By: Charles Parker, California Department of Education, State FFA Advisor
As I sit here I can’t help but think back to last week when we welcomed some 6,000 FFA members, advisors, and guests to Sacramento for the 94th Annual State FFA Leadership Conference. After two years of alternative conferences, it was exciting to once again have an in-person event.
As I stood in the back of the arena prior to the opening session, I could not help but reflect on what we had missed the past two years. Most certainly as I looked around the arena, I could not help but become a bit emotional.
Even being in a position to meet in Sacramento was a team effort. The many meetings, conversations, and changes that have occurred in the past few months were important in putting together the 2022 conference. There was more than one occasion when I was not sure if we would be able to meet at all.
The conference itself was the result of a total team effort. With that in mind, I want to extend my sincere thanks to the many individuals who joined in the planning and delivery of the 2022 State Conference.
First, a BIG thank you to the teachers who, under unusual circumstances, trusted that we were doing everything we could to pull off the annual celebration of California FFA. It seemed that each week new details were shared that changed what was being planned. Teachers asked questions and served as the conduit for information. We appreciate the support and comments. What teachers accomplished in the past few months is a testament to their fortitude. I am forever grateful for the work agriculture teachers do.
Mr. Mooney put together an arena staff that worked well together to ensure that the sessions were run efficiently and that members and honorees were recognized in a professional manner. Working two jobs for much of the year, Mr. Mooney delivered a State Leadership Conference in a new venue that made us all proud. His leadership with the State FFA Officers was evidenced by their performance both on and off the stage. Thank you is most certainly not enough to show how appreciative we are of the work he has done.
However, Mr. Mooney was not the only individual who went beyond their normal work to help in the delivery of the conference. Taline, Sarah and Jennifer from Mosaic were instrumental in us being in a position to even have an in-person event. Their continued belief in what we do was heartwarming. I appreciate their guidance through the many steps as we navigated the ever-changing health and safety requirements.
Toosje Koll and the FFA Foundation Board were with us at every turn. They were instrumental in finding volunteers to help in a myriad of events. In addition, their commitment to the program was evident by their continued success in finding donors so that we could provide awards, industry tours, and a career expo. So often the FFA Foundation is behind the scenes providing what is needed. We are thankful that they are there to support our students and programs.
It should also be noted that the FFA Center staff of Trisha, Kerry, Maria, Jennifer, Cari, Maureen, and Matt were there every step of the way. We are very thankful for the numerous hours they shared both before and during the annual conference. They are a remarkable group and one that I am glad is on our team.
To Jasmine, Roman, Genevieve, Serena, and the rest of the support crew that operated behind the scenes, THANK YOU for taking time from your “real work” to help in pulling off this unique celebration. We know that without this group of dedicated individuals, the sessions would not have even happened. This group returning to help is a showcase of the quality of individuals that we have the privilege to work with.
I also want to express my appreciation to my staff. Jill, JessaLee, Jackie, Shay, Greg, and Hugh have taken on many new assignments over the past few months, worked exceptionally hard in meeting the many new deadlines, and guided the many aspects of the conference. Even in tough times, they continued to support our goals and push us through to the finish line. I could not ask for a more selfless and dedicated group of individuals. I am truly honored to be able to work with and spend time with each one of these outstanding individuals.
Finally, to those that are not mentioned, and there are many of them, we know it takes a village to pull off an event of this size. I wish I could list every name to share just how broad the support was. We thank you for making the sacrifices to be part of our extravaganza.
I sincerely hope that everyone knows just how much we appreciate them and value their contribution. In the end, I trust that they will accept my simple thank you as a symbol of my gratitude.
THANK YOU!