It’s been 50 years since the 1969 National FFA Convention when women gained full, national membership in FFA. In 1969 women were officially allowed membership into the National FFA Organization. In the 50 years since the formal acceptance of female membership, women have become an integral part of the organization.

From the moment women were first welcomed into the National FFA Organization in 1969, their enthusiastic membership has been instrumental in shaping the future of FFA – but it all started with a few groundbreaking leaders. Meet five women who …

It’s been 50 years since the 1969 National FFA Convention when women gained full membership. Let’s celebrate the decades of courage, diligence and relentlessness that paved the way. …

Jan 23, 2023 · Anita Decker and Patricia Krowicki became the first female FFA delegates in 1970. In 1976, Julie Smiley became the first female national officer, and Jan Eberly became the first female national president in 1982. In 2002, Karlene Lindow was the first female named the American Star Farmer.

Sep 9, 2023 · In 1982 FFA made a huge move by electing the first ever female National FFA officer. Her name was Jan Eberly, who was voted to be the National FFA President from 1982-1983. She made a huge impact on women and showed them that they too can defy odds.

Mar 21, 2022 · According to the National FFA Organization, 44 percent of all FFA members identify as women. Females also hold approximately 50 percent of state leadership positions. However, some states have a unique state representation of strong female leadership. For example, the first all-female West Virginia FFA State Leadership team was elected this year.

Oct 14, 2019 · 1982 – Jan Eberly from CA becomes the first female national FFA president. 1976 – Julie Smiley from Washington is elected as national FFA vice president, making her the first female to hold a national FFA office. 1973 – First American Farmer Degrees are handed out to female members.

Feb 12, 2025 · In May 1968, 15-year-old Rickert and about six other like-minded friends headed to the annual FFA state convention at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, the state FFA headquarters. The girls stood before the delegates and made their case for being allowed to participate.

Mar 12, 2025 · In the last 50 years, women have played a pivotal role in the National FFA Organization. Since the formal acceptance of female membership, their participation has continued to grow and evolve. In honor of National Women’s History Month, we see how women found their place in the organization.

Nov 1, 2017 · The National FFA Organization has elected the first African-American female president in its 89 year history.