Like many of her peers, Cayti Dugan started raising and working livestock at a young age. She was in elementary school when she got her first taste of FFA.

“I first got involved with FFA in the fifth grade,” said Dugan. “The way I started showing was actually involuntary in the best way. My parents wanted me to start something where I would learn some work ethic, and this definitely was the best way to go about it.”

Now a junior at Altus High School, Dugan is still involved in the FFA chapter at school as well as participating with the varsity cheer squad.

Dugan has several things she enjoys about FFA. From the animals to the people, Dugan said her favorite things usually evolve around the livestock.

“My favorite part about being in FFA is working with my calves. The activities I am involved in with FFA is showing steers, but I used to show pigs, and do quiz bowl competitions. I show steers and have been for five years. I showed pigs for three years when I was younger,” said Dugan.

Dugan said her parents are the biggest influences in her life and without them she would be lost.

“My mom had given me some of the best advice that I needed in the hardest times. My dad would help me with anything in the blink of an eye, and he’s taught me the best lessons to become an adult and be on my own. My parents would do anything for me, and I am so grateful that I have them,” said Dugan.

Dugan said she is looking forward to cheer camp this summer and working with her co-mascot, Shelby Spradlin. After graduation, Dugan said she plans to attend Oklahoma State University and pursue a career in child psychology.