Brandon Monk named Virginia FFA executive director

Brandon H. Monk has been named executive director of Virginia FFA.

The high school agricultural educator, who hails from Frederick County, Virginia, enters his new role as executive director with experience in Virginia FFA program development and working with the National FFA organization as a conference facilitator.

“FFA is primed for growth in Virginia,” Monk said. “Now, more than ever, our industry leaders, government officials, and secondary education administrators are looking for hands-on opportunities to engage students in practical skills that translate into career success. FFA and agricultural education programs have been providing that platform for years. I am looking forward to doing our part as an association to share the story of youth in agriculture as we grow leaders.”

The National FFA Organization is committed to the individual student and provides a path to achievement in premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education.

Virginia FFA, a part of  Virginia Cooperative Extension, boasts nearly 10,000 members in the commonwealth.

Agriculture is Virginia’s No. 1 industry and Monk believes that FFA can play a vital role in making sure that youth are ready to become leaders in the agricultural workforce in the coming years.

“All students should be given the opportunity to spend some time in an agriculture classroom learning about the industry that provides food, fuel, and fiber for a growing Virginia,” said Monk. “FFA will continue to expand opportunities for youth to be involved in agriculture and in their own personal development as we grow Virginia FFA’s platform and footprint.”

He has also served on the board of directors for the Virginia Association of Agricultural Educators and the Virginia Association for Career and Technical Education.

Monk is an alumnus of Virginia Tech, where he received his bachelor’s in agribusiness management in 2013. He hopes to complete a master's in agricultural, leadership, and community education next year.