INDIANAPOLIS – Although Nick Frey doesn’t wear his blue-and-gold corduroy jacket these days, he’s still
close to FFA.
The Purdue University graduate, who helps run his family’s 6,300-acre farming operation in Indiana,
remains close to his high school agriculture teacher and FFA advisor. Frey and his family help the North
Montgomery High School FFA Chapter conduct its Farm Safety Day each year. And recently after a Sunday
morning church service, a current FFA member approached Frey to share information about today’s FFA,
hear what it was like when he was a member and learn more about his role in running WCI Family Farms.

Frey is one of more than 7 million people who have belonged to FFA since the organization’s inception 83
years ago. Because of how FFA prepared him for leadership, personal growth and career success through
agricultural education, he stayed connected to FFA and remains an ardent supporter.
Today, FFA is looking for more people like Frey.
FFA membership reached an all-time high this year, as 540,379 students in the U.S., Puerto Rico and the
Virgin Islands are active members. While 53,000 former members are actively connected to FFA through the
organization’s Alumni network, the National FFA Organization estimates anywhere from 7-9 million former
members have lost touch and know virtually nothing about today’s FFA experience.
"Our primary focus has always been on preparing members to be leaders in the industry who, through
hard work and determination, grow personally and ultimately achieve career success," said National
FFA Foundation executive director Rob Cooper. "Now, we’re also looking to re-engage former members,
encourage them to connect back with us and help FFA through their advocacy, volunteerism, financial
support and more."
A national campaign launched last month called CONNECT! will communicate the importance of FFA to current
and former members and supporters of the organization, increase awareness of FFA and share the
organization’s impact on students and the agricultural industry.
The campaign invites people who have been involved with FFA, or anyone who is interested in the
organization, to visit the CONNECT! campaign website, get in touch and establish a new or renewed
relationship with FFA.
Those looking to connect with FFA can also do so by calling (888) 433-2674. Participants have a chance to
win incentives.
Information gathered in this campaign will be managed solely by the national foundation and will not be
sold.
The campaign runs through Dec. 30.