STATE DISCUSSION MEET:
The Discussion Meet is designed to simulate a committee meeting where discussion and active participation are expected from each participant. This competition is evaluated on an exchange of ideas and information on a pre-determined topic. Participants build basic discussion skills, develop a keen understanding of important agricultural issues and explore how groups can pool knowledge to reach consensus and solve problems. Successful participants are productive thinkers rather than emotional persuaders and assist the group in creating ways to implement the solutions discussed and highlight Farm Bureau’s involvement in those actions/steps.
*The State Discussion Meet happens at the TFBF Annual Convention in December.
COLLEGIATE DISCUSSION MEET:
The Collegiate Discussion Meet is designed to simulate a committee meeting where discussion and active participation are expected from each college-age participant. This competition is evaluated on an exchange of ideas and information on a predetermined topic. Participants build basic discussion skills, develop a keen understanding of important agricultural issues and explore how groups can pool knowledge to reach consensus and solve problems. Successful participants are productive thinkers rather than emotional persuaders and assist the group in creating ways to implement the solutions discussed and highlight Farm Bureau’s involvement in those actions/steps.
All undergraduate agriculture students or undergraduate students involved in agriculture in someway are encouraged to participate in this professional development contest. Farm Bureau membership is required and only cost $30 per year per family. If you or your family has any Farm Bureau services, you may already be a member. The contest will be held during Tennessee Young Farmers and Ranchers Summer Conference in July in Lebanon. Apply below to be in the contest and contact your county Farm Bureau office to register for the conference. Contact Dan Strasser for the Discussion Meet Guide.
2026-2027 Tennessee YF&R Discussion Meet and Collegiate Discussion Meet Topics
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Growth in rural areas can strain rural energy infrastructure. How can Farm Bureau work with stakeholders to advocate for proactive planning at the local, state and national levels that safeguards affordable, reliable energy access for farmers and ranchers as well as their rural neighbors while protecting farmland from unnecessary eminent domain?
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Rural and large animal veterinary practices and professionals continue to decrease in numbers across the country. How can Farm Bureau help attract and retain rural and large animal veterinarians for member communities?
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With the continued ripple effect of supply chain challenges related to meat processing, how can Farm Bureau leverage its grassroots network to reduce barriers and create pathways for the development of local USDA certified meat processing?
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How can Farm Bureau and its young leaders leverage relationships with agricultural youth organizations to attract more young leaders to the Young Farmers & Ranchers program?
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Increased public concern over healthy diets and chronic childhood disease has raised questions, as well as criticism, about modern agriculture and the food system. How can Farm Bureau effectively engage in this discussion and advocate for the critical science-based tools and research farmers need to fulfill their commitment to grow healthy, sustainable food, fiber and fuel?
*Email Dan Strasser at dstrasser@tfbf.com for this year’s discussion meet book.
As part of your application, you MUST submit a complete an Award Recipients Packet (W9 and ACH info with proof of account routing). Find the packet below and upload it when prompted at the end of your application.
Discussion Meet Registration
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