By Julie Tomascik
Editor
For over 50 years, Texas Farm Bureau (TFB) has been planting the seeds for the next generation of leaders through summer youth programs.
This year, the organization launched the Student Success Series, which included three new programs and updated one program. The series featured both in-person and virtual experiences for students in eighth through twelfth grade.
As part of the Student Success Series, students completed modules in four different programs based on age: Jumpstart, Activate, Engage and Thrive.
The modules are designed to help students grow their leadership skills, provide professional development and increase their understanding of agriculture and Farm Bureau.
“The goal with the Student Success Series was to expand our youth programs. The Youth Leadership Conference previously only targeted juniors and seniors,” Bryce Moore, associate director of Field Operations, said. “But we also wanted to provide them something they may not necessarily learn in class or from another summer camp. We wanted them to learn a different perspective on leadership and government topics, but also learn about professional etiquette and other personal development.”
Nearly 80 students completed the virtual Jumpstart program, which was for youth entering eighth grade in August. They became more familiar with TFB and basic leadership skills, as well as learned information about Texas agriculture.
The Activate program was for students entering ninth grade in August. Ninety-five students participated in the virtual experience, which covered professionalism and career exploration. Students were also challenged to create a plan for leaving a legacy and learned more about TFB.
Nearly 90 students who will be sophomores this fall participated in the Engage experience, which was hosted in-person in each TFB district. This program focused on social media, teambuilding and TFB’s youth programs.
Formerly known as the Youth Leadership Conference, Thrive was for students who will be juniors or seniors this fall. In this virtual event, students heard from former TFB youth participants, studied public speaking and learned about the basics of free enterprise and the U.S. Constitution. They also heard from a motivational speaker on leadership topics. Over 150 students participated in Thrive.
“It’s important to keep students engaged, but we know many of them have busy summer schedules,” Moore, who led the Student Success Series Committee, said. “It’s impressive to see students take the time to learn more about Farm Bureau, agriculture, leadership and the many other topics that were covered. We’re excited to offer these programs to Texas youth and, hopefully, open the door to more opportunities in their future.”
Over 410 students across the state participated in the Student Success Series, and each student who completed the modules will receive prizes. Those who participated in the Thrive experience are eligible to compete in the Free Enterprise Speech Contest and earn scholarships.
For more information on youth programs, scholarships and other opportunities, visit texasfarmbureau.org/youth/youth-opportunities.