MFBF Hosts Two-Day Event to Engage Younger Generations in Agriculture
Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation recently hosted an inspiring two-day event aimed at fostering engagement among younger generations, specifically high school and college-aged students, in agriculture. Held at the Bost Conference Center in Starkville, the event took place on October 17-18 and featured a blend of competitive activities, educational programs, and networking opportunities designed to deepen students’ connection to Mississippi’s rich agricultural traditions.
The event kicked off on October 17 with the Collegiate Discussion Meet, a competitive event designed to simulate a committee meeting where participants discuss timely agricultural issues. Students were evaluated on their problem-solving abilities and leadership skills, focusing on their knowledge of agriculture and ability to articulate solutions to pressing challenges.
Delton Boone of Smith County was named the winner of the competition, earning a $2,000 scholarship award from MFBF’s Young Farmers and Ranchers program. Additionally, the final four contestants in the collegiate competition will each receive $500 scholarships for their impressive performances. They are Chase Boone, Noah Carpenter, and Marley Thornton.
On October 18, MFBF hosted its inaugural High School Discussion Meet, welcoming students from across the state. Like their collegiate counterparts, these high school students engaged in rigorous discussions on current agricultural issues, demonstrating the critical thinking and communication skills necessary for future leadership in agriculture. Maggie Claire Todd of Jones County was named the champion, earning a $1,000 Young Farmers and Ranchers scholarship award. The final four participants, who also earned $500 scholarships for their strong participation, were Emma Creel, Gracyn Foster, and Alana Whitehead.
“I’m very passionate about the agriculture industry and any way I can make it better,” said Todd, who was eager for the chance to grow her knowledge and public speaking skills during the discussion meet, despite not quite knowing what to expect. “I was a little iffy going into it because I didn’t really know what it was going to be like. I’ve never done this before, but this is something that I definitely want to do again. It was a really enjoyable experience.”
Foster, also of Jones County, echoed similar sentiments about the experience and the networking opportunities it presented. “I really enjoyed hearing everyone’s point of view and different opinions about the topics. I knew that everyone would have kind of a different stance on it, but I think we were all in agreeance, and I really appreciate that. I think we all have a strong sense of what agriculture could be and needs to be, and I’m really excited to see how we go forward from this.
Following the competition, students participated in MFBF’s newly launched LEAD (Lead Educate Advocate Develop) program, which provided a comprehensive look at Farm Bureau’s role in advocating for agricultural communities. The LEAD agenda was packed with activities designed to both educate and inspire the next generation of agricultural advocates.
“It’s never too early to start developing leadership skills,” said MFBF President Mike McCormick. “If you’re going to be a leader in your community, in agriculture, or in Farm Bureau, what a great place to start at the high school level. This new program is a great way to give Mississippi youth a jump on their education about what Farm Bureau is and give them a better understanding of the importance and practice of advocacy.”
The day began with a welcome from President McCormick, followed by a foundational session, Farm Bureau 101, where students learned about the history, mission, and ongoing initiatives of the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation. This session was crucial for helping students understand the vital role Farm Bureau plays in shaping agricultural policy and supporting farmers across the state.
Students also competed for prizes during several Farm Bureau Trivia sessions, which tested their knowledge of agricultural facts and provided an interactive way to reinforce learning. Camille Scales Young, longtime MFBF member and principal of Cornerstone Government Affairs in Jackson, led an engaging session on professional development and leadership.
Current and former members of MFBF’s Young Farmers and Ranchers also participated in an on-stage panel discussion to share their experiences and how the organization has benefited them both personally and professionally. The discussion served to inform students about the opportunities the YF&R program provides and encourage them to get involved.
The two-day event was a resounding success, underscoring MFBF’s commitment to encouraging young people to take an active role in the future of Mississippi agriculture. By providing these students with opportunities to compete, learn, and network, MFBF is investing in the next generation of agricultural leaders, ensuring that Mississippi’s farming traditions continue to thrive for years to come.
“I think, if you start now with the youth, the natural progression is that they’d go into the collegiate activities that Mississippi Farm Bureau has available, and the Young Farmer & Rancher program continues to grow and thrive as a result,” said McCormick. “Early engagement builds lifelong connections and well-informed future leaders for our organization—future leaders for our state. That’s what Farm Bureau is all about.”