From Blue Jackets to Crowns: How FFA Shaped Fair Queen Leaders
Paris Van Dyke in her queen attire with her sheep at the Clay County Fair.
When people think of FFA, they may picture livestock, judging competitions and blue jackets — not crowns and evening gowns. But for some young women, the lessons they learned in FFA have led them to the stage — and far beyond.
As a county fair queen, you are not only a model of excellence, leadership and grace, but also a passionate advocate for the agriculture industry. The same way FFA emphasizes premier leadership, personal growth and career success, county fair pageants promote many of the same skills, while educating contestants about agriculture, building confidence and encouraging networking abilities.
A Passion Rooted in Agriculture
“Growing up on a farm, I’ve always had a passion for advocating for agriculture,” says 2024 Miss Clay County Queen Paris Van Dyke, who is also an American FFA Degree recipient and Illinois FFA Alumna. “Whether it was helping younger FFA members learn how to show livestock or mentoring girls as they prepared for the county fair pageant, I’ve always enjoyed supporting others.
“My experiences in FFA prepared me for serving as a county fair queen in countless ways, especially through developing strong communication skills and confidence. During my time in the blue jacket, I competed in various leadership development events (LDEs) and career development events (CDEs), with my favorite being Creed speaking.
“As a freshman, I memorized the powerful words written by E.M. Tiffany and placed second in the state. Preparing for that contest required hours of practice reciting the creed, answering questions and refining my delivery. That process closely mirrors pageant preparation, where I worked to perfect my onstage speech, walk and overall presence. Both experiences also involve interviewing with a panel of judges, where you share your passions, qualifications and love for agriculture.”
Van Dyke after receiving her State FFA Degree at the 2023 Illinois FFA State Convention.
Leadership That Lasts Beyond the Stage
When looking past the blue jackets and crowns, the skills built from these experiences have been life changing for Van Dyke and countless others. “Both FFA and pageantry have shaped me into a leader who is passionate about serving others and advocating for agriculture,” she says. “Through these experiences, I’ve had the opportunity to participate in and lead community service projects at the county, section and state levels, which has strengthened my ability to connect with and inspire others. They have also built my confidence in networking and communication, while surrounding me with knowledgeable and inspiring mentors.
“One of the most influential leaders in my life is my agricultural teacher, who is also my mom: Katrina Van Dyke. She has shown me that leadership is a learned trait. By observing and learning from those who embody the qualities we admire, we can grow into stronger leaders ourselves. Leadership doesn’t happen overnight, and it comes with challenges. However, I believe that by setting our minds on meaningful goals and leading with kindness and purpose, we can create a lasting impact on those around us.”
Confidence, Community and Connection
Current FFA member and 2025 Miss Georgetown Fair Queen Jordyn Fourez has broken barriers throughout her reign as one of the youngest queens to compete at the Miss Illinois County Fair Queen Pageant. At just 16 years old, she also credits FFA with shaping her confidence and drive.
“I’ve met so many incredible people through FFA, and that’s helped me gain confidence speaking to crowds and connecting with others,” Fourez says. “FFA has taught me to be proud of where I come from, and I can’t thank my advisor enough for always believing in me. I’m constantly being pushed to grow, and that’s what keeps me motivated to try new things.”
As a student-athlete involved in multiple activities, Fourez encourages others to stay engaged. “It doesn’t matter what you do, as long as you enjoy it,” she says. “I couldn’t imagine my high school experience without being involved.”
2025 Miss Georgetown Fair Queen Jordyn Fourez.
Her passion for agriculture remains at the pinnacle of her platform. “County fairs aren’t just rides or food — you have to visit the barns to see the hard work behind the scenes,” she says. “FFA and 4-H members spend countless hours preparing for just minutes in the ring. Any chance we get to share that work means everything.”
Grounded in her faith, Fourez looks to 1 Timothy 4:12 as a reminder to lead with purpose. “We’re called to be leaders and take ownership of what we love,” she says. “As students, we should continue to share our passions with our communities.”
Fourez poses with her fair queen sash in front of the Illinois State Capitol for Ag Legislative Day.
More Than a Crown: Defining True Success
While crowns may symbolize achievement, it is the lessons learned long before stepping on stage that truly define these young women. Through FFA, they have gained the confidence to speak, the leadership to serve and the passion to advocate for an industry that feeds and fuels the world.
Whether wearing a blue jacket or a crown, their purpose remains the same: to lead with authenticity, uplift others and share the story of agriculture. In the end, success isn’t defined by the title they hold, but by the impact they make long after the spotlight fades.
