What is your background?: I’m Hailey Harbison, and I’m from Brighton, Iowa, in the Southeast part of the state. I’m the daughter to Jeremy and Julie Harbison, and sister to Wyatt Harbison. My passion lies deeply in the agriculture industry, where you can find me working alongside my family in our fencing business, Harbison Fencing, as well as managing our angus cow/calf operation. I also graduated from Waco High School in 2023, where I was deeply involved in all things of the FFA program and Washington County Cattlemen’s Association.
What brought you to Kirkwood and why?: The robust and deeply passionate agriculture program at Kirkwood is what drew me to this college. During my visit, I was impressed by the warm welcome from the instructors, the hands-on approach to all learning vs. handbook techniques, and the friendliness of the entire ag department. I have established countless connections with my teachers and advisors, and I know all of these connections will help impact my future, so that’s what brought me to Kirkwood.
What is your program of study and what interests you about it?: Agricultural Science and minor in Beef Production. I found interest in the agriculture program at Kirkwood because it is so hands-on and the endless learning experiences you can have on a daily basis. I have been deeply involved in the agricultural industry my whole life, and to say the least, I’ve had a great experience in my study of choice here at Kirkwood Community College.
Are you involved in anything else on campus? If so, what and why?: I’m involved in the Hoof and Horns club, which is a beef production club. Additionally, I wasn’t a part of any other clubs, but I always tried to get involved in events and programs that were available through Kirkwood. The best thing I have learned within the agriculture industry is making those connections, so now I love being able to talk to individuals about the agriculture industry, especially the beef industry, and this was a great opportunity to make those connections and expand my horizon. Every club counts, so I highly encourage people to get involved.
Are you involved in anything off of campus?: I’m involved in the board committee of the Eastern Iowa Young Professionals in Agriculture group, so I spend a lot of time being involved with that, as well as running my own photography business on the side. During my college experience, I have been very busy inside and outside of school and I highly encourage others to do the same. Find what means the most to you!
What do you do for fun?: “What do you do for fun?” is my favorite question anyone could ask me. I always tell people “work.” I often find myself working 7 days a week, whether it’s for my photography business, working on our cattle operation, or helping others within their company, I would say I work for my fun time. If I’m not working, I love spending time outdoors on the farm, being with friends, or listening to agriculture podcasts.
Where do you see yourself in five years?: In five years, I envision myself as the owner of a thriving business specializing in ultrasounding livestock, particularly cattle, while also expanding my client base in artificial insemination. Additionally, I plan to continue my passion for photography. And ideally, I would love to remain in southeast Iowa, but I’m open to wherever the journey leads within the agricultural industry.