Seven individuals fresh out of high school began their journey as Indiana FFA state officers nearly one year ago. They complete that journey as they present the Indiana FFA Convention June 19-22 at Purdue University in West Lafayette. Then they embark on a new journey as individuals — the rest of their lives!

Recently, each prepared a unique memory to share with Indiana Prairie Farmer readers:

Seth Ariens, president, North Putnam FFA. I’ve discovered that traveling the state to visit chapters has been my absolute favorite part. Whether it be for a banquet, facilitation or a petting zoo, having the opportunity to meet members in “their space” is a different experience. However, I find the community events to be the most rewarding. You get to visit with members of that community and see how they are impacted by that FFA chapter.

The Central Noble Fish Fry comes to mind. It was overwhelmingly welcoming with all the people in attendance. The event was so rewarding to see how an FFA chapter serves its community and the support that the community provides. It was truly a full-circle event that speaks to my values as a state officer. I will always look forward to attending chapter events, no matter the experience.

Tobias Sturgell, secretary, Indian Creek FFA. One of my favorite memories from state office was when we drove to Washington, D.C., for the state officer summit. We left the Indiana FFA Leadership Center at 4 a.m. to ensure we made it to D.C. by 4 p.m. The first 3.5 hours were terrible — practically everyone but staff and I fell asleep.

It also didn’t help that Skylar Clingan, an advisor, had a terrible choice in music. Once we were a good way through West Virginia, he allowed us to request music. Me loving to sing, I would belt out every song I knew and every song I didn't know. What made this memorable was how much we bonded as a team and staff while being trapped in a car for 10 hours, when there isn’t much to do but sleep, sing, talk and look out the window.

Mary Jones, Northern Region vice president, Adams Central FFA. When I decided to run for state office, my goal was to impact Indiana FFA members in a positive way. I hoped I could be the same role model for others that I often found in past officers. Little did I know that instead, students would have a much greater impact on me.

One of the most outstanding memories came during our very last conference. After each of my teammates and I delivered short remarks to reflect on our lives, we were able to sit and chat with members about how they could relate to what we shared. One specific member approached me and said she felt like God called her to pray for me and the rest of my year.

Her prayer was exactly what I needed. She may not have known it, but I was knee-deep in emotions as I realized how close we were getting to the end of our year. I was fearful that I hadn't made an impact yet, and I was worried I didn't have enough time left. Her words gave me the peace and confirmation I needed to not fear the end, but rather look back and appreciate the memories and friendships I had gained. She reminded me that even if it was only one member I impacted, that was God’s purpose for allowing me to serve Indiana FFA this past year.

Jenna Kelsay, Southern Region vice president, Whiteland FFA. This year has been filled with smiles, new friends and lifelong memories. However, FFA Week is something I will never forget. Traveling over 1,000 miles, visiting 15 chapters and meeting so many new people, this was my favorite week of the entire year.

I had a lot of fun, doing things like attempting to barrel race in Ag Olympics with Rushville FFA. I shared my love of FFA with students when speaking at a schoolwide pep session at Blue River Valley, and with adults at Leadership Jefferson County. Memories made and people met could fill an entire magazine. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities. I hope I was able to make even a small portion of the impact Indiana FFA has made on me.

Anthony Taylor, treasurer, Warsaw FFA. During FFA Week, I visited Maconaquah FFA Chapter for their Ag Olympics event. When I arrived, students asked if I was interested in wearing the costume for my Olympics team. Little did I know that the costume consisted of a blue tutu, long blue baseball socks, blue sunglasses and a plastic blue whistle. Already saying yes, I did not want to back out. So, I was throwing the farthest in the hay toss wearing a blue tutu. We enjoyed many laughs.

Gracie Lee, reporter, Monroe Central FFA. My most memorable moment was facilitating the Purdue Young Women in Ag Conference during FFA Week. I helped over 120 young women identify and overcome challenges that they have faced. When I think of an impact, I truly believe that I left a large one that day. When I asked them to write down people who’ve impacted them, I saw some of the same names that made an impact on me. I will always be so grateful for the amazing experiences that I’ve been given this year. From gaining six new “siblings” to leaving my mark on Indiana FFA, it has been an amazing ride.

Jaden Maze, sentinel, Western Boone FFA. One highlight that sticks out is National FFA Convention. I competed at the national level for prepared public speaking. That is an experience I will never forget. I was grateful for the opportunity to grow my skills and see my hard work pay off.