By Ember McElrath 

Now in her senior year of high school, Jacqueline Bandy has been involved in agriculture the majority of her life.

“I have grown up on a cattle ranch, helping my family with the operation. In 2013, the Bandy Ranch Feed Store opened as my parents’ way to better provide for the agriculture community of Northeast Oklahoma. I now work at the feed store,” said Bandy. “These agricultural influences guided me into FFA as well as my grandpa and father being alumni of the organization.”

Bandy was eager to join FFA growing up, but she patiently bided her time in 4-H until eighth grade when she was finally able to officially be part of the Vinita High School FFA.

“In FFA, I compete in speech, agriscience fair, and livestock judging,” Bandy said.

Being involved in a variety of aspects of FFA gives Bandy the opportunity to get a wide range of experiences. 

“At every event you meet new people and see old friends. Getting to know people from across the state and across the nation is amazing and I have learned so much through the experience of just being involved.”

The program has taught Bandy more than she could have ever imagined. 

“FFA has taught me the power of coming together,” Bandy said. “As a local chapter we have put on different events and competed together to accomplish our goals. I have learned my skills of being a hard working team member through FFA.”

This year Bandy is most looking forward to spring speech and agriscience fair competitions as well as spending time with her amazing team members. 

Not only is Bandy highly involved in FFA, but she is also busy in cross country, basketball, the track team, student council, as well as being the president of the Vinita HS National Honor Society. 

After high school Bandy does not plan on leaving her agriculture roots behind, but rather is looking to grow them. She plans to earn a bachelor’s degree in animal science and then a doctorate in veterinary medicine.