ABOUT AYE

The Celebration of Champions is the culmination of a year of dedication and hard work by AYE Exhibitors. The event showcases the top market animals, as selected by judges throughout the week. Exhibitors of these animals are rewarded with a premium check for their animal, most of which is put towards purchasing future projects or savings for higher education goals. The Sale of Champions is truly a gathering of the “best of the best” and is truly the end-goal for market animal exhibitors. Upon completion of the event, often times preparations for the next year begin the very day exhibitors return home from Arkansas Youth Expo. There is no value that can be placed on the responsibility, work ethic and commitment young people gain from being involved in the Arkansas Youth Expo and working toward this remarkable goal.

The Arkansas Leadership Encounter (ALE) is a program designed to expand the knowledge of the agricultural industry for today’s young adults. Expansion and extension of the educational component of the Arkansas Junior Livestock Program through production agriculture is a major goal of the Arkansas Youth Expo board of directors and staff. The Arkansas Leadership Encounter program will assist class members in increasing and utilizing their knowledge base and skills to explore opportunities for the industry of agriculture, which will benefit not only our local communities — but our state and nation, as well. Through various opportunities, class members will visit a variety of agriculturally-based companies and organizations across the state. Students will be introduced and exposed to the legislative process and how it affects the agricultural industry. Lastly, students will have the opportunity to join the Arkansas Youth Expo, as a valuable staff member during the annual stock show. University of Arkansas is a natural fit for the ALE program, as the University implements and exudes the highest standards possible in terms of education, research, faculty and students.