Page:United States Statutes at Large Volume 107 Part 3.djvu/684

 107 STAT. 2622 PROCLAMATION 6531—FEB. 25, 1993 ninety-three, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and seventeenth. . WILLIAM J. CLINTON Proclamation 6531 of February 25, 1993 National FFA Organization Awareness Week, 1993 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation America's roots run deep in agriculture. We have long prospered through the twin blessings of our natural resources and the productivity of the American farmer. Agriculture has contributed heavily to the economic and social progress of the United States, making our Nation the world's largest exporter of food products and a generous provider of food aid around the world. For more than two centiules, our food, agricultural, and natiu'al resource system has been nurtured and sustained by dedicated people committed to providing safe and abimdant food and fiber products. About 20 percent of the Nation's work force is engaged in jobs related to agriculture, and annual employment openings in this industry are expected to outpace the supply of trained workers. The education and training of agricultural workers have, therefore, long been a national priority, leading to the development of a comprehensive system of agricultural education in our public schools. The National Future Farmers of America was founded in 1928 to serve the needs of secondary students preparing for leadership roles in the science, business, and technology of agriculture. Chartered by Congress in 1950, the FFA is an integral part of public instruction in agriculture and today provides premier leadership, personal growth, and career development to its 401,574 members. Local, State, and national activities as well as award programs provide opportunities for students to apply knowledge and skills acquired through agricultLiral education. FFA members strive to develop agricultural leadership, cooperation, and citizenship. The National FFA Foundation, which raises funds in support of FFA programs, represents an exemplary partnership between business and education. The National FFA Alumni Association provides support to these yoimg men and women on local. State, and national levels. The strategic importance of our food, agricultural, and natural resource system will grow during the coming decade. This will require even stronger leaders, more creative scientists, greater international business understanding, and increased sensitivity for consimiers and the environment. These skilled professionals will chart the course of U.S. food, agricultiu-al, and natural resources in the 1990s and beyond. The National FFA Organization, by attracting yoimg people to agriculture and preparing them for future careers, contributes greatly to an important sector of the national economy. It is proper that we should honor the accomplishments and achievements of this fine organization.

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