Hometown: Osage Beach, Mo.
Parents: Matt and Sherrie Hamner
Sibling: Emery Hamner
FFA Chapter: Lake Career and Technical Center
Advisor: Josh Toops
4-H Club: Easy Riders 4-H
Club Leader: Christina Landry
What is your involvement in agriculture?
“Unfortunately, I’ve never had the opportunity to live on a farm. I got my start in agriculture through riding horses. At 10 years old I joined a local equine UH Club, the EASY Riders 4-H. Once I entered high school, l I decided that horses could somewhat be considered ag so I joined FFA. This decision altered my life and has helped me to learn more about and advocate for the agriculture industry.”
What is your favorite part of being involved in agriculture?
“My favorite part of being involved in agriculture is having the opportunity to educate others and advocate with in the community. As a part of the Ag Ed on the Move program, I have had the opportunity to share the importance of agriculture with local fourth-grade students. Being able to share my passion and bring that excitement into their classes is an incredible feeling.”
What are your future plans? Do they involve agriculture in some way?
“After graduation, I plan to pursue a career in veterinary medicine with an emphasis on disease research. Livestock production is incredibly important to both our industry and our global food supply, but in order to protect these animals we need to have a better understanding of how to limit and fight diseases. To accomplish these goals, I plan to acquire my doctorate of veterinary medicine (DVM ) and Masters of public health (MPH) from the University of Missouri or Colorado State University.”
Awards: “Through the FFA, I have received a variety of awards, including Star Greenhand, Star Chapter Degree and Star Officer. This year, I have also been elected a Missouri FFA Association State Vice President.”
