Gracie Risley, daughter of Gill and Delaina Risley, has lived in Vian her entire life. This small town isn’t just where she grew up, it’s all she’s ever known. For generations, she and her family have called Vian home, but this fall, everything will change.
Risley, 19, recently graduated from Vian High School. Throughout high school, she worked hard, achieved great success, and discovered her passion – agriculture – an inspiration that came from her time spent in FFA (Future Farmers of America).
While in FFA, she was a three-time state champion; once in homesite evaluation and twice in land judging.
“Then we went on to the national level, and my team and I won the national contest in homesite evaluation,” she shared. Her team also brought home wins in numerous interscholastic and invitational CDEs (Career Development Events).
On top of that, Risley’s senior year brought one more exciting achievement. “I was lucky enough to win Grand Champion lamb at the county show,” she said proudly.
Risley shared that she spent five years in FFA, making best friends through all the trips, contests and places she traveled with her advisors, Trent and Charlotte Trotter.
“FFA wasn’t just another club I was in, FFA was my home, my people and my safe place,” she said.
These accomplishments, memories, and her passion for the agriculture industry have helped shape Risley’s path. This fall, she will move seven hours away to attend Oklahoma Panhandle State University (OPSU).
“I plan to double major in Animal Science and Agricultural Business.” Risley said. “And I have already signed to be a member of both the livestock judging team and the livestock show team.”
When asked if she feels sad about moving so far away, Risley admitted, “There are times. I’m mostly sad about leaving my hometown because that’s all I’ve ever known. But, I’m excited to go and meet new people.”
This summer, Risley stayed busy as she prepared for the next chapter of her life by working an internship in agricultural communications. This was an opportunity that allowed her to save money for college, while gaining valuable experience and connections in agriculture.
As her move in date drew closer, Risley was in full preparation mode. She said she shopped for her dorm. She also worked hard to save money for college.
“I wanted to have money saved up for when I headed out to western Oklahoma,” she said.
With a strong work ethic and a love for agriculture, Risley was ready to start the next chapter of her life outside of Vian.
“I might be moving off, but Vian will always be home,” she said.
