The Finley FFA Officer Team participated in a four-day leadership retreat from July 7-10 on the Oregon Coast to prepare for a successful and unified year of service. The experience began with a team excursion through Portland to Rockaway Beach, Oregon, followed by an orientation session where officers discussed expectations, set chapter goals, and explored possible themes for the year. They also participated in a leadership tree activity to identify personal strengths and better understand each other’s unique roles on the team. A time management activity helped officers reflect on how to balance FFA, academics, and personal responsibilities.
Throughout the retreat, officers collaborated on planning the chapter’s Program of Activities (POA), focusing on the three pillars of Growing Leaders, Building Communities, and Strengthening Agriculture. Officers took ownership of their committee responsibilities, brainstormed meaningful events, and laid the foundation for a productive year.
To apply their leadership learning, officers prepared and performed real-life FFA scenario skits, identifying challenges like member conflict and lack of motivation, and presented solutions to resolve them. These discussions encouraged deeper thinking about leadership styles, communication strategies, and how to lead by example.
Team-building was a key part of the retreat, with creative problem-solving activities like the marshmallow tower challenge, chop challenge, and a “walk and talk” session that allowed for honest conversations about teamwork. Each officer reflected on their goals by writing a personal letter to be opened at the end of the year, highlighting their hopes for growth as individuals and as a team.
Alongside the leadership work, officers enjoyed bonding time with a visit to the Tillamook Cheese Factory. The retreat closed with officer pictures and a shared sense of purpose and excitement for the year ahead. The Finley FFA Officer Team returned home united, prepared, and inspired to lead with integrity and enthusiasm.