California FFA President Reflects on Leadership Journey

Lily Vaughan shares how the iconic blue jacket and FFA experiences shaped her personal view of influence and inspired her to lead with purpose.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Lily Vaughan, the 2025-26 California FFA state president, reflects on how joining FFA and wearing the iconic blue jacket challenged her to step outside her comfort zone, take bold risks, and use her voice to lead with purpose. From competing in speech contests to running for state office, Vaughan shares how the support of her FFA community and the belief they had in her gave her the courage to turn her dreams into action and make a meaningful impact.

Why it matters

Vaughan's story highlights how FFA provides a platform for students from diverse backgrounds to develop essential leadership skills, build confidence, and discover their ability to make a difference - not just in agriculture, but in their communities and beyond. As the No. 1 industry, agriculture needs passionate, purpose-driven leaders who are willing to learn, listen, and inspire others.

The details

Vaughan first noticed the power of words and influence when watching her older brother compete in a speech contest as a child. That experience planted a seed about what true leadership could look like. It was through joining FFA, competing in events like Livestock Judging and Creed Speaking, and attending the California State Leadership Conference that Vaughan's understanding of leadership grew. Running for the state FFA office was a bold risk, but Vaughan was inspired by the belief of her teammates, advisers, and community. As state president, Vaughan learned that leadership is deeply personal, requiring vulnerability, teamwork, and a willingness to ask for help.

  • Vaughan joined FFA her freshman year of high school.
  • She was elected to serve as the 2025-26 California FFA state president.
  • Vaughan will deliver her retiring address at the end of her term this year.

The players

Lily Vaughan

The 2025-26 California FFA state president and a senior at Las Plumas High School in Oroville.

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What they’re saying

“Before I ever wore the iconic blue jacket that's become a key symbol of FFA, I paid attention to words. I noticed how the way something was said could make people feel seen, challenged or hopeful.”

— Lily Vaughan, California FFA State President (agalert.com)

“Running for state office was one of the boldest risks I have ever taken. I did not feel perfectly qualified, but I did feel called. With that calling came familiar fears: Do I have a story worth sharing? Is there someone more prepared for this role?”

— Lily Vaughan, California FFA State President (agalert.com)

“Serving as California FFA state president has taught me that leadership is deeply personal. It is not about having the fanciest resume or the most impressive title. On the hardest days, leadership means asking for help and admitting when I cannot give my best. It means leaning on my team, my adviser and the people who reminded me that I was never meant to do this alone.”

— Lily Vaughan, California FFA State President (agalert.com)

What’s next

Vaughan will deliver her retiring address as California FFA state president at the end of her term this year, passing the torch to the next generation of student leaders.

The takeaway

Vaughan's journey in FFA demonstrates how the organization empowers students from all backgrounds to develop essential leadership skills, find their voice, and make a meaningful impact - not just in agriculture, but in their communities and the world beyond. Her story inspires other students to take bold risks, lean on their support systems, and lead with purpose.