Growing up in a family with deep roots in agriculture is a common theme amongst members of the FFA. For Rylee Jackson of Navajo High School those roots run deeper than most. 

“I have grown up in a very agricultural rooted family. When I came into the seventh grade, I had heard about FFA and knew what it was then decided to give it a try. I have developed a love for the FFA and how it gives you not only life skills to prepare you for the future but friends from all over the state and country,” said Jackson. “All of my cousins were in FFA and had always told me I should do it with them when I got old enough. My Ag teacher at the time, Scott McCombs, had approached me many times telling me he wanted me to join the FFA to hopefully be his president someday. I took their advice and went for it.” 

For Jackson there are too many things she enjoys to list them all, but being around others in the FFA is one thing she loves most. 

“I truly enjoy the friends you make through the FFA. There are so many people I would have never met without it. I also love the animal aspect of FFA. You will always find me in the show barn working with goats or just being around animals in general. The FFA has taught me so many life skills and given me to have opportunities to grow as a leader,” said Jackson. “I am currently serving as the Navajo FFA President. I am involved in livestock showing, livestock judging, and have done opening ceremonies in the past. As an officer team we participate in many community service and leadership development events.” 

Away from FFA, Jackson said she enjoys playing softball and basketball and she helps run the Navajo FCA program. The senior also takes concurrent classes at Western Oklahoma State University working towards a degree in animal science.