NCTA Alumna carried agriculture forward as Cedar County rodeo queen 

For Jozlyn Anderson, agriculture was more than a career path; it was a family legacy and a lifelong passion shaped by hands-on learning, strong mentorship, and community connection at the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture. 

A 2024 graduate of NCTA’s Animal Science program, Jozlyn’s journey to Curtis began generations earlier. Her grandmother graduated from NCTA in 1979 with a Veterinary Technology degree, inspiring Jozlyn to follow in her footsteps and continue the family’s agricultural tradition. 

During her time at NCTA, Jozlyn credited instructors Joanna Hergenreder and Doug Smith with helping turn her goals into reality. From competing across the country on the Livestock Judging Team to gaining hands-on experience through colt starting and intermediate horse training courses, she immersed herself in opportunities that built both skill and confidence. Those experiences, paired with lasting mentor relationships, continued to support her beyond graduation. 

“NCTA gave me knowledge I still use every day,” Jozlyn shared. “I can call my NCTA instructors with questions even now, and they’re always there.” 

After NCTA, Jozlyn attended Kansas State University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Animal Science before returning to her family farm. There, she applied her knowledge to improve the operation and contribute to the broader agricultural community. She also works as a crop insurance agent, balancing professional responsibilities with farm life, continued education, and the demands of her travel schedule as Miss Cedar County Rodeo Queen 2025. 

As rodeo queen, Jozlyn served as an ambassador for Nebraska agriculture, traveling across the state to promote rodeo, advocate for the industry, and serve as a positive role model. She said the most meaningful part of the role was the impact she had on young children. 

“Seeing kids’ eyes light up and hearing them say they want to be just like me one day makes everything worth it,” she said. “Knowing I’ve made an impact, no matter how small, means the world to me.” 

Her leadership skills were sharpened at NCTA, particularly through livestock judging, where giving oral reasons strengthened her public speaking and advocacy abilities. Those same skills supported her rodeo appearances, interviews, and community outreach. 

Jozlyn’s rodeo queen journey was also deeply personal. Winning her first queen title fulfilled a dream years in the making and honored a family member who had aspired to compete in rodeo queen contests but passed away before achieving that goal. 

“I wanted to accomplish this for her,” Jozlyn said. “This title means everything to my family.” 

Throughout her reign, Jozlyn competed and appeared alongside two special horses, Vegas and Rusty, both of which played key roles in her horsemanship journey. One was started during NCTA’s colt starting program, while the other became part of her story through the generosity of a fellow horseman. 

Looking ahead, Jozlyn encouraged current NCTA students, especially young women, to step outside their comfort zones, work hard, and take advantage of hands-on opportunities. 

“Put yourself out there,” she said. “Don’t be afraid to get dirty, work hard, and show people how much you want it. That effort opens doors.” As her time as Cedar County rodeo queen will come to an end, Jozlyn said she was excited to see who would carry the title next and encouraged more young women to step forward and apply. The experience was truly a dream come true. 

As an alumna, agricultural advocate, and Rodeo Queen, Jozlyn embodied the values NCTA strives to instill leadership, work ethic, and a commitment to serving both industry and community. 

-NCTA