Colfax resident named national FFA president

COLFAX - Colfax resident Cole Baerlocher was chosen as the Future Farmers of America (FFA) national president.

During the 94th annual convention in Indianapolis, six officers were chosen to lead the organization.

"It is a mixture of excitement and humility," said Baerlocher. "Taking this seriously and making every effort to do my best and to make those impacts is going to be a main focus and main goal for me this coming year."

He likes to travel and is looking forward to meeting new members this year.

"The FFA has shaped who I am. It made me understand the ability and strength that I have." said Baerlocher.

He credits the support from his family, friends and FFA, even when he faced challenging times. During the pandemic, the FFA equipped students with the ability to push through and persevere.

"That is the spirit of the agriculture industry and what people have gone through to put food on our tables ... it is about pushing through adversity," Baerlocher said.

He said the FFA contributes to students learning to deal with adversity and get through the everyday challenges people face.

Baerlocher encourages people to participate in the FFA organization.

"There is a place for you in our industry. That is the lesson I learned," he said, "It's not just about farming. There is biotechnology, crop science, (and) crop research. My biggest word of advice is don't count yourself out. You have a place. You have a role to serve."