By Andi Anderson
The Ohio State Fair has announced the members of its 2026 Junior Fair Board, recognizing a group of dedicated young leaders who will play an important role in supporting fair activities and representing youth from across the state.
The Junior Fair Board is made up of Ohioans between the ages of 16 and 20 who are selected for their leadership abilities, commitment to service, and involvement in youth and career-technical organizations. Members work throughout the Ohio State Fair to help ensure successful events while gaining valuable experience in leadership, communication, and public service.
The program provides participants with opportunities to interact with visitors, assist at livestock shows, support educational activities, and contribute to daily fair operations. Members also attend special events, participate in meetings, and work alongside fair staff in different departments. These experiences help develop professional skills while encouraging personal growth and community involvement.
Adam Heffron, Ohio State Fair Executive Director, praised the dedication of the board members and their contributions to the fair. He said, "The Junior Fair Board represents everything the Ohio State Fair stands for — hard work, leadership, and a genuine love for our great state, community and agriculture. These young people put in countless hours behind the scenes, from greeting visitors to helping run activities, all while carrying forward traditions that have shaped our state's fair for generations. Their energy and dedication remind us why the Ohio State Fair remains a place where the next generation of leaders gets its start. We're incredibly proud of what they do, and grateful for their service."
The 2026 Junior Fair Board includes both first-year and second-year members from counties across Ohio. The leadership team for the second-year members includes Samantha Bader of Fairfield County as President, Landon Frank of Mahoning County as Vice President, Alexis West of Highland County as Secretary, and Mallory Thomason of Clinton County as Public Relations Officer.
Many board members have long histories with the Ohio State Fair through livestock projects, youth programs, camps, and agricultural activities. These experiences have helped build strong leadership skills and a passion for serving their communities. By taking on this new responsibility, they continue a tradition of youth involvement that supports the success of one of the nation’s largest state fairs.
The Ohio State Fair, hosted at the Ohio Expo Center, is known for its educational exhibits, entertainment, agricultural programs, and one of the largest junior livestock shows in the country. The 2026 Ohio State Fair is scheduled to take place from July 29 through Aug. 9.
Through their service, leadership, and commitment to agriculture and education, the 2026 Junior Fair Board members will help create a positive experience for fair visitors while building skills that will benefit them and their communities in the years ahead.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-sisoje
Categories: Ohio, Rural Lifestyle