In what year did the first African-American serve as a national officer of the FFA?

The first African-American served as a national officer of the FFA in 1974, a significant milestone for the organization. This event marked a critical moment in FFA history, highlighting the inclusiveness and diversity of the organization, as it began to break barriers within the agricultural community. The appointment of an African-American national officer demonstrated a shift towards greater representation and acknowledgment of the contributions of individuals from diverse backgrounds within agricultural education and leadership roles. This change not only reflected the evolving social dynamics of the time but also set a precedent for future leadership within the FFA, encouraging a more diverse membership and leadership base in the years to follow.