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Montana Ag Network: Moore woman's historic year as a National FFA officer

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A year ago, Moore’s Mamie Hertel made history by becoming the first female from Montana to become a National FFA officer.

This week, the 93rd National FFA Convention is being held virtually and produced at the RFD-TV Fort Worth, Texas, studios.

Traditionally, National FFA officers travel the nation and the world for an entire year, promoting agriculture education and leadership. Despite the pandemic, Hertel and her officer team have worked to make a positive impact on FFA members' lives, using technology to reach the masses.

“It's been challenging at times to figure out those different methods of communication while having the mission stay the same,” Hertel told the Montana Ag Network. “I think that perspective will stick through for many years to come. I just feel grateful that we were able to meet students from where they were this year during a very difficult time. Something that we really pride ourselves in this week is that this is a convention for all. In every way and everywhere.”

During this past Tuesday evening of the virtual convention, Hertel delivered a keynote retiring address to over 760,000 FFA members. She encouraged the audience that by being quiet in volume and loud in value, they can change the world.

“The volume of your voice does not dictate the value that you add,” Hertel shared in her address. “You can add value quietly on your daily Zoom calls. By hyping someone up with a simple direct message. You can add value by writing a thank you note to a person who has had an impact on your life. It's the little things. The little voice, the quiet work that can add value. And, when combined over and over it will speak so loudly.”

Even with the honors and accolades that come with being a National FFA officer, Hertel has not forgotten where she comes from.

“Something that we talked about a lot in our trainings is that we stand on the shoulders of giants,” Hertel explained. “I know for a fact that I stand on the shoulders of giants in Montana who have helped me and inspired me and gotten me to where I am. I know that I am just one person to a larger image. I am just grateful that Montana agriculture has given me that background and that inspiration that's gotten me here.”

To watch Hertel’s entire remarks and more the 93rd National FFA Convention visithttps://convention.ffa.org/