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Back Talk: Paul McCutchan

1932-33 National FFA Officer

Back Talk: Paul McCutchan


January 2008

For West Virginia FFA alumnus Paul McCutchan, the annual national convention is a time for reminiscing with old friends and meeting new ones. As a former national FFA officer (in 1932-33, to be exact), McCutchan is no stranger to the spotlight, and it’s a good thing, since he’s often stopped by convention attendees during his walks through the career show, visits to the general sessions and even on the streets. They all want to hear about his experiences with FFA, how the organization was different when he was a member and how it’s changed his life. We found out. Read on for McCutchan’s words of wisdom. 

Q
How did you first become involved with FFA?

A
Well, I helped start it! The first year I was in high school, which was 1928, Future Farmers of America (as it was called then) was created. I was raised on a farm, so it was good for me to join.

Q
Have you continued farming throughout your life?

A
I’ve had a farm most of my life. At one point, I had 1,200 acres and cut timber on most of it. I still cut hay and timber every year, with the help of my son-in-law. We put up about 4,000 bales of hay each year.

Q
What did you learn from your FFA experience?

A
I learned how to invest my time and money into a project. That relates to everything in life. You had a project, kept records and learned about work. That’s why so many big companies today are led by former FFA members.

Q
What is one of your favorite memories from your national officer year?

A
Our national officer team took a trip to Washington, D.C., in January of 1933. We met President Roosevelt right after he was elected, and his speech to us was the first he had given to anyone. It was my first trip to D.C., and we had a Cadillac that chauffeured us around. For a West Virginia farm boy, that was a big deal. 

Q
You’re wearing an FFA jacket with your name and national office. Do you still have your original jacket?

A
My original national officer jacket had buttons, but it was lost in the 1950 flood. Luckily, they got me a new one to wear to the convention each year.

Q
What do you most enjoy about returning to the national FFA convention?

A
It brings back memories. And, I like to see people make something out of their lives. There is no other organization with as many top-notch members.



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