At the end of this week, Adam Kirby will pass the gavel to the 2016-17 Missouri FFA President. I sat down with Kirby and asked a few parting questions from his year as state president.

Who was the first person you texted after being named Missouri State FFA President?

KIRBY: My advisor Mr. Oaks to ask if Mrs. Kreatz was crying. Mrs. Kreatz was always that one that pushed me hard. But, I needed it. She was always composed, but this time she was crying.

What was one FFA experience you will never forget?

Adam Kirby

KIRBY: Week 5 of FFA camp. It is called the "cursed week" because something bad always seems to happen. This week was no different. The water and electric were out; the lake flooded, and there was damaging storms with lightening. Then the tornado sirens sent us for cover. At Camp Rising Sun, you can go to the basement of the recreation hall or kitchen. Another state officer, two advisors and I chose the rec hall, along with 150 campers. The windows were closed. It was hot. There were kids crying, some scared and we had to figure out what to do. So, we spent three hours playing games like duck-duck-goose and doing icebreakers. It actually turned out fun.

When FFA members hear your name, what is one word you hope comes to mind?

KIRBY: Caring. I want them to know how much I care about them. During my time as Missouri State FFA President, I tried to put the members first. I listened to them and encouraged them. My Trenton FFA members and advisors cared for me as an individual. That is so important. In the FFA, we need to care about each other.

How will people look back at the 2015-16 state FFA officer team?

KIRBY: We faced challenges as a team, but we pushed through. We are better because we have been through so much together. I hope they see us as dedicated and hardworking. We had to work to get where we are today.

What is next for Adam Kirby?

KIRBY: I will continue my education at Mizzou. However, I may buck tradition and run for a national officer this year. Many wait a year after being past state president, but I would like to continue serving in the FFA. It would be fun to have more opportunities to share about agriculture, agriculture education and FFA with those outside of our industry.