Age: 17
Hometown: Prairie Grove, Ark.
Parents: Jonathan and Melanie Kelley
FFA Chapter: Prairie Grove FFA
Advisors: Clint and Sarah Hale
What is your involvement in agriculture?
“When I was 2 years old my family moved to a small farm west of Prairie Grove, Ark. We have raised a variety of animals, including horses, goats, chickens, guineas and donkeys. I joined 4-H and FFA with a livestock show project of raising and showing dairy goats. Since a young age I have been responsible for feeding, watering, medicating, birthing and fitting my show goats, as well as training them before upcoming show seasons. Since I began my show career young, I have thought in the past about showing a different type of animal. But a few years ago, my mom became a superintendent in the dairy goat barn at our county fair, and I decided instead I would rather push myself to be the best I could be in the species I was already showing. I have had countless opportunities through the FFA. I have competed in CDE judging contests and I have also competed in LDE contests. I am currently serving as our FFA chapter secretary.”
What is your favorite part of being involved in agriculture?
“Being able to help make the world a better place, even if it is through small impacts. Especially by using better farming practices and fighting for animal welfare.”
What are your future plans?
“In the future I hope to continue being involved in agriculture and farming. After this year I hope to attend the University of Arkansas to obtain a poultry science degree, with a minor in ag business. Then eventually go into the poultry science field through Tyson. I also hope to one day run for state FFA office.”
