Nineteen year-old Lauren Jackson, of Dunkirk, Calvert County, has been named Miss Maryland Agriculture 2010. (Submitted photo)
Jackson was awarded with scholarship and cash awards valued up to $13,000. As Miss Maryland Agriculture 2010, she will be present throughout the run of the Maryland State Fair to award prizes and meet with fair-goers, dignitaries, and media representatives. Her responsibilities will continue throughout the year, as she will participate in a number of activities representing Maryland agriculture.
Jackson grew up on Cedar Hill Farm, a crop farm that has been family-owned for nearly six decades. This summer Jackson established a farmer's market in her community to promote local agriculture and to test run a produce co-op. She is involved in volunteer activities at Smithsville United Methodist Church and volunteers at Safe-Nights.
Jackson is currently a sophomore at St. Mary’s College of Maryland in St. Mary's City where she plans to receive a bachelor’s degree in English and history. From there she plans to continue on for a masters degree in education.
Jackson says her ultimate goal is to move back home and help preserve her family farm for future generations.