Kayla Walker, 21, of Quincy is a former graduation of Quincy Senior High School as a junior graduate. She was named the Rotary student of the month as well as the Rotary student of the year. She participated in 4-H where she was the high-point champion, FFA, is a 4-time youth-adult bowling league champion and has received numerous gold, platinum and silver dance routine awards. Kayla then went on to attend John Wood Community College where she received her associated of arts degree and was on the cheer team. She then continued on to study at Oklahoma Panhandle State University (OPSU) where she obtained a bachelor's degree in agriculture business with a minor in animal science. She was on the OPSU Dean's Honor Roll and was awarded the OPSU Outstanding Agribusiness Departmental award, the OPSU 2021-2022 Spirit Rider as well as the OPSU Equestrian Team Captain. She also won the title of Miss Panhandle State 2021. Kayla plans to pass the series 3 and series 30 exams to become an independent branch broker for Advance Trading. Kayla is very active as an alumni volunteer for the Adams County 4-H Equine Program as well as an alumni volunteer for the Quincy FFA chapter. She enjoyers showing the NRHA, IHSA and at society breed shows. She also enjoys barrel racing and breakaway roping. Outside of the arena, Kayla enjoys competitive dance and bowling. Kayla will travel across the U.S. promoting Illinois, professional rodeo, agriculture, and the western way of life.  Kayla will go on to compete for the coveted Miss Rodeo America crown this December held in conjunction with the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas, Nev. The Miss Rodeo America pageant is a weeklong pageant where state titleholders compete in the areas of appearance, horsemanship, and personality. This pageant has been offering women the opportunity to create solid foundations for their future endeavors, since 1955. Miss Rodeo America has become a part of a great legacy and part of rodeo history.