THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF E.M. TIFFANY AND THE FFA CREED TO LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT WITHIN THE FFA

Abstract

The FFA Creed by E.M. Tiffany has influenced the lives of countless FFA members. However, the creed has received little attention in terms of its origin. A creed is a foundational component for many organizations. It serves to establish collective vision and goals with the intent of providing purpose and direction to the individual as well as the organization. This historical research study investigated the origins of the FFA Creed, the motivations of its author E.M. Tiffany, how it has been modified over its history, and its use as a leadership development tool through creed speaking events. The FFA Creed was written by E.M. Tiffany in 1928 and officially adopted by the National FFA Organization in 1930. The creed was revised twice to form the current version. A new FFA Creed was proposed in 1990 and overwhelmingly rejected by a committee of delegates to the national FFA convention. The impact of the creed on leadership development has been substantial. Local, state, and national career development events have been created to enhance this leadership development opportunity. The creed has evidenced a resilience through the last 80 years and continues to provide leadership, direction and value to current and former FFA members.