Sophia Rife of Salt Rock has spent the past 12 years building strong roots in her community alongside her parents, Heather and Jeremy Rife, and her younger sisters, Aubree and Ellie. At just 14 years old, Sophia is already making a name for herself through leadership, agriculture, and her dedication to Cabell Midland High School’s FFA program and Mountain Movers 4H Club.

A student at Cabell Midland High School, Sophia balances school, livestock showing, competitions, and leadership responsibilities while planning for an exciting future. After high school, she hopes to attend Marshall University and eventually enter a sonography program.

Sophia says one of her favorite memories came during her first year showing a goat at the Cabell County Fair. “Winning grand champion in the market class during my first year showing was something I’ll never forget,” Sophia shared with Stroll Barboursville. “That experience gave me confidence and made me want to work even harder.”

Her interest in FFA began after seeing friends become involved in the organization. She credits mentor and friend Adison Wilmoth for helping introduce her to livestock showing and teaching her the skills needed to succeed. Since then, Sophia has fully embraced the opportunities FFA provides.

“It’s fun because I get to learn about agriculture, compete in contests around the state, and meet new people,” she said. “I also love working in the greenhouse at CMHS during the evenings and on Saturdays.”

Sophia currently serves as one of the vice presidents of the Cabell Midland FFA chapter and has already earned several honors, including the Outstanding Freshman Award, Chapter Star Greenhand Award, and Greenhand Degree. One of her biggest accomplishments came this year when her marketing team won at the state level, earning the opportunity to compete at the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis this October.

“I think being outgoing and willing to work hard has helped me grow in FFA,” Sophia said. “It has also really helped strengthen my public speaking and leadership skills.”

Despite a busy schedule, Sophia remains focused on balancing school and extracurricular activities. She stays organized to maintain good grades while participating in FFA events, the Cabell County Fair, and jackpot livestock shows throughout the year.

Sophia also values the encouragement she receives from those around her, especially her best friend, Kayley Smith. “Kayley has helped me develop leadership qualities and confidence,” she said. “She’s one of the funniest people I know and someone I really look up to.”

With her strong work ethic, growing leadership skills, and passion for agriculture, Sophia Rife is already creating a bright future for herself while making a positive impact on those around her.