MERF Helps Send FFA to National Convention

MERF continues to support Valley Head students by making hands-on, real-world learning possible. This fall, MERF helped send Valley Head FFA officers to the National FFA Convention and Expo in Indianapolis — one of the largest student leadership gatherings in the nation. For many students, it was their first time traveling outside the South, and the experience expanded their understanding of what is possible for their future.

Under the guidance of Cameron Mitchell, Valley Head’s Agricultural Department teacher and FFA advisor, students participated in leadership sessions inside Lucas Oil Stadium and met college and agricultural professionals from across the country and abroad (all the way from Scotland!). They explored the national expo floor, where they learned about career pathways and saw how agriculture and technology are shaping the future.

The trip also included memorable educational experiences along the way. Students toured the Louisville Slugger Museum, where they learned how professional baseball bats are made and saw bats once used by legends like Babe Ruth. In Indianapolis, they visited the historic Indianapolis Motor Speedway, rode around the track, and explored the museum filled with Indy 500 racing history.

Left to right: FFA advisor and Valley Head School teacher Cameron Mitchell, FFA officer Kansas Lee, and FFA officer Kowen Worthey

Mitchell shared that the students returned home with new confidence and a stronger sense of direction, saying the experience “helped them see themselves as leaders.”

MERF believes experiential learning is invaluable. When students leave the classroom — and sometimes the state — they gain independence, curiosity, and a broader view of the world. MERF is grateful for the community support that makes these meaningful opportunities possible.

As we approach the end of 2025, please consider how giving young minds opportunities like this cultivate a culture of thinking, collaboration, and a growth mindset for students who will one day take the lead! If you would like to support MERF and its mission to expand experiential learning, please visit our website: merfhouse.org, or you can mail your check to: P.O. Box 107, Mentone, Alabama 35984. Thank you for helping us carry on with good work!