Essex, Missouri - Richland R-1 School was honored on Wednesday morning to have National FFA Organization’s National Vice President Stephen McBride come and speak to the district's Future Farmers of America organization.

McBride spoke to the group about how important it is to be a leader in their community, the importance of building character and several of his experiences while in FFA when he was in high school.

“It was an honor to have Stephen here at the school to speak to our students,” said Richland FFA adviser Jarrod Basler. “The national officers only visit our area every seven years, so it was certainly a treat to have him with us today to talk about leadership, character and his experience while in Future Farmers of America .”

McBride, who is from Jackson, Tenn., said during his stop that he has visited 31 states while on the speaking tour for the National FFA Organization. Due to his extensive travel, McBride was forced to take a one year sabbatical from the University of Tennessee - Martin.

The students were very excited to meet Stephen and enjoyed their time with him.

Richland R-1 FFA’s will have their annual fruit and meat sales beginning October 8th.  Please contact Mr. Basler at jbasler@richland.k12.mo.us for more information.

Photos by Skie Pinkley

Top Photos - Richland R-1 School’s FFA poses for a photo with National FFA Organization Vice President Stephen McBride after McBride spoke to the students on Wednesday morning. McBride also visited Dexter, Malden and Bernie schools on Wednesday.

Bottom Photo - National FFA Organization Vice President Stephen McBride speaks to the students at Richland R-1 School during his stop on Wednesday. McBride is a former state officer for Future Farmers of America in Tennessee and is currently in the middle of the national-wide speaking tour for the national organization.