At the 99th National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, Oklahoma State University Ferguson College of Agriculture student Josie Jennings was elected 2026-27 National FFA President, earning the organization’s highest student leadership office.

Jennings, an agribusiness and agricultural communications major from Springfield, Ohio, was selected as one of six national officers who will serve and represent the more than 1 million FFA members during the coming year.

National FFA officers are chosen through a competitive selection process designed to identify student leaders who embody the organization’s mission and values. Officers dedicate a year of service to representing student members, facilitating leadership workshops, delivering motivational presentations and advocating for agricultural education at the local, state, national and international levels.

From FFA to OSU

For Jennings, the journey to the national presidency began long before stepping onto the national convention stage, and she credits her FFA experience with shaping both her career aspirations and her decision to attend OSU.

“I owe FFA and the connections that come with the blue jacket to the reason I ended up at Oklahoma State,” she said.

While serving as a 2024-25 Ohio FFA state officer, Jennings met then-National FFA officer and Ferguson College student Amara Jackson at Ohio FFA Camp. The connection encouraged her to visit Stillwater, a trip that ultimately solidified her college choice.

“As soon as I stepped on campus, it just felt like home,” Jennings said. “I’m so grateful I ended up in Stillwater because of the community of people here. They’re not only cheerleaders, but mentors who are willing to walk alongside you.”

Finding her passion

Growing up on her family’s corn and soybean farm, Jennings developed an interest in farm transition and succession planning while competing in the FFA Prepared Public Speaking Leadership Development Event. Researching the topic exposed her to the complexities of transferring farm ownership and inspired her to pursue a career dedicated to helping agricultural families preserve their legacies.

“That speech through FFA exposed me to a passion and a realm where I felt like I could play a role,” Jennings said.

The experience influenced Jennings’ decision to pursue dual degrees in agribusiness and agricultural communications.

“I knew I wanted the business foundation that the agribusiness major provides,” Jennings said. “I also wanted to develop skills in storytelling. Transition planning is about legacy. It’s about the story of a farm that has lived on through generations.”

College support

Throughout her candidacy, Jennings said the Ferguson College of Agriculture community played a role in supporting her journey.

“My professors were incredibly supportive,” she said. “What often started as conversations about scheduling and academics ended with meaningful conversations about leadership, purpose and who I am as a person.”

Dr. Cynda Clary, associate dean of academic programs, said Jennings exemplifies the leadership and service-oriented mindset that defines many Ferguson College students.

“Through her involvement in student organizations, leadership experiences and service opportunities across the Ferguson College, Josie has consistently made a positive impact on those around her,” Clary said. “She is a leader who invests in others, and we are excited to see her bring those talents to the National FFA Organization.”

Jennings’ election continues a tradition of Ferguson College student leadership and involvement within state and national FFA organizations, highlighting the college’s commitment to preparing the next generation of agricultural professionals.

Jennings believes the Ferguson College’s culture of mentorship and belonging contributes to its history of developing national agricultural leaders.

“I think students from across the country are drawn to OSU because the Ferguson College leaves an open seat for all students at the table,” Jennings said. “Foundationally, the college really cares about every student, and I think that’s why students continue to find success here.”

Looking ahead

As national president, Jennings and her team will spend the next year traveling extensively, connecting with FFA members and stakeholders across the country while helping lead the organization that began as Future Farmers of America into its 100th National FFA Convention in 2027.

“The six of us are big advocates for making sure an empty seat is always left for the members we have the chance to sit down with,” Jennings said. “I’m excited to continue telling the stories of students in our organization while celebrating the values and traditions that have shaped FFA for years.”

When her name was announced as National FFA President, Jennings said the moment was difficult to put into words.

“I was full of gratitude,” Jennings said. “I’m still not sure I have the words to explain that feeling, but it was defined by a lot of faith, overflowing joy and gratitude.”

FAQs