By Brandie Gay

Devyn Keller, a former Van-Far High School student, is making a splash this summer as a marketing intern at the Missouri State Fair.

Devyn, currently a senior at the University of Missouri-Columbia studying agricultural science with a concentration in communications and leadership, is no stranger to hard work and dedication. For the second summer in a row, Devyn is part of the team that brings the Missouri State Fair to life. Her role as a marketing intern includes organizing the opening day parade and ceremonies, managing media relations, and managing the fair’s Instagram and TikTok accounts.

“When I tell people I work for the Missouri State Fair, they are often surprised at how much planning goes into it and how many full-time staff are needed to make the event possible,” Devyn said.

Her career began at Van-Far High School, where she developed a passion for agriculture and leadership. She was an active member of her FFA chapter and held various leadership positions, including chapter president. Her dedication and hard work earned her the Audrain County Cattlemen’s Scholarship, which recognized her achievements and potential in the field of agriculture.

As a child, Devyn attended the Missouri State Fair every year to spend time with her family who lived near Sedalia.

“It became a tradition to ride the carousel with my cousins ​​and eat turkey legs,” Devyn said.

In 2017, Devyn’s cousin Cierra Monsees became a PR specialist in the marketing department. From that point on, visiting Cierra in her office became part of her list of trade show traditions.

As Devyn grew older, she learned more about her cousin’s work at the Missouri State Fair. When she was a freshman in college, she decided to try her luck and apply for an internship in the marketing department.

After going through the application process and an interview, she was offered the position. Devyn accepted the offer.

The first summer was great, with the best opportunities and experiences. That’s why Devyn decided to return this summer. Through her internship, Devyn will not only gain valuable real-world experience, but will also contribute significantly to the success of the event.

Her responsibilities are varied, ranging from coordinating with media to ensuring the show’s social media presence is engaging and informative. She has completed a number of graphic design projects and press releases and helped manage over 100 corporate sponsors.

This hands-on experience helps her build a solid foundation for her future career in agricultural communications and leadership.

At the University of Missouri’s College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources, students immerse themselves in a dynamic environment where they create a healthier world through innovative research, community service, and leadership development.

Devyn Keller embodies this spirit and dedication.

Devyn said she has always been passionate about animals and their welfare, and her path at CAFNR has been marked by numerous successes and experiences that have shaped her into a thoughtful leader.

Devyn’s academic record was equally impressive. She was involved in several research projects focused on animal nutrition and welfare. Her commitment to research earned her a spot in the Honors College Cherng Summer Scholars Program, where she worked on groundbreaking studies that could impact the future of plant science.

Outside of her academic career and research, Devyn is an active member of the CAFNR community. She has taken on leadership roles in various student organizations, including the Mizzou Student Chapter of the American Institute of Floral Designers, where she helped organize events and workshops and earned a certificate in floral art and management. Her commitment to the community is evident in her participation in outreach programs that educate the public about sustainable agriculture and animal care.

Devyn also works at the Tiger Garden, the student-run flower shop on campus. She is also a teaching assistant for the floral design classes offered and serves as the student manager at the shop.

Devyn’s story is a testament to the opportunities that come with dedication and passion. Her work at the Missouri State Fair is a great example of how local Vandalia talent can make a big impact on a larger stage. As the fair continues to attract visitors from across the state, Devyn’s contributions ensure the event runs smoothly and remains a highlight of the summer.

For Devyn, the internship is more than just a job; it’s a chance to thrive in the “fun chaos” of coordinating a major event and see the behind-the-scenes efforts that make the show a success.

Her journey from Van-Far to the Missouri State Fair is an inspiring story of local achievement and the pursuit of excellence. As Devyn prepared to graduate, she looked back on her time at CAFNR with gratitude. The skills and knowledge she gained, combined with her passion for animal science, have prepared her for a promising career.

Whether she continues her studies or enters the workforce, Devyn said she is confident that her experiences at CAFNR have empowered her to make a positive impact on the world.

Devyn Keller’s story is just one example of the many ways CAFNR students are making a difference at Mizzou.