INDIANAPOLIS (Michigan News Source) – For Amara Jackson, FFA is more than an extracurricular activity. It’s a way of life.

Jackson, a former Michigan FFA President and 2021 Corunna High School graduate, was named National FFA President during the 96th National FFA Convention & Expo in Indianapolis last weekend.

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“I just really feel blessed to be in this opportunity and I just would not be here if it wasn’t for those people back home in Michigan,” said Jackson. She represents Corunna FFA in Shiawassee County.

Jackson is currently working towards a degree in Agricultural Communications and Agribusiness at Oklahoma State University. In order to carry out her duties as FFA President, she plans to take a break from her college studies until next November. Once she graduates, Jackson said she may attend law school and help the farm community with succession planning.

“Our agriculture in Michigan is so diverse and unique,” says Jackson. “I’m excited to continue to learn more about Michigan agriculture but go on and learn about what’s going on in other states as we talk about agriculture.”

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Jackson added, “I’m looking forward to the opportunity to learn how other students are getting involved in FFA and what’s going on in their home states.”

Jackson’s own involvement in FFA started in 9th grade when she joined with her sister. Jackson expressed some nervousness at first, since she danced competitively for 14 years and showed horses and was concerned about the time FFA would take from her other interests.

“My sister just about dragged me to that first FFA meeting. Once I got there, I realized how much these people cared about me and how real these people were. I knew I wanted to be a part of something that was bigger than myself.”

Jackson joined and didn’t look back. Now, she says she’s excited to meet FFA students all across the country during her year in office.

“The National FFA Organization just reached that 945,988-member mark and we’re soaring towards one million FFA members…it’s my passion to meet those students and get to know their stories.”