Dr. Arquimides Reyes shares his inspiring journey from a small farm in El Salvador to becoming an associate professor of animal science at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. His story exemplifies how agricultural education, mentorship, and the FFA can transform lives and create leaders who give back to their communities.

• Grateful for family, God, teaching opportunities, and the FFA which instilled purpose and passion for agriculture
• Grew up on a small dairy and beef farm in El Salvador before coming to the United States at age 11
• Initially viewed agriculture as "the job of the poor" until FFA showed him the true potential of agricultural careers
• Nearly dropped out of high school to work full-time and support his family
• The FFA jacket became a symbol of opportunity that "levels the playing field" for all students
• Graduated as valedictorian and pursued higher education at Texas A&M and Colorado State University
• Identifies adaptability, communication skills, and integrity as keys to success in agriculture
• Currently serves as an associate professor and volunteer firefighter, committed to giving back to his community
• Believes "when your values are clear, your choices are easy"

Go out and do something great for somebody – encourage them, equip them, empower them. Plant great seeds and grow an incredible future.

Learn more at MyTexasFFA.org

George Couros, author of "The Innovator's Mindset," shares his journey from reluctant teacher to educational innovator and how exceptional leadership transformed his perspective on education. He explores how creating environments where both adults and students can thrive leads to better educational outcomes while preparing communities to navigate an uncertain future.

• Originally from a small Canadian town where community shaped his educational philosophy
• Found his passion for education through an exceptional principal who gave teachers ownership
• Focuses on developing all learners in an organization, not just students
• COVID provided opportunity to rethink priorities and approaches to education
• Teaches his children skills he never learned, preparing them for challenges he can't predict
• Believes in the importance of modeling lifelong learning for students
• Emphasizes engagement comes from seeing purpose, not just making learning "fun"
• Identifies three competitive edges: the "sponge factor" (willingness to learn), taking action on feedback, and personal connection
• Strives to make every interaction the best part of someone's day

Make it your goal to be the kind of person who brings out the best in others. When you focus on being present, continuously learning, and building genuine connections, you create opportunities for yourself and those around you.

Learn more at MyTexasFFA.org

Dr. Justin Terry, Superintendent of Forney ISD, shares how mentorship and innovative educational approaches are transforming students' futures through entrepreneurial mindsets and real-world experiences.

• Mentorship as a foundation for leadership development - having both internal and external mentors provides guidance and diverse perspectives
• The Opportunity Central (OC) - a 350,000 sq. ft. facility that's student-run, multifunctional, and serves as both educational space and community event center
• Creating a culture of innovation through consistent messaging and values like "people first" and "inspiring innovation"
• Helping students develop their competitive edge by identifying their strengths and cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset
• Competing for students' minds requires the same intensity as competing in athletics
• The future of education will require engaging not just students but entire families
• Leadership requires embracing change, maintaining an open mind to possibilities, and always treating others with kindness

Learn more at MyTexasFFA.org