Roland Wardlaw didn’t plan on finding his passion in agriculture. In fact, his journey into Ag began by accident.
Now a rising senior at McDonald County High School, Wardlaw has turned that unexpected start into one of the most defining parts of his high school career.
“My freshman year, I actually didn’t sign up for Ag,” Wardlaw said. “I was put in there as a backup elective. Once I saw the opportunity that Ag and FFA are, I dove in wholeheartedly.”
That decision quickly paid off. Wardlaw is now a two-time FFA officer and has competed at the state level in both forestry and soils Career Development Events. Though he’s come close to breaking through to the next level, finishing just one spot shy of major milestones, he’s using that near-miss motivation to fuel his senior year.
“Nobody wants it more than someone who it’s been taken away from,” he said. “My highlight moment hasn’t happened yet, but I’m working to make it happen this year.”
Beyond competition, Wardlaw values the experiences that come with FFA just as much as the results. From early mornings during contest season to attending the National Convention and annual chapter trips, the program has become a cornerstone of his high school life.
“Ag class is always a highlight of my day,” he said.
Wardlaw credits much of his growth to his support system, especially his first ag teacher, Mrs. Hutton.
“She’s one of the main reasons I got involved,” he said. “She’s always there to push me forward, but also to help me learn when I fall short.”
Outside of FFA, Wardlaw stays active in soccer, archery, and speech and debate, while previously competing in wrestling before an injury sidelined him this year. No matter the activity, he carries the same mindset.
“There is no ‘I’ in team,” he said. “Surrounding yourself with good people makes everything better.”
Whether in the classroom, on the field, or representing his school in competition, Wardlaw embraces the responsibility.
“It’s an honor,” he said. “I always try to show what it means to be a good person.”
