“As a former 4-H kid, I can see how important agricultural education is to developing a generation of leaders who understand where our food comes from, value the work of farmers, and are committed to supporting the farming community. I know this firsthand,'' Governor Hochul said. “From agriculture to food science, biotechnology, engineering, veterinary medicine and more, there are endless opportunities for students to build careers in agriculture. New York City continues to support dedicated educators and build these important programs across the state. We will continue to expand.” (Photo: NYSDAM)
ALBANY — During National FFA Week, Governor Kathy Hochul today announced significant growth in New York State's agricultural education and FFA programs. Since 2016, the number of agriculture teachers has increased to 412 in 2023, an increase of more than 75% compared to 2016. Additionally, his FFA chapter and membership in New York State continues to grow to 36 members. New FFA chapters have been established since 2022, and 89 chapters have been established since 2016, for a total of 200 FFA chapters now established across New York. The Governor's 2024 State of the Union and 2025 Budget both prioritize agricultural education, including the creation of the Youth Agricultural Leadership Council and $1.25 million in FFA support (an increase of $250,000 from last year).
“As a former 4-H kid, I can see how important agricultural education is to developing a generation of leaders who understand where our food comes from, value the work of farmers, and are committed to supporting the farming community. I know firsthand.” Governor Hochul said. “From agriculture to food science, biotechnology, engineering, veterinary medicine and more, there are endless opportunities for students to build careers in agriculture. New York City continues to support dedicated educators and build these important programs across the state. We will continue to expand.”
The growth of agriculture teachers through programs such as Cornell University's Agricultural Education and Outreach Program, the New York Agricultural Classroom, and the New York State FFA Association is making it possible for more schools and students to participate in formal agriculture curricula and provide direct education. Agricultural curriculum is provided. Strengthen the pipeline of students entering the agricultural industry as a future career.
As the number of teachers increased, so did the number of FFA certifiers and members. 53 200 branches were established Among New York State's 62 counties, there are currently approximately 12,000 FFA members in New York State, up from 9,300 in 2022. In 2016, the state agriculture commissioner asked FFA to increase the number of licensees statewide by 100. FFA has since created 89 and is moving closer to that goal.
The New York FFA Association is a youth organization that helps middle and high school students become leaders in a variety of career fields, including agriculture. The 2024 budget invests $2 million to support New York FFA, the Agricultural Education Association, and New York Agriculture in the Classroom, and $5 million to support Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Sciences (MANRRS). Dollars were allocated. program.
The Governor's 2024 State of the State Address and Fiscal Year 2025 Budget build on this commitment, and the Governor continues to support workforce development and increase agricultural education to ensure agriculture remains a viable industry in New York State. We will prioritize investment. She proposed creating a youth agricultural leadership conference, increasing support for FFA in the executive budget by $250,000 to a total of $1.25 million, supporting the New York Agriculture Classroom Program and increasing the number of certified agricultural educators. He dedicated $1 million. state. In addition, her $250,000 in support of urban agriculture education and her $50,000 toward the MANRRS program are included in the executive budget. Together, these programs will help meet the growing demand for agricultural education across New York.
National FFA Week, celebrated February 17-24, celebrates the positive impact that FFA and agricultural education programs have on students in New York and across the country.
state agriculture commissioner
State Sen. Michelle Hinchey said. “The future of New York agriculture is bright because we have great student leaders in our FFA who are advancing the industry locally and nationally. From food science to veterinary medicine, we spotlight the diverse career paths available within industries that are essential to serving our communities and our nation. All eight local FFA chapters in SD-41 receive special Shout out to them. It's inspiring to see their passion for making a positive impact. I am honored to sponsor a Senate resolution designating February 12-24 each year as National FFA Week in New York. We are very proud of Governor Hochul and thank him for his continued support of FFA students and agricultural teachers and for his commitment to expanding agricultural education.”
Congresswoman Donna Lupardo said: “FFA and agricultural education are the foundation of New York's agriculture industry. I am always impressed by the quality of these educational programs and the professionalism of FFA students. They are leading and defining the future of New York agriculture. The next generation of veterinarians, scientists, teachers, entrepreneurs, and farmers. I would like to thank Governor Hochul for his continued support and to the New York agriculture teachers and students who continue to inspire me every day. .”
said New York State FFA Director Julia Trosky. “Whether it's starting a chapter in a new community or a student embarking on a journey toward relevant personal success, New York FFA's story is one of growth. I am very proud of the work our teachers do to foster an environment where students have opportunities to grow. We know how much work it takes to work beyond the classroom and across grade levels to advance communities through agriculture. ”
New York State FFA President Ella Underberg said. “At New York FFA, we have the opportunity to witness tremendous growth within our members, our community, and our chapters. FFA helped me gain a new perspective on what it means to lead and truly pursue your passion. ”
said Benjamin Z. Houlton, the Ronald P. Lynch Dean of Cornell University's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. “For more than 150 years, Cornell CALS has been focused on developing the next generation of leaders in agriculture. Agricultural science education has grown throughout our state's rural and urban communities, equipping young people with knowledge and skills. We are excited to celebrate expanding and translating this knowledge into future actions for the benefit of all New Yorkers.”
“We're thrilled to be working with Cornell University,” said Shari Lighthall, director of agricultural education and outreach in Cornell University's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. “Agriculture teachers are the foundation of every FFA chapter in the state. These teachers prepare students for careers, provide opportunities to develop agricultural literacy, and open doors to growth and opportunity for students every day from their local classrooms. Every blue jacket you see has a caring adult supporting their success. At a time when there is a national agriculture teacher shortage, we are proud of all the work we do to place qualified teachers in classrooms. ”
Katie Carpenter, director of New York Agriculture in the Classroom, said: “Our passion is to create opportunities for teachers and students to understand their role in the future of food and agriculture. Creating a generation of agricultural literates who will be thoughtful and critical about the food system. We will secure a thinking future workforce. This investment in young people and teachers is an exciting advancement for authentic learning experiences through agriculture.”
About New York FFA
Administered by Cornell University, New York FFA fosters excellence in leadership, personal growth, and career success through national activities and opportunities. FFA was founded in 1928 by a group of young farmers. Their mission was to prepare future generations for the challenge of feeding a growing population. They showed that farming is more than just planting and harvesting, it is a science, a business, and an art.
FFA continues to help the next generation meet challenges by developing their unique talents and exploring their interests in a wide range of career paths. Learn more about NY FFA here. www.nysffa.org.
–New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets
