By Brandie Gay
Devyn Keller, an alumnus of Van-Far High School, is making waves this summer as a marketing intern at the Missouri State Fair.
Devyn, who is currently a senior at the University of Missouri-Columbia, majoring in agricultural education with an emphasis in communications and leadership, is no stranger to hard work and dedication. For the second consecutive summer, Devyn is part of the team that brings the Missouri State Fair to life. Her role as a marketing intern involves organizing the opening day parade and ceremonies, managing media relations, and running the fair’s Instagram and TikTok accounts.
“When I tell people I work for the Missouri State Fair, they’re often surprised to learn about the extensive planning and full-time staff required to make the event happen,” Devyn said.
Her journey began at Van-Far High School, where she developed a passion for agriculture and leadership. She was an active member of her FFA chapter, serving in various leadership roles, 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.
Growing up, Devyn attended the Missouri State Fair every year to spend time with her family, who live near Sedalia.
“It became a tradition to come ride carnival rides and eat turkey legs with my cousins,” Devyn said.
In 2017, Devyn’s cousin, Cierra Monsees, became a public relations specialist in the Marketing Department. From that point forward she added visiting Cierra in her office to her list of Fair traditions.
As Devyn got older, she learned more about what her cousin did at the Missouri State Fair. When she was a freshman in college, Devyn said she decided to take a shot in the dark and apply for an internship position in the Marketing Department.
After going through the application process and an interview, she was offered the position. Devyn acepted the offer.
That first summer was great, with the best opportunities and experiences. Because of that, Devyn decided to return this summer. Through her internship, Devyn is not only gaining valuable real-world experience but also contributing significantly to the event’s success.
Her responsibilities are diverse, ranging from coordinating with media outlets to ensuring the fair’s social media presence is engaging and informative. She completed a variety of graphic design projects and news releases, as well as assisting with the overseeing of more than 100 corporate sponsors.
This hands-on experience is helping her build a strong foundation for her future career in agricultural communications and leadership.
At the University of Missouri’s College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources, students are immersed in a dynamic environment where they cultivate a healthier world through innovative research, community service, and leadership development.
Devyn Keller, exemplifies this spirit and dedication.
Devyn said she’s always been passionate about animals and their well-being. Her journey at CAFNR has been marked by numerous achievements and experiences that have shaped her into a thoughtful leader.
Devyn’s academic journey has been equally impressive. She has been involved in several research projects, focusing on animal nutrition and welfare. Her dedication 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 sciences.
Beyond academics 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 earning her a certificate in floral artistry and management. Her commitment to community service is evident through her participation in outreach programs that educate the public about sustainable agriculture and animal care.
Devyn also works at Tiger Garden, the student led floral shop on campus. She is also a teaching assistant for the floral design courses that are offered, as well as in the shop as a student leader.
Devyn’s story is a testament to the opportunities that arise from dedication and passion. Her work at the Missouri State Fair is a good example of how local talent from Vandalia could make a significant impact on a larger stage. As the fair continues to draw visitors from across the state, Devyn’s contributions ensure that 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 to see the behind-the-scenes efforts that make the fair 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 prepares to graduate, she reflected on her time at CAFNR with gratitude. The skills and knowledge she has gained, combined with her passion for animal sciences, have prepared her for a promising career.
Whether she pursues further studies or enters the workforce, Devyn said she is confident that her experiences at CAFNR have equipped her to make a positive impact on the world.
Devyn Keller’s story is just one example of the many ways CAFNR students at Mizzou are making a difference.