Career Development Events Creed Speaking Creed Speaking Event is designed to recognize ninth grade members for their ability to present the FFA Creed from memory and answer questions on the meaning and purpose of the FFA.
I believe in the future of agriculture, with a faith born not of words but of deeds—achievements won by the present and past generations of agriculturist; in the promise of better days through better ways, even as the better things we now enjoy have come to us from the struggles of former years.
I believe that to live and work on a good farm, or to be engaged in other agricultural pursuits, is pleasant as well as challenging; for I know the joys and discomforts of agricultural life and hold an inborn fondness for those associations which, even in hours of discouragement, I cannot deny.
I believe in leadership from ourselves and respect from others. I believe in my own ability to work efficiently and think clearly, with such knowledge and skill as I can secure, and in the ability of progressive agriculturist to serve our own and the public interest in producing and marketing the product of our toil.
I believe in less dependence on begging and more power in bargaining; in the life abundant and enough honest wealth to help make it so – for others as well as myself; in less need for charity and more of it when needed; in being happy myself and playing square with those whose happiness depends upon me.
I believe that American agriculture can and will hold true to the best traditions of our national life and that I can exert an influence in my home and community which will stand solid for my part in that inspiring task.
The creed was written by E.M. Tiffany in 1930, and adopted at the 3rd National FFA Convention. It was revised at the 38th and 63rd National Conventions Extemoraneous Public Speaking Students are given thirty minutes to prepare a speech on an agriculture topic selected through a random selection process. The students then deliver the presentation and answer questions related to the topic. Horse Judging Contestants evaluate horses on breed characteristics, conformation and performance and present oral reasons on placement of classes. Job Interview Students develop a resume and a letter of introduction geared to a selected career. Contestants then participate in an oral interview.
Livestock Judging Members evaluate beef cattle, sheep and swine on physical characteristics and records for marketing and breeding usage.
Marketing Plan Participants develop marketing skills through the development and presentation of a plan that promotes a current or proposed product, supply or service. Prepared Public Speaking Students are given the opportunity to develop a prepared speech on an agriculture topic. The students deliver the speech based on a written manuscript then answer related questions.
