Session Two: Ignite Your Spark (April 4, 2025)
Hosted by the CA FFA State President and State Secretary
Guest Speaker: David Schapira, Chief Deputy Superintendent of Public Instruction
Special Guests: Charles Parker, California State FFA Advisor; Dr. Travis Park, National FFA Advisor
With over 6,724 members and guests present and 724 voting delegates officially recognized, chairs Gianna Gonzales (state secretary) and Camille Zavala (state president) officially called the session to order, welcoming regions across the state with spirited chants and cheers.
Guest speaker David Schapira, Chief Deputy Superintendent of Public Instruction, emphasized the importance of connecting classroom learning with hands-on experience. “Your passion for innovation and leadership is what keeps California agriculture programs sustainable for years to come,” remarked Schapira, applauding the impact of FFA in shaping future-ready students.
State FFA Advisor, Mr. Charles Parker, gave a heartfelt farewell, reflecting on his 45 years as an ag teacher and sharing memories from FFA’s rich history. Full of pride for our membership, he ended his speech with, “I am truly proud to call each of you a friend.”
The session also celebrated growth across the state with the announcement of new and reinstated chapters. New chapters include Firebaugh Middle, Galt-McCaffrey Middle, Garden Valley-Golden Sierra, Newman Middle, and Riverside-Loma Vista Middle. Tehachapi FFA chapter was reinstated.
Supporter of FFA were recognized as part of the Star Awards:
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Star Administrator: Michael Gray, King City High School
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Star Counselor: Sandra Flores, Los Banos Middle School
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Star Supporting Staff: Scot Worrell, Buena Park High School
National FFA Advisor, Dr. Travis Park challenged members to rise to the moment. Pointing to the pressing issues facing both California and agriculture, he asked, “Are you ready, California FFA, for that serious effort?” He concluded with a powerful call to unity, leading the arena in a spirited chant of the FFA motto.
The excitement continued as winners of the Novice Parliamentary Procedure competition were announced, with San Luis Obispo FFA sweeping the top five individual chairs. They claimed the highest overall team, earning a spot to compete at nationals.
Sharing his journey through self-doubt, tunnel vision in academics, and the support he found in the Santa Maria FFA Chapter, his words resonated with many in the room. He explained that as members, we can either be vultures, and represent the bad in life, or choose to be a hummingbird and look forward to the sweet rewarding nectar of life. He left many members in the question of how they could be better. “Will you be a hummingbird or a vulture…because it’s always going to be you v.s. you.”
As he passed down his jacket, Camille Zavala reminded everyone that FFA officers are more than their titles. They’re mentors, friends, and family.
Closing ceremonies were conducted at the end of the session. With heartfelt messages, high energy, and inspiring stories, Session 2 truly Ignited the Spark in every FFA member present.
