Courtesy Corps Celebrate 50 Years
Tuesday, July 12, 2016 | Author: McKenzie Ellis, El Campo FFA
At the 1966 Texas FFA Convention, approximately five members from each area, assisted in keeping convention sessions orderly. In December 1966, Texas FFA Association Board of Directors and student officers presented the innovative idea to permanently create a program called the Courtesy Corps; a tradition that still exists today, 50 years later.
At the 1967 state convention, fifty members walked across the stage and were recognized as the first official Texas FFA Courtesy Corps. Today, the group has almost quadrupled in size.
The initial purpose for the Courtesy Corps, “was to make people feel welcome,” said Marcus Hill, 1966-1967 Texas FFA President and current Vice President of Ag Workers Insurance.
Today the Courtesy Corps is comprised of current FFA members who help with various parts of state convention.
“We could be on the floor checking delegate dress code, at our booth directing people where to go, or helping secure areas,” Courtesy Corps member, Kate Bearden said.
This experience allows students to see the inner workings of convention that you might miss by just being an attendee.
“It is an opportunity for me to be a part of something that can help,” Courtesy Corps member, Michaela Nix said.
To become a member of the Courtesy Corp, students must submit an essay, as well as retain knowledge consisting of various leadership skills and how they relate to FFA.
Just as the founders anticipated, the Courtesy Corps continues to strive to develop selfless leaders.
“This is just another example of how Texas FFA provides opportunities for members to serve others and their organization,” Livingston FFA Advisor, Kelsey Wood said.
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