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Advocating for the next generation of ag leaders

Ag Secretary Sonny Perdue is a strong advocate for the next generation of agricultural leaders.

Speaking at the National FFA Headquarters on Tuesday, he told FFA members he was inspired by them.  

“I’m a big fan of what this organization does for young people, and obviously I’m a big fan of young people because I’m inspired by you kids every time I’m around you with your enthusiasm and what you’re accomplishing,” he says.

Indiana FFA State North Region Vice President Savannah Bordner says it’s incredible to have the support of the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture.

“It’s always important to have that support at the national level and so having Secretary Perdue here is vital for us because we want his support and he is a huge supporter of FFA,” she says.

Audio: Savannah Bordner

Perdue also participated in a roundtable with Indiana FFA State Reporter Chyenne Deno and Indiana FFA State Southern Region Vice President Nathan Deatrick.

Deatrick said he was honored to be part of the roundtable.

“Having the ability to sit down and talk to him is incredible because not many people at all get this opportunity,” he says.

Deno says it’s inspiring to have support at the national level.

“Not just our local chapter support, but we also have support across the entire nation,” she says. “It’s one of those heart-warming moments.”

Audio: Chyenne Deno and Nathan Deatrick

Perdue has attended several National FFA Conventions, but this was his first visit to the National FFA Headquarters.