Session Three: Kindling Connections (April 4, 2025)
Hosted by CA FFA State Treasurer and State Sentinel
Keynote Speakers: Alma Cooper, Miss USA and Ben Moore, The Ugly Co.
Session Three of the 97th California FFA State Leadership Conference, themed Kindling Connections, was a celebration of leadership, recognition, and inspiration. With 697 delegates and more than 6,899 members representing all six regions, the session opened with energy—featuring state talent performances, officer introductions, and a light-hearted recap of session two from officers John Dein and Joshua Wolford, who jokingly referred to themselves as “the two alphas.”
Special guest Alma Cooper—Miss USA and a West Point graduate—shared a powerful message of resilience and ambition, reminding students, “If you can see me, you can be me,” and urging them not to be the first to say no to themselves.
The session also recognized students, chapters, and supporters for their outstanding accomplishments across a wide range of award areas—from public speaking and scholarships to agricultural science, service, and career skills.
Marc DeBernardi, agriculture teacher at Santa Maria High School, was honored as the 2024–25 Ag Educator of the Year and received the Golden Owl Award, presented by the California FFA Foundation in partnership with the California Farm Bureau and Nationwide.
Keynote speaker Ben Moore, founder of The Ugly Co., shared his entrepreneurial journey of turning imperfect fruit into a thriving business. He emphasized the value of hard work, embracing challenges, and finding purpose in unlikely places.
To close the session, State Treasurer Melissa Lua Duarte delivered her retiring address, “Love Yours.” Reflecting on moments with her family, memories in her dad’s red truck, and the importance of self-worth, she reminded members, “There is no life that is better than yours.” Her heartfelt message left the arena inspired to embrace their stories and lead with love.
The session ended with the FFA closing ceremonies.
