ABOUT MICHIGAN FFA
Our Story
Michigan FFA is a dynamic student leadership organization that prepares young people for success through Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources (AFNR) education. Through hands-on learning, leadership development, and real-world experiences, students gain the skills, confidence, and connections needed to thrive in their future.
With more than 10,000 members across Michigan, FFA empowers students to discover their passions, develop career-ready skills, serve their communities, and become the next generation of leaders in agriculture and beyond.
Our Vision
Growing the next generation of leaders who will change the world.
Our Mission
FFA makes a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education.
Our Difference
What makes Michigan FFA unique is that it is part of a complete Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources (AFNR) education program. Rather than existing as a standalone student organization, FFA works alongside classroom and laboratory instruction and Supervised Agricultural Experiences (SAEs) to create a comprehensive learning model.
Together, these three connected experiences help students apply what they learn in the classroom, develop technical and leadership skills, explore career interests, and prepare for success long after graduation. It's an approach that sets AFNR education apart—and one that prepares students to lead in school, careers, and life.
Every year, Michigan FFA members make a measurable difference through experiential learning, leadership development, and service. These numbers represent just a snapshot of the impact our members create across Michigan.
Impact
Members generated more than $9.4 million through Supervised Agricultural Experiences (SAEs), turning classroom learning into real-world success.
Members logged more than 70,000 hours participating in leadership experiences that built confidence and prepared them to lead.
Members dedicated more than 20,000 hours serving their communities through meaningful projects and initiatives.
TRADITION MEETS TOMORROW
For nearly a century, Michigan FFA has grown alongside agriculture, education, and the students it serves. Each generation has built upon the work of those before them, creating a legacy of leadership, service, and opportunity that continues to shape the future.
Establishing Tradition
Michigan Agricultural College establishes one of the nation's first agricultural teacher education programs, laying the foundation for agricultural education in Michigan.
B.A. Walpole organizes the Agricolae Club at Ypsilanti High School, creating the student organization recognized as the foundation of Michigan FFA.
Delegates from across Michigan vote to officially charter the Michigan Association of Future Farmers of America during Junior Farmers Week at Michigan State College.
Growing Together
Michigan FFA and the New Farmers of America unite, strengthening opportunities for students across the state.
Girls are welcomed into FFA membership, opening new opportunities for leadership, personal growth, and career success.
The Michigan FFA Alumni Association is established, creating new opportunities for members to continue supporting agricultural education beyond graduation.
Investing in Tomorrow
The Michigan FFA Foundation is established to strengthen opportunities for students, teachers, and chapters through philanthropic support.
The National FFA Organization changes its name from the Future Farmers of America to the National FFA Organization, reflecting the expanding opportunities and diverse careers found in agriculture.
Michigan FFA celebrates 100 years of developing leaders while honoring its past and preparing for the future.
A century of students, educators, and supporters has shaped Michigan FFA into the organization it is today. The milestones above represent generations who believed in the power of agricultural education and created a legacy that continues to inspire our work.
As Michigan FFA approaches its centennial, we proudly honor our past while preparing the next generation to lead, serve, and succeed.
Michigan FFA's first state officers, elected following the chartering of the Michigan Association of Future Farmers of America in 1929.
Pictured left to right: Harry Gibson, Treasurer; Charles Gill, Executive Committee; Berwyn Pemberton, Executive Committee; Lewis Taylor, Secretary; Edward Strenzel, Representative; Keith Tanner, President; E. E. Gallup, Advisor; and Frank Swagart, Vice President.
Guided by our Strategic Plan, Michigan FFA is investing in the next generation of agricultural leaders through innovative programs, meaningful partnerships, and opportunities that prepare students for a changing world.
Together, we are building on nearly a century of excellence while embracing new ideas that strengthen agricultural education and ensure every student has the opportunity to lead, grow, and succeed.
