Sul Ross State University is set to host an influx of young agricultural enthusiasts as more than 100 high school students from the Future Farmers of America (FFA) are scheduled to visit the university’s Alpine campus not once, but twice, in the month of September.
On Monday, September 11, 2023, a group of 116 eager freshman students, embarking on their first year of agriculture classes, will convene for the “Greenhand Day” conference tailored for beginners. These aspiring agriculturists will journey from Alpine, Fort Stockton, Crane, Iraan, Pecos, and Wink to participate in a day filled with educational activities.
The agenda for the day includes friendly competitions, both within and across FFA chapter groups, designed to foster camaraderie and skill development. Additionally, students will engage in sessions focusing on personal and organizational leadership, as well as workshops aimed at building their understanding of the wide array of opportunities offered through school-based agricultural education and FFA programs, spanning from local to national levels.
Just one week later, on Monday, September 18, Sul Ross State University will once again open its doors to the FFA community, this time hosting the FFA Big Bend District fall meeting. District officers will preside over a business meeting, addressing key action items and providing updates stemming from the Texas FFA convention held in Dallas last July. In addition to these formal proceedings, students ranging from 9th through 12th grades will partake in social activities, further strengthening the bonds within the FFA community.
The Big Bend District encompasses schools from across the region, including Alpine, Balmorhea, Buena Vista, Crane, Fort Davis, Fort Stockton, Iraan, Pecos, and Wink. This gathering promises to be a significant opportunity for students to network, collaborate, and learn from their peers while gaining valuable insights into the world of agriculture and FFA.
For those seeking more information about these educational events or the FFA initiatives at Sul Ross State University, they are encouraged to contact Dr. Carl Igo, associate professor of agriculture, via email at carl.igo@sulross.edu. These campus visits not only provide valuable experiences for the FFA students but also highlight Sul Ross State University’s commitment to fostering agricultural education and supporting future leaders in the field.
