FFA members from across the country are gathering in Indianapolis this week for the 98th National FFA Convention, and among them is Oklahoma’s own Madilyn Norvell, representing the state in the National Creed Contest. Madilyn spoke with senior farm and ranch broadcaster Ron Hays about this opportunity. Growing up on a family farm, Madilyn says agriculture has always been a central part of her life. “We are involved in beef production. I have my own herd of Angus and Hereford cattle,” she explained. Her early involvement in FFA came naturally: “My dad always involved me in speeches and livestock judging,” she said, adding that she’s since competed in a variety of events including Quiz Bowl, creed speaking, and livestock shows. “I really have a passion for this industry, and FFA kind of helps bring it out in me.”
Representing Oklahoma on the national stage is no small task, but Madilyn embraces the opportunity. She says her motivation goes beyond competition: “As there continues to be fewer of us involved in agriculture, I have to step up and be a younger advocate.” She believes communication and leadership are key skills for her generation. “If I continue to get my communication skills and learn these leadership ways, I can carry this on throughout my whole life and help promote agriculture,” she explained.
Preparing for the creed contest has given her a deeper appreciation for the words behind it. “A lot of people take for granted the true meaning of the Creed,” she reflected. “They just see it as this thing that needs to be recited… but it truly has so many good statements in it that no matter what industry you’re in, you can carry into your life.” One line in particular stands out to her: “I believe in leadership from ourselves and respect from others.” Madilyn said that phrase “is so important no matter what industry you’re in, because we must be leaders ourselves and respect others and also respect ourselves.”
She also shared her thoughts on the modernized version of the Creed, which now says “I believe in the future of agriculture” rather than “I believe in the future of farming.” Madilyn sees that as an important and inclusive update. “My dad went into a different area… he’s an agricultural lobbyist and advocates daily to help promote laws and policies that are going to benefit us,” she said. For her, this demonstrates that agriculture reaches far beyond the farm. “Whether you be a scientific researcher, involved in mechanics and welding, or in a show barn — it doesn’t matter. The way that you are involved in agriculture is vital, no matter how big or small of a role you play.”
For Madilyn, FFA and agricultural education are much more than organizations—they’re a family. “FFA, in ag education, is honestly a family to me. It is a way that I connect with people that I can carry throughout my life,” she said. The support from her ag teachers has been especially meaningful: “They are so involved in my life, and it’s so important that each child feels that they have someone who wants to see them succeed.” She hopes that future educators continue to inspire and lead young people in agriculture just as her teachers have done for her.
As she prepares to take the national stage, Madilyn says she carries with her not just the words of the Creed but the spirit behind them. Quoting E.M. Tiffany’s classic work, she proudly recited: “I believe in the future of agriculture with a faith born not of words but of deeds… in the promise of better days through better ways.” Her dedication, passion, and belief in agriculture reflect exactly what the FFA Creed was meant to inspire — a commitment to leadership, respect, and the enduring strength of America’s agricultural community.
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