Before the first bell rings at Clinton High School, Emma Ray may already have a full day’s work behind her. Whether she is caring for livestock, preparing for a competition or putting in extra repetitions for softball and golf, the Clinton junior has built her success around effort, consistency and a desire to keep improving.
Ray is active in several areas of the school’s FFA program. She shows pigs and chickens, competes in trap shooting and is a member of the livestock judging team. Her path into FFA began through 4-H, where she developed an interest in showing animals.
“I got really into showing chickens and pigs that I knew FFA would be a great decision going forward,” Ray said.
That decision has given her opportunities to compete, learn and make memories. Her favorite so far came at the Elk City jackpot show, where she placed third in showmanship.
Ray said the support of her family has made a major difference in her involvement. Her parents are consistently there to help with the behind-the-scenes responsibilities that come with raising and showing animals, from mixing feed and picking up supplements to caring for everything when the family is away or returning home late.
Her parents are also among the people who have shaped her most. Ray admires her mother’s giving and independent nature, while her father’s work ethic and ability to provide advice have been equally meaningful. She also carries the support of her grandmother with her.
“My grandma was also one of my biggest influences because she was so supportive with all of my different events,” Ray said. “It didn’t matter where it was, she was there, even if she was 15 minutes late.”
Away from FFA, Ray competes in softball and golf. On the softball field, she is motivated by the opportunity to become a dependable leader for her teammates. She understands that success does not happen only during scheduled practices.
“It has taken a lot of hard work outside of practice, tons of reps, and having the determination to be better than my competitors,” she said.
That competitive drive also follows her into the show ring, where one of her biggest motivations is trying to beat her sister in showing chickens.
Ray also credits former seventh-grade science teacher Mrs. Estes for leaving a lasting impression. The teacher’s confidence and determination are qualities Ray hopes to emulate.
Whether she is representing Clinton in FFA, athletics or the community, Ray wants to set the right example through sportsmanship, effort and pride. Her goal is simple: be someone others can be proud to support and look up to.
