This week is National FFA Week, our annual opportunity to commemorate the important role this organization plays in building future leaders for rural America. As we celebrate, it’s encouraging to see an increasing number of young people taking advantage of career and character-building opportunities. Across the nation, FFA participation levels are up 11 percent from last year. In Nebraska, student involvement in FFA has never been greater. I recognized this record-breaking growth in an address on the floor of the House of Representatives last month and am encouraged to see the rising generation of leaders in our communities eager to learn, grow, and move confidently into the future.
I remember the lasting impact of educators who challenged and encouraged me to explore my interests, and because I understand how valuable opportunities to exercise gifts and leadership can be for students, I strive to provide unique opportunities for Third District youth each year.
As a member of Congress, I have the privilege of nominating exceptional Nebraskans for admission to the U.S. service academies each year. U.S. Military, Air Force, and Coast Guard Academy cadets and Naval and Merchant Marine Academy midshipmen as well as participants in Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) programs receive a top-notch education and develop leadership skills and character.
I encourage interested high school students, parents, and guidance counselors to attend one of the Service Academy Day events my office plans to host this year with other members of Nebraska’s congressional delegation to learn more about these outstanding opportunities. Congressional staff and service academy representatives will be present to answer questions about the nomination process.
Through a partnership with the Congressional Institute and the Nebraska Art Teachers Association, each spring I extend an invitation for students to participate in the Congressional Art Competition. Winning submissions from Third District students are then displayed for one year in my offices and the U.S. Capitol building while the first place artist also receives an invitation to Capitol Hill to see their artwork on display.
Rising high school sophomores, juniors, or seniors with an interest in federal lawmaking can apply to serve as a member of my Youth Advisory Council. In meetings throughout the school year, participating students have the chance to discuss federal issues with me, and I get the benefit of hearing their opinions, concerns, and ideas.
College students seeking firsthand experience in a congressional office can apply for an internship in one of my offices. By assisting me and my staff with legislative research, constituent services, communications, and administrative tasks, interns can participate in the legislative process while supporting my mission to serve Third District Nebraskans. Internships in my office can provide college credit, if applicable.
To find out more about these programs, please visit my website at adriansmith.house.gov, or contact one of my offices. Whether through agriculture education, military service, the cultural arts, or civic engagement, giving youth a chance to take on increased responsibility helps to develop competence and the resilience needed to overcome the challenges life brings. As I seek to provide such experiences, I salute the hard-working educators and parents doing the same across Nebraska, preparing young Americans to lead.