By Andi Anderson
Illinois FFA has announced the 2025–2026 Leadership Conference series, set to bring together thousands of students across the state for leadership growth and connection.
With expanded opportunities and updated curriculum, this year’s events promise to be more engaging than ever.
A total of 20 past state officers will return as facilitators for Middle School, Ground Zero, and BUILD Conferences, hosted at 10 different sites. With capacity for more than 3,100 students, conference attendance has nearly tripled over the last decade.
Over 230 team leaders, many of them current and past section presidents, will guide students in both large and small group activities designed for their grade level.
Illinois FFA is also encouraging teachers to serve as assistants to help with student logistics, ensuring a smooth and safe experience. Selected advisors will supervise groups, coordinate attendance, and assist with conference operations in exchange for free registration.
Returning students are welcome for Middle School and Ground Zero Conferences under updated policies, though first-time attendees will be given priority. Registration discounts and scholarships are also streamlined under a new system to simplify capacity tracking.
This year’s schedule includes Middle School Conferences in November 2025 and April 2026 at colleges across the state. Ground Zero Conferences, designed for 9th and 10th graders, will be held in January and February 2026 at venues including Springfield, Effingham, Carbondale, Joliet, and Macomb. For upperclassmen, the BUILD Conference will take place November 24–25, 2025, at Illinois State University in Normal, offering unique growth opportunities for juniors and seniors.
With a renewed focus on connecting students from all corners of Illinois, the FFA Leadership Conferences will continue to inspire, equip, and encourage the next generation of agricultural leaders.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: Illinois, General