Scheckel, Wiederholt attend FFA conference

Caitlin Scheckel, of the Central Heights FFA Chapter, and Brandon Wiederholt, of the Anderson County FFA Chapter, participated in the Kansas FFA District Officer Conference Aug. 15-16 at Rock Springs Ranch, Junction City.

Leadership, professionalism, and focus were key undertakings within the encompassing theme of “Leadership and Beyond” at this year’s conference. Just as each is required to accomplish a mission, district officers are expected to serve with these key challenges in mind as they strive to impact the lives of all they meet.

Throughout the year, they will serve FFA members across the state and encourage them to build leadership skills which allow them to be focused, determined citizens ready to complete many missions in life.

The conference began with a Blast Off experience, helping district officers recognize why they serve. Learning their own leadership styles allowed the officers a chance to better understand their team dynamics. The session following further explained how professionalism and first impressions play a role in influencing others.

The evening included a banquet with special guests, sponsored by the Kansas State University College of Agriculture. Inspiring words from Bethany Bohnenblust of Labette County, national officer candidate, and Fred Cholick, K-State Research and Extension and College of Agriculture dean and director, encouraged the officers in their endeavors. The district officers later focused on how they were going to positively influence members by honing their skills in classroom management, direction giving and workshop presenting.

Effective leaders know that small things matter. After all their hard work, the final mission of the conference was the Countdown to Lift Off.  Time management and prioritizing were discussed along with planning tools, communication and promoting state events.

The conference closed with an ice cream social sponsored by the Kansas FFA Alumni.