1960s-1970s: Social Changes

Adolphus Pinson, national NFA president, exchanges his NFF jacket for an FFA jacket. FFA President Kenneth Kennedy accepts his jacket to be added to the archives of the FFA.

1965

As a result of the Civil Rights Act, FFA is desegregated and the NFA merges with the FFA, adding 52,000 members.

Exploring the exhibits at the career fair, 1975

1966

The first FFA National Agricultural Career Show, a trade show especially for students, exposes National Convention attendees to educational and career opportunities in agriculture.

Explore the documents:

Click the image above to read the pamphlet for the first Agriculture Career Show and see who had exhibits

Explore the documents:

Read the proposed constitutional amendment to remove the word "male" from the membership requirements of the National FFA, voted on at the 1968 National Convention

1969

After an unsuccessful vote to amend the constitution in 1968, in 1969 women are given full membership in the national organization, now making it possible for them to hold office and participate in competitive events at the regional and national level. The admendment passed by 2 votes.

First female delegates at the National FFA Convention, 1970

Mss35 Alumni Association Brochures 1971-1975 1999-2000 Box 66 Folder 9.pdf

Explore the documents:

Click the image to read a variety of brochures for the alumni association, 1970s

1971

The National FFA Alumni Association is founded, providing opportunities for former FFA members and other supporters to become involved with their local student chapters.

Fred McClure (center) with the other national officers for 1973-74

1973

Fred McClure is elected Western Region Vice President, becoming the organization's first African-American National Officer. McClure would later serve on President George H. W. Bush's staff in Washington, D.C.