About Brookings FFA
The Early Years
Brookings FFA Chapter was established in 1942, when three-year Agriculture/Industrial Arts Teacher Albert Graves recognized the benefits the Illinois and National FFA organizations had to offer his students. With just 18 members, all males with a farm background, the group showed well in local competitions and even hosted an area soils workshop in their first year.
By 1948, the chapter had more than doubled in size to include 33 members. In just six years Brookings FFA Chapter boasted two state level firsts; Dairy Judging in 1946, and Public Speaking in 1948. The Speaker, then Junior Clyde Parks, went on to earn his National FFA Degree in 1950.
The Graves Era
Graves served as Chapter Advisor for 27 years, and by his retirement in 1969, Brookings FFA claimed numerous state, local, and two national FFA awards. At this time, membership had leveled at around 60 members, still all male with farm backgrounds.
Burns was followed by first-year teacher, Clayton Daniels.
Present
Clayton Daniels led Brookings FFA into the new millenium setting record marks in membership, awards, participation, and overseeing the introduction of the first female Brookings FFA Members. In 1982, Brookings elected its first female Chapter President, Mindy McElroy (left). Mindy went on to serve as South Dakota State Reporter, and was elected State President the following year.
McElroy's classmate and peer, Quentin Rund, assumed the position of Advisor in 2001. Since then he has overseen one of South Dakota's most decorated chapters. Brookings FFA is truly a trendsetting, and exemplary Chapter.
