Like many of her peers, Madelyn Cruse of Woodward High School, got involved in FFA when she entered the eighth grade. With some encouragement from a couple of FFA officers, Cruse made the decision to join the FFA chapter at school and she’s never looked back.
“After being a member of Woodward County 4 H Happy Clover club for three years, I was led to join FFA to continue showing livestock,” Cruse said. “Two individuals that encouraged me to join the FFA were former chapter member Sofey Burnett and former Oklahoma FFA State Officer, Emily Beaner. These amazing individuals opened the vast world of the FFA to me at a young age and helped prepare me to be a leader to others, just as they were to me.”
For Cruse, being part of the FFA program is more than just livestock and shows. It’s about the people.
“I enjoy the responsibility, leadership roles and friendships that I have been given. Being able to guide others in this program as a Chapter FFA officer has been one of the most rewarding opportunities I have experienced. This has not only helped me in the responsibility aspect but has also given me a bond and new friendships with other members within our chapter,” said Cruse.
Cruse is involved in the Show Team, livestock judging team, prepared public speaking, community service events and is currently serving as our chapter Treasurer. This year she is showing market lambs and had previously shown market goats.At school, Cruse is a member of National Honor Society, SALT, which is the Superintendents Advisory Leadership Team, and she is an athletic trainer for our football team.
The sophomore said her biggest influences are her Pa and Nana. She hopes to cone day attend OSU and major in Agribusiness or possibly take the pre-law route.
