News : V-S FFA President Will McKenna Attends Washington D.C. Leadership Conference

Will McKenna and members from the Osage FFA chapter with Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley.

Will with the Iowa Statue of Norman Borlaug in the Rotunda at the Capitol.

Will McKenna in front of the Capitol.

By: Co-Reporter, Abby McKenna

From July 8th to 12th, Vinton-Shellsburg FFA member Will McKenna traveled to our nation's capital to attend the Washington Leadership Conference (WLC), an intensive leadership experience hosted by the National FFA Organization. WLC brings together FFA members from across the country for a week of workshops, community service, and reflection focused on personal growth, leadership development, and making a difference in the world.

Will was the only member from the chapter to attend this year and took full advantage of the opportunity to grow as a leader. Reflecting on the experience, Will said,

"Going to WLC by myself was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It really helped me grow as a person and become a better leader. The workshops were super inspiring, and getting to tour Washington, D.C. was amazing. I'm so thankful for the scholarships that made it all possible, especially the National FFA WLC Scholarship and the Nick Bassett Scholarship from the Iowa FFA Alumni Association and the Bassett family. Their support meant a lot and made this trip something I'll always remember."

During the week, Will participated in team-building exercises, service projects, and educational sessions centered on creating a "Living to Serve" plan that students bring back to their communities. He also visited historical landmarks and memorials throughout Washington, D.C., which added powerful context to the conference's themes of service, leadership, and responsibility.

The Vinton-Shellsburg FFA Chapter is proud to have had a member represent our school and community at such a meaningful event. Congratulations, Will, on taking this big step toward becoming a stronger leader!