Mississippi Gamma Jessica Smith looked stunning in her red jacket and turquoise jewelry. She had a gold pin on her left lapel, which represented one of the agriculture-based organizations she is involved in.

Her love of farming started way before she arrived at Mississippi State University (MSU) to study agriculture information science with a communications concentration. Jessica is proud that she grew up on a farm in Picayune, Mississippi, overseeing 50 head of beef cattle. According to Jessica, being raised on a farm “Taught me responsibility, how to be a good steward for what you have and the business side of running a farm.” She has a real passion for raising beef cattle and wants to stay in the field.

At the age of four, Jessica showed her first cow. It was named Chocolate Chip Cookie. She grew up being involved in Head, Heart, Hands and Health (4H) and Future Farmers of America (FFA) organizations.

At age 16, Jessica began serving on the Board of Trustees for the American Junior Simmental Organization (AJSO), promoting the Simmental breed of beef cattle. She is one of 16 members and represents the Eastern region. Members of the Board are responsible for fundraising, community service, professional development and youth development training. After four years, Jessica will complete her final term as a member of the Board.

At MSU, Jessica is currently active in Collegiate FFA in which she helps at the local high school to prepare their members for state competitions and community showings. She is also a member of Collegiate CattleWomen Association, affiliated with the American National CattleWomen Association, which is focused on promoting the beef industry around the local Starkville community. In addition to what she does on campus, Jessica holds a part-time position on a farm outside of Starkville.

With Jessica at the helm of positive promotion, the future of farming in America looks bright!