More than 3,200 blue jackets representing 133 FFA chapters throughout the state converged upon Lincoln for the 81st Nebraska State FFA Convention, April 1-3, where the theme was "Step Up, Stand Out."

The convention was an exciting and action-packed culmination of the year with FFA members participating in career development events (competitions), award ceremonies and leadership activities, including the Nebraska FFA Career Fair.   Highlights include a motivational speech by former NFL player Shawn Harper, the State FFA Degree ceremony, "Stars Over Nebraska" Pageant and chapter and individual recognition.

To see the results from this year, click here or to hear Nebraska Rural Radio's interviews with Nebraska FFA officers and award winner, Mike LePorte, listen here.

The FFA Career Fair, in its second year, is a cooperative effort between the Nebraska FFA Association, the Nebraska FFA Foundation and the University of Nebraska's College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources.  The 30-exhibitor event drew participation from more than 1,000 students, advisors and parents.

Participating businesses found it to be a valuable venue for building brand awareness and speaking with current and future customers, as well as potential employees.  For students, the career fair proved to be an excellent setting to learn more about Nebraska's diverse agricultural business community and various career opportunities.

The Career Fair took place on Thursday afternoon, April 2, during the convention.  Students had an opportunity to participate in an interactive activity, whereby participating businesses submitted questions they would like students to ask during the course of the afternoon.  This further added to the dynamics of the event and students were entered to win prizes for their participation.

In addition to the Career Fair, sponsors took center stage at the sponsors' reception and dinner on Thursday night.  More than 400 sponsors, FFA members, parents, advisors and others came together to celebrate those who so generously support FFA programs and activities.  The dinner, sponsored by Smart Chicken, was also a time to recognize and congratulate the finalists from each of the 46 Agricultural Proficiency Award areas - a highly competitive endeavor.  Click here, to see this year's sponsors.

Special awards were also presented this year to supporters of Nebraska FFA.  Mike LePorte, Farm Service Director at KRVN and the Nebraska Rural Radio Network, was honored with the VIP Award.  In addition, Monsanto and the Nebraska Investment Finance Authority (NIFA) were recognized with the Distinguished Service Award.

The Nebraska FFA Association and Nebraska FFA Foundation are grateful to all sponsors who make the annual convention so memorable for so many young people in our state.

 Thank you for supporting Nebraska FFA!

NOTE: For more photos from the 81st State FFA Convention take a look at our Photo Album.