Queen Creek High senior excels in agricultural pursuits

At Queen Creek High School, the Future Farmers of America program gives students hands-on opportunities, meaningful leadership roles and a sense of belonging.

For senior Natalie Jones, FFA has become the place where her interests and her future come together, according to a press release from the Queen Creek Unified School District.

Originally from the Pacific Northwest, Jones grew up surrounded by open land, goats, chickens and even experienced bull riding.

“When we moved to Arizona, we lived in a neighborhood without land, so joining FFA helped me reconnect with that part of my life,” Jones stated in the release.

Attending her first FFA event as a freshman, she remembers seeing the familiar animals and feeling like she was home again. That sense of belonging has been strengthened by caring mentors.

Jones has now shown pigs for three years, something she never expected to do. One unforgettable lesson came when her pig became sick right before an agricultural fair.

“It was stressful, but so many people stepped in to help. That’s what I love about agriculture. It’s about the people and the support, not just competition,” she stated.

As FFA president, Jones leads with collaboration and calm.

“Being president isn’t about making all the decisions. It’s about helping your team work together and succeed,” Jones stated.

She is especially proud to be setting an example for younger students, including her sister, who serves as president of a FAA chapter called Greenhand.

Looking ahead, Jones plans to study animal science and agricultural business beginning at Central Arizona College before transferring to the University of Arizona.

“FFA has really shown me what’s possible after high school,” she stated.