Laine Hays, a senior at Monroe City R-I High School, has been selected as one of the 2015 Missouri Pork Association Youth Pork Ambassadors. His selection was announced during the 2015 Missouri Pork Expo on February 10 in Columbia.

Laine is the son of Scott and Riss Hays of Monroe City. He works on the family farm and wears many hats, including farrowing technician, general maintenance, breed technician and mowing/landscaping. He also works for H&H Power Washing and has done general construction with P&E Construction Services.

When in school, Laine is active in the FFA, currently serving as president. He is a member of the National Honor Society, Future Business Leaders of America, Monroe City Track Team and the Monroe City Book Club.

After graduation, Laine will attend the University of Missouri and pursue a degree in agricultural systems management. He plans to work within the pork industry to expand on his skills and experience.

Throughout the next year, Laine will participate in various events in the pork industry. At the end of the program, he will receive a $1,000 scholarship, payable to a technical school, community college or four-year university.

Qualified applicants must be involved in the pork industry or the son/daughter of a parent or guardian involved in the pork industry, and between their senior year of high school and sophomore year of college as of January 1, 2015.

The Missouri Youth Pork Ambassador program combines a scholarship opportunity with the chance to actively participate in Missouri’s pork industry. It provides an opportunity for youth to develop strong relationships with both pork producers and allied industry members, while improving communication and leadership skills.

The Missouri Pork Association represents the state’s pork producers in the areas of promotion, research, education and legislation. For more information about this or any other programs of the Missouri Pork Association, go to www.mopork.com, or call the Missouri Pork Association office at (573) 445-8375.