After wanting to be an orthodontist up until the 10th grade, it was my very own agricultural educator, Mrs. Short, who influenced me to take the path of agriscience education. Because I was in the intra-curricular activity of the FFA (formerly Future Farmers of America) myself, I was familiar with the organization and knew I had a passion for the agriculture industry. I wanted to be just like Mrs. Short - an inspiration to my students about agriculture and an important support system.

One memory comes to mind from 2023 when my FFA chapter hosted its 14th Annual Benefit fundraiser (an event to raise funds for a community member). I have always said that I am not a teacher, but rather a facilitator of learning. Because of this, I challenge my students to practice their own leadership skills through the planning of FFA events (in this case the auctions and sponsorships for our fundraiser). The FFA student officer team surpassed their goal of $40,000 and raised over $80,000!

One goal I have always had for myself is to have the funds to eventually donate to Ohio FFA Camp Muskingum. Not only did I attend camp when I was a student myself, but I now bring my own students every summer to the happiest place on dirt. Students spend a week without cell phones and participating in outdoor education activities with other FFA members from around Ohio. If any of the prize money were to be allotted for personal use, I would use some to put toward my student loans from college.