Hometown: Mayflower Ark.
Parents: Brenda and Scotty Richardson
Siblings: Austin Richardson
FFA Chapter: Mayflower FFA
Chapter Advisor: Morgan Seymore
What is your involvement in agriculture? My family did not grow up on a farm or know much about agriculture, but when I was younger, I sure loved animals, specifically pigs. I couldn’t tell you what initially sparked this interest, but I knew I wanted one of my own. After years of begging my parents for a pet, they caved and bought our first mini pig which we kept in our backyard. After a few years of caring for our mini pig, I discovered the show industry after visiting our county fair. I immediately asked my parents if I could show, and there it began. Since that moment, my family has taken part in an unforgettable, life-changing, and remarkable “hobby”. It was our vacations, time spent together and nightly activities. We worked diligently together to accomplish both the smallest and most complex tasks. The skills I learned in the barn have taken me farther than I could have ever imagined. The friendships, mentors and experiences that came along the way will always be a resource in my back pocket.
While I started my journey into the world of agriculture by showing pigs in 4H, I quickly fell in love with the FFA organization. Since I zipped up my first blue jacket, I have advocated for a life filled with blue and gold even landing a position as the Arkansas FFA Reporter working to educate the public on all of the amazing things FFA has to offer. During my time as a member, I have served our state association in many capacities. The first was as a National Delegate in 2022 to advocate the beliefs of the Arkansas FFA Association on a national level with state offices and influential FFA members from across the nation. I have also competed in a variety of contests advancing to the state level on several occasions.
What is your favorite part of being involved in agriculture? I love the diversity of opportunities with the realm of agriculture. There is truly a place for every individual to thrive and find their passion. Before I joined FFA, I had no idea what I wanted to do after high school, but there is no better support system that those rooted within agriculture. I have made so many connections and friendships that will never be forgotten and I can’t wait to see what these incredible individuals accomplish in their lives. As agriculturists, we are the future of our nation and the world, so it is important that we stand behind the agriculture industry and help others find their place within it.
What are your future plans? It is hard to say where I see myself in the future, but one thing is for sure, FFA and agriculture will always be a part of my life. Even if it is not within my career path, I will never be able to disconnect from this amazing organization. I plan to help support my home chapter’s alumni program, the state association and help develop the school’s program I will teach at one day.
