By Andi Anderson
Chris Hall, a junior at Western Boone Jr./Sr. High School, serves as his FFA chapter president and Indiana FFA District IV treasurer. In the summer of 2024, Hall took a significant step in his leadership journey by attending the Washington Leadership Conference (WLC), a premier event for FFA members across the nation.
Encouraged by fellow FFA members, Hall attended WLC hoping to improve both his leadership abilities and personal growth. “I wanted to learn more about helping my chapter in any way I could,” he shared. “I also wanted to discover what I needed to work on to become a better leader and mentor.”
Throughout the conference, Hall participated in leadership sessions, reflection times, and group discussions. These experiences transformed his outlook. Before WLC, Hall doubted his ability to make a difference. However, after listening to the lessons and engaging in activities, he realized leadership is not about fitting a mold but about being true to oneself. “If you want to make a difference, believe in yourself and be the best version of you,” he said.
One of the highlights for Hall was a group service project where attendees packed meals for the nonprofit organization Meals of Hope. Working as part of a team, Hall saw firsthand the power of cooperation and shared effort.
Each team member had a unique role—whether weighing ingredients or packaging food—and every task mattered to the group’s success. “If one person wasn’t doing their part, it would affect everyone,” he said.
Returning home, Hall applied these lessons to his leadership roles and personal life. The WLC experience motivated him to guide younger FFA members and remain active in his community.
Hall encourages other students to attend WLC, calling it “an unforgettable experience” that opens doors to personal growth, leadership opportunities, and lasting connections with peers across the country.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-aslan-alphan
Categories: Indiana, Education