By Dr. Jacob Vazquez, Butte College Agriculture Business Instructor

As a former community college student and current instructor, I’m a big fan of California Community Colleges (CCC). My journey started at Butte College (Butte), then Fresno State, then Farm Credit, and now back at Butte serving as an agriculture business instructor. The CCC system is robust and inclusive, proudly holding the title of the largest higher education system in the United States.

There is $100,000 given annually, and they're all under one roof! These are scholarships available through organizations managed by Ag Association Management Services, Inc. (AAMSI). For more information, contact AAMSI at (916) 441-1054.

By Piper Lakey, State FFA Reporter

In November, our State Officer Team had the wonderful opportunity to attend several events, beginning with the 96th Annual National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our responsibilities during the convention included being part of the national delegate process. The 2023-2024 state officers, 2022-2023 state officers, and members chosen through an application process served as the assigned delegates to represent California.

Congratulations the following candidates who were awarded their American FFA Degree at the 96th National FFA Convention!

Sebastian Abonce, Watsonville

Aidan Adams, Susanville-Lassen

Robin Adams, Kelseyville

Omar Agustin-Zarate, Madera

Mason Akers, Merced-Stone Ridge Christian

Evan Alamillo, Fillmore

Isabella Albiani, Elk Grove

Samantha Albiani, Elk Grove

Sophia Albiani, Elk Grove

Joseph Albin, Fortuna

Giovanni Alcaraz, King City

Emily Alderman, Durham

Brylee Alewine, Arroyo Grande

California FFA members showed up at this year's National FFA Convention! Highlights include: California FFA members represented the Golden State well at this year's National FFA Convention! Highlights include: three national proficiency champions, two CDE national champions, one LDE national champion, one national agriscience champion, one national FFA talent winner, 10 Honorary American Degree recipients, 528 American Degree recipients, and many finalists!

Congratulations to everyone who competed in Indianapolis this year!

Submitted by Woodland FFA

In a testament to dedication and skill, Woodland FFA members achieved a remarkable feat by restoring a 1956 Cub Cadet lawn tractor found abandoned in Capay Valley, near the school. Over the course of two years, FFA member Jaxon Smee spearheaded the restoration efforts. Starting as a pile of rusted parts, the tractor was transformed through sheer determination and hard work.

By Piper Lakey, State FFA Reporter

In a whirlwind of travel, our officer team embarked on a statewide adventure this month, visiting schools across the state. Splitting into pairs, they crisscrossed California, connecting with chapters and helping FFA members develop their leadership skills.

By Piper Lakey, State Reporter

In rounding out the month of August, the state officer team paid a visit to Temecula, the home of California FFA State Secretary, Makena Stanisai. During this visit, they explored the area, taking in the sights at an olive oil company and spending quality time with the students of Saint Jeanne de Lestonnac Catholic High School.

By Madison Mills, FFA Alumni and Student at Cal Poly, SLO

Heading off to college this fall? You're in for an exciting adventure, but it can also be a bit overwhelming. Here are five tips from a current college student and past FFA member to help FFA alumni make the most of their first few years at a college or trade school.

1. Use the past to build the future. 

As FFA members journey through their high school years, many are profoundly impacted by their advisors, who help them forge a deep connection to the organization and its mission. Some of these alumni, driven by the transformative influence of their FFA advisors, come full circle, deciding to return to the organization as agricultural teachers themselves.