More than 2,000 students, advisors, and supporters in the signature blue corduroy jacket filled Colorado State University Pueblo’s campus June 2 through 4 for the 98th Annual Colorado FFA State Convention. The conference, themed “Illuminate Your Calling,” drew members from across the state for three days of leadership development, competition, and community.

CSU Pueblo President Dr. Rhonda Epper opened the first general session with remarks that set the tone for the entire convention. Standing at the podium before the packed auditorium, she welcomed the crowd with a joke about never being assisted this much to get on stage.

“What an incredible honor it is for Colorado State University Pueblo to host the Colorado FFA State Convention. We are so excited to welcome this large crowd of students and supporters from all over the state to our campus.”

— Dr. Rhonda Epper, CSU Pueblo President

Epper spoke directly to this year’s theme, reflecting on what it means to find one’s calling.

“Finding your calling is really not a single moment of discovery. It is more often a journey, shaped by opportunities that you pursue and the challenges you face that help you grow.”

— Dr. Rhonda Epper

She told the students that few people follow a straight path, and that most discover their purpose one opportunity at a time, one challenge at a time, or through the relationships they build along the way. Her remarks landed with particular weight, given FFA’s long-standing focus on leadership, service, and agricultural education.

“Here in Colorado and especially in southern Colorado, we know that agriculture is more than an industry. It is part of the fabric of our communities. It strengthens our economy. It feeds our nation, and it reflects our values of hard work, stewardship and service.”

— Dr. Rhonda Epper

Before closing, she told students directly: “Our country and our state need you now more than ever.”

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Two FFA members in blue corduroy jackets posing with the CSU Pueblo Wolfpack mascot on the campus patio

FFA attendees got some time with the Wolfpack mascot between sessions. Photo: CSU Pueblo

The convention’s official roll call recorded 2,035 registered guests and members, making it one of the largest gatherings the campus has hosted. Secretary reports confirmed the number at the opening session, a notable milestone for an organization that traces its Colorado roots across nearly a century.

Keynote speaker Dave Roever addressed attendees during the convention’s main programming. Roever, known nationally for his work with veterans and students, delivered a message that aligned with the convention’s focus on purpose and resilience.

The relationship between CSU Pueblo and Colorado FFA runs deep. The university’s own promotional remarks during the opening session pointed students toward programs in agribusiness, pre-veterinary sciences, wildlife biology, and construction management, among others. It also highlighted the campus’ collegiate Farm Bureau chapter as a natural home for FFA graduates considering higher education.

Students who wanted a piece of campus history took full advantage of the iconic CSU Pueblo sign on the lawn. Photos of attendees perched atop the giant block letters circulated through the event, the blue jackets unmistakable against the clear Colorado sky.

For many in attendance, the convention served as both a celebration of what they had already accomplished and a preview of what was to come. Epper summed it up plainly before stepping away from the podium.

“I hope you have a great convention. Thank you for allowing CSU Pueblo to be part of your journey.”

— Dr. Rhonda Epper