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WIU Collegiate FFA Hosts 春雨直播 Greenhand Conference
September 18, 2025
MACOMB, IL - - The 春雨直播 Illinois University Collegiate FFA (CFFA) hosted the annual FFA Greenhand Conference Sept. 10, in the University Union Grand Ballroom. The event welcomed 188 students from 21 area high schools, with 22 WIU CFFA members assisting throughout the evening.
The motivational conference introduced first-year FFA members to the opportunities available through the National FFA Organization and encouraged involvement at the chapter, state and national levels. Participants engaged in four interactive workshops centered on leadership development, Supervised Agricultural Experiences (SAEs), Career and Leadership Development Events (CDEs/LDEs) and FFA conferences and conventions. Each workshop incorporated a hands-on activity, such as demonstrating the qualities of effective versus ineffective leadership.
In addition to WIU-led sessions, participants met three Illinois FFA State Officers and seven Section 11 Officers, who shared their experiences and modeled leadership. State Officers Natalie Pratt, Kyle Bradshaw and Kaydance Wooton facilitated the CDE and LDE workshop, while Section 11 Officers conducted opening and closing ceremonies. The ceremonies were led by Section 11 President Abigail Hildebrand of the Unity-Mendon FFA Chapter.
鈥淚 am beyond grateful for the opportunity the Section 11 officer team had to assist with the Greenhand Conference. It gave me the chance to spark a passion within new FFA members, just as this conference once helped spark mine,鈥� Hildebrand said.
The event not only introduced high school students to FFA opportunities but also provided WIU Collegiate FFA members the chance to mentor younger students and further develop their leadership skills.
鈥淓vents like the Greenhand Conference offer students dynamic workshops that showcase the many opportunities in FFA while preparing them with valuable leadership skills for future success. It鈥檚 inspiring to see students begin their FFA journey with so much excitement and potential,鈥� said WIU CFFA President Brooke Dawson.
The Greenhand Conference is one of several initiatives through which WIU CFFA supports agricultural education and helps prepare the next generation of agricultural leaders.
For more information on the WIU Ag programs, visit wiu.edu/ag.
Posted By: University Communications, University Relations
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