Age: 18
Hometown: Lebanon, Mo.
Parents: Phil and Kim Menley
Sibling: Clay Menley
FFA Chapter: Lebanon FFA
Advisors: Craig Evans, Tommy Inman, Nick Guthery
What is your involvement in agriculture?
“Growing up, my grandparents, Mike and Laura Hillhouse, had a dairy farm. From the time I could walk I was in my rubber boots helping my grandma feed the bottle calves. This is where my passion for agriculture started. My family has always had a small cow/calf operation. We primarily run Charolais. I began showing hogs at the Laclede County Fair in 2017. I’ve also had the unique experience of raising dogs. My parents are the owners of Osage Fork Puppies, LLC. We raise Labradoodles and Goldendoodles. This is my SAE Project, as I own one of our females, Margaret Mae.”
What is your favorite part of being involved in agriculture?
“All of the animals I interact with daily. Each animal is unique in giving me some kind of life lesson.”
What are your future plans?
“After high school, I will be going to realtors school while I’m going to college to get my agricultural business degree. My goal is to primarily work with farmers on buying and selling property.”
What’s the best advice about agriculture you have received?
“The animals are demanding, the work is never ending, but you will never find another career that is more rewarding. I can’t pick a specific person who told me this, because I have heard this from all of my family members.”
What advice would you give to other young people who want to be involved in agriculture?
“Find something within the agricultural industry – whether it’s cattle, hogs, chicken, or dogs – you’ll be more successful when you’re enjoying what you’re doing.”
What awards have you received?
“I have received the Star Award as a greenhand, chapter and junior, and first place at the Area 10 fall speaking for topics of Missouri Young Farmers/Young Farm Wives and Missouri Pet Breeders Association. I also won first-place at the FBLA districts for the topic of agribusiness.”
