa FFA Legislative Symposium and FFA Day at the Capitol was made possible through the Iowa FFA Foundation with support from the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation.
