Gratitude Builds Pride!

Growing Our Future

Dr. Arquimides Reyes shares his inspiring journey from a small farm in El Salvador to becoming an associate professor of animal science at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. His story exemplifies how agricultural education, mentorship, and the FFA can transform lives and create leaders who give back to their communities.
• Grateful for family, God, teaching opportunities, and the FFA which instilled purpose and passion for agriculture
• Grew up on a small dairy and beef farm in El Salvador before coming to the United States at age 11
• Initially viewed agriculture as "the job of the poor" until FFA showed him the true potential of agricultural careers
• Nearly dropped out of high school to work full-time and support his family
• The FFA jacket became a symbol of opportunity that "levels the playing field" for all students
• Graduated as valedictorian and pursued higher education at Texas A&M and Colorado State University
• Identifies adaptability, communication skills, and integrity as keys to success in agriculture
• Currently serves as an associate professor and volunteer firefighter, committed to giving back to his community
• Believes "when your values are clear, your choices are easy"
Go out and do something great for somebody – encourage them, equip them, empower them. Plant great seeds and grow an incredible future.
Learn more at MyTexasFFA.org

Chapters

1. Welcome to Growing Our Future (00:00:00)

2. Archimedes Reyes: Gratitude First (00:02:38)

3. From El Salvador to Agricultural Education (00:05:50)

4. The Life-Changing FFA Experience (00:13:35)

5. Opening Doors Through Mentorship (00:22:52)

6. Finding Success Through Adaptability (00:31:07)

7. The Impact of Giving Back (00:38:57)

8. Final Thoughts: Plant Trees for Future Generations (00:43:12)