Same Passion, Different Position
Imagine growing up doing what you have been most passionate about your whole life, starting at a young age. Then, as you enter the workforce, you find yourself in a leadership role that revolves around that same passion.
Mrs. Jessica Humphrey grew up doing what she loved, and now she serves others through that same passion. Every year, Red River County holds its county fair. The fair board includes many superintendents who oversee the different livestock species, as well as Ag Mechanics projects. Among them is Humphrey, who helps oversee the overall livestock show. She explains that serving on the Red River County Fair Board is not a paid position but a volunteer commitment.
“I work for Texas A&M University under the branch of Texas A&M AgriLife Extension as the County Extension Agent for Red River County. Being a part of the fair is part of my job duties as the 4-H Advisor. I have been employed here in Red River County for 4 years, but I have been employed as an extension agent for 8 years.” Humphrey mentioned.
Before becoming an extension agent, Humphrey was once a young showman with the same heart and passion as many of the kids she works with today at that very same fair.
“I showed in the Red River County Fair from the time I was in the 3rd grade until I graduated high school. I showed commercial heifers every year. In my junior and senior years, I also showed breeding heifers. Also, fun fact, I won Commercial Heifer Showmanship every year except one, and I won Breeding Heifer Showmanship both years I competed.”
Humphrey continues to show her love for the livestock industry through her involvement in the fair.
“Being involved in the fair means a lot to me. I grew up at this fair, so it holds a special place in my heart. I want the youth that are coming now to have the same experience I did when I was growing up.” She also added, “The livestock show will always be the part that is most important to me because that is what I do for a living, but the part that stands out the most for me is the comradery between all the kids in the livestock barns. Even though they may be showing against each other. They still help each other and encourage each other throughout the show. That is a super important trait for kids to develop and carry with them.”
Behind every career choice, there is often a person, experience, or passion that helps shape the path someone takes. Sometimes, however, life leads people in a different direction than they originally planned.
“I became an Extension Agent as a Plan B option basically. I wanted to become a vet, but I couldn’t make the grades, so I had to make another plan. No one inspired me, but I am glad with my decision to become an extension agent! It allows me to learn something new every day, and also still be able to be involved with things that I like and enjoy.” she mentioned.
Behind the show ring, it takes more than one person to make the fair possible. It takes a dedicated community working together toward a common goal.
“The Red River County AIA Fair board consists of 31 volunteers that come together to plan and execute the county fair every single year! These people truly care about the fair, the youth, and the community it serves. Without every single one of them, there would be no fair!” Humphrey said.
Humphrey also shared advice for young people who are involved in showing livestock or considering a future career in the industry.
“My advice to show kids would be to enjoy every single minute. From the selection of your project to the feeding and preparation. To the show ring, ENJOY IT! If it doesn’t make you happy, don’t do it! Livestock will teach you lessons that will carry with you for the rest of your life! If you absolutely love it, then don’t be scared to pursue a career in livestock! You can make it work! For anyone that is interested in my position, I invite them to find their local extension agent and ask to shadow them for the day or come sit down with us and ask questions! It can be a very rewarding career!” stated Humphrey.
Whether it is running a county fair or pursuing a career in agriculture, success takes more than one person. It takes a dedicated community, a genuine passion, and people who are willing to give their time to help the next generation succeed. Humphrey’s journey shows how a lifelong passion can grow into a leadership role that makes a lasting difference in the lives of others.
