I remember the video vividly, my nieces and nephews standing in front of the TV at their home waiting. Then, total eruption. Cheering, jumping and dancing. I laughed, then cried as they heard my girl’s name and watched her walk across the stage to receive her American FFA degree.

Their reaction was priceless. Kudos to my brother and sister-in-law for capturing it. It was a moment to celebrate after years of hard work. And it makes you think, if only we all celebrated our outstanding Missouri FFA members like that during the National FFA Convention. Good news, we can.

The National FFA Convention and Expo starts today, and Missouri is well represented with an impressive:

Click through the photo gallery to learn more about those representing the Show-Me State this year.

I’m certainly proud of these young people who put themselves out there to learn another skill, master it and ultimately find success. I know you are as well.

Join me this week as we cheer them on. Whether in person or from the comfort of your couch, jump up and pump that fist as our Missouri FFA members make us proud!