Picture this: The hum of the fairgrounds, filled with the scent of fresh wood shavings, the lowing of livestock and the laughter of children. It’s a place where hard work meets heart — where the FFA motto’s final phrase, “Living to Serve,” comes alive.
For members of the Mt. Pleasant FFA Chapter, “Living to Serve” is more than a saying — it’s a commitment. From Sept. 25-27, the Titus County Fair buzzed with energy as exhibitors, teachers and volunteers celebrated agriculture, education and community. The fair featured a livestock show, agricultural mechanics projects, contests, food trucks, carnival rides and, perhaps most importantly, Education Day — a tradition connecting young students to the roots of agriculture.
Mt. Pleasant FFA Vice President Gunner Rodgers described Education Day as “a program that brings kids as young as four and as old as third grade together for a hands-on, up-close experience with livestock. The Mt. Pleasant FFA Chapter educates kids about livestock and where their food comes from.”
The program began in the late 1980s with agriculture teacher Mike Thompson, who sought to bridge the gap between the farm and the classroom. What started as an idea from his early days in agricultural education has grown into a full-fledged event where students meet animals face-to-face and learn directly from FFA members.
Today, Mount Pleasant’s agriculture teacher, Susie Hearron, continues to plan and organize Education Day, carrying forward Thompson’s vision. Her dedication ensures new generations of students experience the same excitement and curiosity that inspired the program decades ago.
“The impact is amazing!” Rodgers says. “It’s important for kids to understand where their food comes from. Knowing we’re leaving a positive impact on the future of agriculture — that’s what matters most.”
When asked what motivates him to serve, Rodgers said, “I love giving back. The community has done so much for me, so I want to give back to it.”
Thompson added that Education Day teaches more than agricultural facts. “It’s a great hands-on experience,” he says. “The students presenting to younger children are learning to speak in front of a crowd and share something meaningful. It builds confidence and lifelong skills.”
The Mt. Pleasant FFA Chapter’s dedication shines through this event. Its work demonstrates that true leadership isn’t just about showcasing livestock or winning banners — it’s about educating others, giving back, and shaping the future of agriculture.
As Rodgers says, “It’s important to work with something that matters to you. You’re living to serve.” At the Titus County Fair, that spirit of service isn’t just spoken — it’s lived every single day.
Special thanks to the Mount Pleasant agriscience teachers, Susie Hearron, Nick Riecke, Blake Denson and Rance White, and their many FFA members for inspiring the next generation to learn about agriculture.
