How is FFA growing the next generation of leaders who will change the world? For many young people, growth occurs during the National FFA Convention & Expo. FFA members and advisors from all over the country will be gathering in Indianapolis, Ind., for the 96th National FFA Convention & Expo on Nov. 1-4.
“No matter where you are in FFA, you’ll find inspiration and direction to become a leader and influencer, ready to make an impact. During this event, find out who you are, who you want to become and how you can change how the world grows,” the organization said on its website.
Here are a few tips from National FFA to help make your convention experience a positive one.
1. Avoid the registration lines with three easy steps.
For chapter advisors who haven’t completed ALL steps of the registration process, expect unusually long lines at the Indiana Convention Center, Hall A. Those steps include:
1. Add attendee names for every registration purchased.
2. Assign agenda activities to each attendee’s name.
3. Ensure all attendees have completed their Health, Safety and Event Participation and Code of Conduct e-waiver.
4. Note their badge won’t print out without this step completed.
These steps should be completed before you travel to Indianapolis. Links and instructions are available in the registration confirmation email. If an attendee doesn’t have a waiver accurately completed, they will not receive a badge to enter the event. Remember: An attendee under 18 MUST have their e-waiver signed by a parent or guardian.
2. See something, say something.
Let someone know if an FFA member or guest is behaving inappropriately or not living up to the Code of Ethics. Throughout convention, there will be signs with a QR Code that can be scanned to report bullying, harassment, bias or other misconduct. Click here for more information. Once you access the page, use code FFAEvent.
3. Download the guidebook app.
Find your way around #FFA23 with FFA’s guidebook app! Check out everything you can see and do at convention with this free app!
4. Know the entry policies
All convention participants are subject to airport-style searches at venue entries. This applies to all convention venues, including Indiana Convention Center, Lucas Oil Stadium, Gainbridge Fieldhouse and Indiana State Fairgrounds. For safety reasons, prohibited items include but are not limited to:
• Knives (all types and all sizes)
• Weapons of any kind, including chains, knives, firearms and spiked jewelry
• Alcohol, drugs, illegal substances or any paraphernalia associated with drug use
• Laser pens/pointers of any type
• Outside food or drinks
• Oversized bags
• Pepper spray/Mace
• Any other item deemed unacceptable by event/building management
5. Know the venue cashless policies.
All the concession stands at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indiana Convention Center, Indiana State Fairgrounds and Lucas Oil Stadium are cashless. However, cash can be used at the FFA Shopping Mall and FFA Mega Store, located in Halls B-E at the Indiana Convention Center.
6. Park safely.
FFA works closely with the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department to promote safety and reduce preventable crimes. Help by following these guidelines:
• Always lock car or bus doors.
• Do not leave valuables visible inside cars or buses.
• A trunk is the safest place for valuables.
• Do not store an extra key under the car, fender, gas cap, etc.
• Only park in approved areas.
7. Use the established loading zones for buses.
Make sure to keep attendees safe by only using established loading zones for buses in Indianapolis.
8. Be a convention know-it-all.
The A to Z Guide is the best answer to your questions. Check it out in the mobile app or the convention website.
Read More:
4 Ways FFA Shaped My Life for the Better
FFA Has-Been? No, Your Role Just Changes
12 Reasons Why We Need FFA More Than Ever
