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Back Talk: Corey Flournoy

Former Illinois FFA member finds career in ag. ed.

Back Talk: Corey Flournoy


November 2007

If you need a good example of someone whose career has truly been impacted by FFA, just talk to Corey Flournoy. A native of Chicago, Ill., Flournoy joined the FFA chapter at the Chicago High School for Agricultural Science without knowing his FFA experience would someday shape his future career.

Today, Flournoy serves as a faculty member in the agricultural education program at the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign. There, Flournoy helps prepare college students to become high school agriculture teachers. In his spare time, he continues his love for public speaking by presenting keynote addresses and leadership training – skills he acquired and developed as an FFA member.

Q You obviously jumped right into your FFA career, later being named the national FFA president in 1991-92 – the first from an urban environment. What was that experience like for you?
A The greatest obstacle I encountered was learning to feel comfortable being Corey despite the expectations I felt were placed on me. Anyone who is considered the “first” – in anything – endures the burden of upholding a certain image and level of skill. As an FFA member myself, I lacked role models who were from nontraditional communities or minorities – particularly in leadership roles. I wanted to serve as that role model for future students.

Q How did FFA play a positive role in your life?
A I can definitely say that FFA changed my life for the better. The opportunities to learn critical thinking skills, independence, creative thinking and overall personal drive have translated into my own career advancement and opportunities to mentor others into similar careers.



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