Originally from Beeville, Texas, Alyson grew up surrounded by agriculture. Her family runs a cattle operation, and she was heavily involved in both FFA and 4-H throughout her youth. At just eight years old, Alyson began showing pigs, a passion she carried all the way through her senior year.
“I fell in love with showing pigs and knew the livestock industry was something I wanted to be involved in for the rest of my life,” Alyson said.
One of Alyson’s favorite parts of her show career was attending major livestock shows across Texas. Growing up in a small town, she enjoyed the opportunity to meet exhibitors from across the state and experience the excitement of larger events.
“My favorite memories would definitely be going to the majors,” she said. “It was always exciting to see so many people, animals, and exhibitors all in one place.”
Among her accomplishments in the show ring, Alyson is especially proud of exhibiting back-to-back Grand Champion market hogs at her county show.
Today, Alyson serves as a Texas Sales Representative for Sullivan Supply. After graduating from Texas A&M University, she joined the Sullivan Supply team in April and has enjoyed the opportunity to stay involved in the industry she loves.
“Sullivan Supply has such a huge impact on the livestock industry, and I knew it was a company I wanted to be a part of,” she said.
Since joining the team, Alyson’s favorite part of the job has been meeting exhibitors and families from across the country.
“Everyone who comes up to the trailer is always so nice,” she said. “I love hearing their stories, learning about their backgrounds, and getting to know people.”
Having spent years as an exhibitor herself, Alyson understands the importance of helping both experienced show families and those who are just getting started.
“It’s important to help people who are new to the industry and make them feel welcome,” she said. “Hopefully it encourages them to stay involved and continue showing.”
When asked what advice she would give young exhibitors, Alyson kept it simple.
“Stick with it,” she said. “It’s a great industry. Do whatever you can to stay involved and give back to it.”
If you see Alyson this week in Abilene, TX, be sure to say hello!
