For decades, FFA chapters from across the country celebrate National FFA week.
The week begins on President George Washington’s birthday, Sunday Feb. 22, commemorating his dedication to agriculture. Here in Michigan, State FFA President Haili Gusa of Ubly is looking forward to celebrating the busy week ahead.
“My teammates and I are going to do personal posts about why we’re grateful for the FFA, and why we love FFA,” she said. “[We’re also going to be] supporting and hearing about what chapters around the state are doing. A lot of chapters are doing dress up days—like a spirit week but for FFA.”
In addition to gearing up for National FFA Week, Gusa is busy planning and putting the final touches on the Michigan State FFA Convention, which will be held in less than two weeks in at MSU.
“I built relationships with so many people this year across the state, and I’m doing to be excited to see a majority of those people all in one place,” she said.
She’s also been helping her younger brother, who is preparing for his first Creed competition at the state convention.
“Being able to help him a little bit and watch him at the district level was a cool moment,” said Gusa. “I’m really proud of him and it’s cool to see where he started and know he has much potential to go great places.”
Gusa is a freshman at Central Michigan University and is studying communications. She’s hoping to land a job in leadership once she graduates, honing her skills she’s learned through FFA. Since her favorite part about being in FFA is the relationships she’s building, it should be a perfect fit.
“My favorite part of FFA as a whole, local or state, are the people—getting to meet all different kinds of people,” said Gusa. “In my chapter, building relationships with members, making friends that are members, and helping younger members along the FFA journey.
State FFA officer terms begin in July. Since holding the position, Gusa has visited several farms, an ethanol plant, and other agriculture-related businesses; a team retreat; contests; and visiting local FFA chapters. Her last day in office will be June 30.
National FFA week ends Feb. 29.
