Name: Kayla Cox, 17 – entering her Senior year at Cabool High School
Parents: Craig Cox and Debra Cox
FFA Chapter: Cabool High School
Advisor: Mr. Scott Long
How are you involved in agriculture?
“I grew up on my great grandpa’s farm,” said Kayla. “I have six Angus cows, two calves, two show steers, 20 chickens, a couple of ducks, five show pigs, one boar and two gilts,” she explained. “I’ve always lived close to the farm and when my grandpa passed away, we moved out here to the farm. I helped my dad on the farm, doing chores and spent a lot of time here.” Kayla now lives on the 700 acres family farm with her mom.
Achievements through agriculture?
“At first I was not very responsive, but overtime my advisor, Mr. Long, got me involved and I ended up in the FFA Knowledge contest. Then, I interviewed for an officer position as a sophomore and was selected as the secretary. That was a pretty big accomplishment for me at the time,” she added. “At the end of my sophomore year, I interviewed and achieved the office of president for my junior year and was selected as president again for my senior year. Before I knew it, FFA was my life.” Kayla is also in her second year as an Area FFA Officer. “Last year I served as parliamentarian and this year I am serving as sentinel.”
Future plans?
“There are so many opportunities for college, but I am very interested in becoming a vet. I want to work with both large and small animals – I’ve always had a soft spot for dogs and cats, and hope to come back to the area to work,” she said.
Story and Photo by Stephanie Beltz-Price
