With a grandfather who worked as a state FFA advisor, Jennifer Cook was no stranger to the world of FFA. Her involvement began in Lake City, Arkansas where she attended Riverside High School. After competing in parliamentary procedure and prepared public speaking competitions, horticulture judging, and showing pigs, Cook had made a name for herself among the Arkansas FFA members.

     In 1987, Cook was elected as the State FFA President. This was a monumental year for Cook and Arkansas FFA. She was the first female to be elected into this position.

      After graduating from the University of Arkansas with a degree in Agricultural Education in 1992, Cook took multiple career paths within the agricultural world. She worked as an agricultural teacher and managed contract hog farms for Cargill Pork. She and her husband have a small cow/calf operation of Hereford cattle in Greenbriar, Arkansas. Over the years, Cook continued to be involved with FFA as a judge, convention speaker and attendee. She said she “never really went away from being somewhat connected.”

      Early in 2019, Cook was asked if she had interest in a position in development for the Arkansas FFA Foundation. Although not an expert in development work, Cook knew she had the personal FFA experience that she could share with potential donors.

     “If you want someone who can talk about how FFA can change kids' lives and prepare them for career success, I’m your gal,” said Cook.

     Cook officially took on the position of Arkansas FFA Foundation Director in June of 2019. In the last few months, Cook has evaluated the monetary situation, set goals, and started working toward how she can impact Arkansas FFA.

     “I feel really passionate about giving these companies and investors what they want. They want access to FFA members because these are kids who know how to set goals (and) understand work ethic. They can follow directions, and that is a leadership skill.”

      “Basically, anyone that likes to eat,” is impacted by agriculture, making them potential supporters of Arkansas FFA. Cook said she is “indebted” to the Arkansas FFA Association.