The California Association, FFA, recently awarded Grow West, the California Farm Bureau Federation (CFBF), and the California Agricultural Teachers’ Association (CATA) with the Distinguished Service Citation at the 97th State FFA Leadership Conference in Sacramento.
The Distinguished Service Citation honors organizations, agencies, businesses, or other groups that have made outstanding contributions to FFA and agricultural education. This year, the California FFA Executive Committee voted to recognize these three organizations for their unwavering support and dedication to California FFA and its members.
Grow West, one of California’s largest independent ag retailers, was recognized for its remarkable 70-year partnership with California FFA. The company has been a key supporter of the California Agriculture Special Interest License Plate Program, which generates more than $200,000 annually to fund youth leadership and career development. Since 2015, Grow West has purchased over 300 agriculture-themed license plates for its company fleet—200 of which remain in active use today. Beyond this initiative, Grow West also invests locally through donations, livestock project purchases, and fundraising efforts.
The California Farm Bureau Federation was honored for its consistent and wide-ranging support of FFA members across the state. From funding FFA jackets provided to sectional and regional officers to contributing to the state awards program, CFBF helps ensure members are well-equipped for leadership and career success. Their impact is felt both statewide and at the local level, where they continue to champion FFA chapters and nurture the next generation of California agricultural leaders.
The California Agricultural Teachers’ Association (CATA) was recognized with the Distinguished Service Citation for its critical role in advancing agricultural education statewide. Representing agriculture educators from middle school through university, CATA advocates for funding, resources, and program development that directly benefit students, teachers, and agricultural education programs. Their ongoing efforts ensure agricultural education remains strong and relevant across California.
“The Distinguished Service Citation is one of the highest honors we can bestow, and this year’s recipients exemplify what it means to be true champions of agricultural education,” said Matt Patton, executive director of the California FFA Foundation. “Grow West, the California Farm Bureau Federation, and the California Agricultural Teachers’ Association have each made a profound impact on California FFA and our members, and their commitment helps prepare today’s FFA members to drive the future of agriculture.”
With more than 105,000 student members statewide, California FFA is committed to transforming the lives of young people by cultivating their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education. The steadfast support of Grow West, the California Farm Bureau Federation, and CATA helps ensure California FFA remains a consistent driving force for youth leadership and agricultural education.
About California FFA: California FFA serves more than 105,000 students and strives to make a difference in their lives by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education. To learn more about the California FFA, visit calaged.org.