Murfreesboro, TN--The Tennessee Cattlemen's Association (TCA) and Tennessee Cattlemen's Youth Association (TCYA) recently selected Grant Funderburk, Mason Collins, Breanna Mills, and Haylee Ferguson as its 2020 Youth Ambassadors.
Funderburk is the 18-year-old son of Jason and Kristy Funderburk of Decatur County. He has been involved in the cattle industry for seven years, as a 4-H and FFA member, showing cattle on the local and state levels, and competing in various Tennessee Cattlemen's Association programs. Funderburk will be attending the University of Tennessee, Martin in the fall to study Animal Science.
Collins is the 16-year-old son of Matt and Meredith Collins of Marshall County. Collins' involvement in the cattle industry started at birth as he is a seventh-generation farmer and fifth generation Hereford cattle breeder. He is an active member of the Tennessee and National Junior Hereford Associations, in which he exhibits his cattle, holds leadership roles, and attends industry events. Collins is a junior at Marshall County High School.
Mills is the 16-year-old daughter of Gary and Brenda Mills of Decatur County. Mills has been a member of the cattle industry for four years. She enjoys raising and showing Shorthorn cattle. Mills is also active in the Tennessee 4-H Program where she currently serves on State 4-H Council as a junior representative. Mills is a junior at Riverside High School.
Ferguson is the 16-year-old daughter of Kevin and Phyllis Ferguson of Rutherford County. Ferguson has been involved in the cattle industry since birth, however, her active involvement began 11 years ago. She enjoys raising Shorthorn cattle with her family and being involved in the Tennessee Junior Shorthorn Association and Rutherford County Livestock Club, among a host of other clubs as well. Ferguson is a junior at Eagleville High School.
Melinda Perkins, Director of Youth Programs and Outreach, is eager to work with the Youth Ambassadors this year. "I am excited to work with the group we have selected as Youth Ambassadors this year. Their time in 4-H and FFA, junior breed associations, and other school activities has undoubtedly equipped them to serve our youth members. I look forward to seeing the new and creative ideas they present."
The purpose of the TCA Youth Ambassadors is to promote the well-being of the cattle industry, to further encourage youth involvement and cooperation in the cattle industry. 2021 TCA Youth Ambassador applications will be available in Fall 2020.
