Sticking to her roots, Morgan’s favorite show is the Guadalupe County Youth Show. Although she is driven by her competiveness and will to succeed, she explains what she values most about this show is the support the exhibitors give one another. “It’s still a competition, but I love that you can pass on a meaningful ‘good luck’ or receive a reassuring ‘good job’ from the showman penned next you,” says Morgan.“Everyone knows one another there; we’re like a family.” Morgan’s definition of success doesn’t always entail coming in first place. She loves all aspects of the show world and treasures the opportunity her family has given her by getting her involved in this industry. Although it requires hard work on a daily basis, it is those special moments on show day that keep her going and gives her assurance that her work is paying off. “A simple ‘you did great’ or ‘he looked awesome’ from the people I look up to is all it takes for me to continue to work harder and chase the next banner,” Morgan states. Her success also reaches far beyond the show ring. Aside from being a member of the National Honor Society and ranking as one of the top five students in her senior class, Morgan recently obtained a notable achievement in her livestock judging career. Her and her teammates won the 2015 State Roundup Livestock Judging Contest in College Station, TX. “The overwhelming amount of stress and countless hours of practice were worth it when we heard our names announced on stage and saw Mr. Real grinning from from ear-to-ear with pride,” said Morgan as she reflected on her most memorable experience. 52
From the day she began showing, Morgan has had her sights set on receiving a scholarship from the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo. With one shot left, she will be working twice as hard this year to achieve that goal. Morgan plans to attend Texas Tech University next fall and hopes to pursue a career in physical therapy. As she wraps up her senior year and enters the show ring one last time, she doesn’t plan on straying too far from the pig barn. Morgan says she dreams of one day owning a large show pig operation, and she plans on continuing to build off of her grandfather’s herd in order to one day reach that goal. “The best advice I have ever been given is to never give up on something that once made you happy,” says Morgan. “Needless to say, I am very passionate about showing livestock and my involvement within in this industry is not nearing an end.”
Texas Pork Producers Association wishes you the best of luck on your future endeavors!