Building Longer Tables

At the start of March, I had to privilege to attend the National FFA Next Gen: Agriculture Communications Conference in Dallas/Ft. Worth Texas. At this conference we were able to learn so many useful skills, connect with professionals in the ag comm industry, talk about trends and tactics in ag comm, and meet people from all over the country. It was an amazing experience, but what I really want to highlight is a theme that stuck all week.

Building longer tables.

The agriculture industry is an amazing place full of hardworking, passionate, high-moral people who strive to keep the world running and people taken care of. It’s a necessary industry that is vital to the function of our country, but is also typically misunderstood by people on the outside of things. Our industry and culture tends to get misconstrued by media and can turn people away from one of the greatest industries.

At this conference, we discussed a lot about how to combat this image portrayed of us on media. The answer is not to get angry or hateful back, it’s to build a longer table. Invite people to the scene of agriculture, show the love and work that goes in to every job. Help them to understand and respect the people who keep this country and world running. Be open to questions and comments. Give them reasons to want to listen to our stories and always invite them to sit at your table.

The agriculture industry, in my opinion, is hands down one of the greatest industries. It is full of phenomenal people and monumental tasks and advancements. Let people see that, encourage them to take part, and maybe we’ll be able to showcase the greatness that we are involved in.

Everyone is welcome at my table, so if you ever need anything at all, please don’t hesitate to reach out!!

Ellie Taylor

DV Reporter

Insta- @ellietaylor777