Leah Thompson, Fredericktown, Selected for Missouri Youth Pork Ambassador Scholarship Program

Osage Beach, Mo.,-The Missouri Pork Association (MPA) is pleased to announce the selection of Leah Thompson from Fredericktown as a Missouri Youth Pork Ambassador. Her selection was announced at the Missouri Pork Expo on February 20, 2024.

Leah is the daughter of Amy and Dmitri Thompson. She is a senior at Fredericktown High School where she will graduate in May of 2024. After graduation, Leah plans to attend Mineral Area College to pursue a degree in business administration and communications. After completing her associates, she would like to transfer to Central Methodist University.

Leah currently works for Cedar Creek Hardwoods, Jayce Mountain Pork, and Laut's Hog Farm.

She is involved in FFA where she currently serves as chapter vice president. While in high school, Leah was selected to attend Missouri AgriBusiness Academy, HYMAX academy, and HYPE academy. She also serves as Missouri's Youth Leadership Council Representative for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association and is active in the Fredericktown United Methodist Church.

During the next year, Leah will attend events such as the Annual Golf Tournament and Missouri State Fair. At the end of the program, Leah will receive a $1,000 scholarship payable to a technical school, community college or four-year university.

The Missouri Youth Pork Ambassador program combines a scholarship opportunity with the chance to actively participate in Missouri's pork industry. It provides an opportunity for youth to develop strong relationships with both pork producers and allied industry members, while improving communication and leadership skills.

The Missouri Pork Association represents the state's pork producers in the areas of promotion, research, education, and public policy. For more information about this or any other programs of the Missouri Pork Association, go to www.mopork.com, or call the Missouri Pork Association office at (573) 445-8375.

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