By Blake Jackson
Bailey Schneider, the 2025 Missouri State Fair Queen, may have royal connections three of her cousins were state fair queens but she was still surprised when she won the crown. “Going into the competition, I wasn’t expecting anything. I just wanted to have fun, meet new girls, and enjoy the state fair.”
The multiday competition required contestants to first win at their county fair before advancing to interviews, speeches or talent presentations, and an evening gown segment. Bailey’s winning speech, inspired by the fair’s theme, “Step on In,” encouraged others to embrace opportunities for advocacy. “I’ve always said that your platform has a purpose,” Bailey said.
“No matter where you are in life, you can use that point to speak about what you’re passionate about. You can be a fair queen, a community service volunteer, or just a student you can use your platform for good.”
Raised on her family’s farm near Warrenton, Mo., Bailey grew up around Angus cattle, row crops, and show pigs. Bailey 4-H experiences ranged from exhibiting livestock to leadership programs like the Public Speaking Institute and Teen Conference. “Those were leadership opportunities that really helped me develop the skills to help me become the woman I am today.”
At Mizzou, Bailey pursued agricultural education with a focus on communications and leadership. “I’m scared of math and science,” Bailey said. “I wanted a degree where I could focus on communication and storytelling.”
Bailey summer internship with the Missouri Soybean Association deepened her interest in agricultural policy and advocacy.
Although Bailey didn’t expect to follow her cousins’ footsteps, Bailey has embraced the role, attending events, touring businesses, and supporting youth programs like the No Limits Pig Show. “It puts your life into perspective and reminds you not to take anything for granted,” she said.
Away from the crown, she enjoys football, NASCAR, hunting, fishing, and hiking. Bailey hopes to inspire others to support agriculture and youth programs. “There are a lot of misconceptions out there, and I want to help people find good information and feel confident about how they feed their families.”
Bailey crown symbolizes achievement and a continued commitment to advocacy and inspiring the next generation.
Phot Credit: missouri-state-fair
Categories: Missouri, General