JAYLENE LUVIANO
THE RECORDER
recorder@portervillerecorder.com
(Editor’s Note: The Porterville Recorder is featuring the Lindsay Orange Blossom Queen’s Court in today’s edition with attendants also featured on page 2A. The Lindsay Orange Blossom Festival will be held on Saturday, April 18 with the parade to be held at 10 a.m.)
My name is Jaylene Luviano, the youngest of four children born to Ninfa Luviano and Antonio Cruz. My father was born in Michoacán, Mexico, and immigrated to the United States at the age of 25. My mother was born in Yakima, Wash., but was raised in a small pueblo in Michoacán known as El Camalote. Both of my parents immigrated in search of a better life. After being together for 16 years, my parents moved back to Lindsay in 2010, where they planted permanent roots and built the life we share today.
My mother was raised by my great-grandmother, whom I lovingly knew as Mama Chuy. She instilled in my mother the values of independence, resilience, and hard work, qualities that have been passed down to me. Witnessing my parents’ sacrifices and perseverance has shaped my ambition and strengthened my desire to succeed not only for myself but for my family.
Throughout high school, I have been actively involved in FFA for all four years. My Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) projects included raising market goats and a market hog, along with competing in welding competitions whenever possible. Although I did not hold a formal leadership title, I proudly represented the Agricultural Mechanics pathway as a young woman in a traditionally male-dominated field. I have worked to be a source of encouragement for other young women, proving that we are equally capable of thriving in agriculture and skilled trades.
Service has been a meaningful part of my journey. Through FFA, I have volunteered at annual toy drives in partnership with the Lindsay Police Department, helped clean and restore the Springville Rodeo grounds, and taught preschool students about agriculture at the Lindsay High School farm. These experiences have shown me the power of community involvement and mentorship.
Academically, I have maintained Honor Roll status all four years and began taking dual enrollment courses during my junior year. I have earned my State FFA Degree, the Workhorse Award, and other honors that reflect my dedication and strong work ethic.
After graduation, I want to attend a four-year university to pursue a degree in nursing to become a pediatric nurse. I aspire to one day work at a Children’s Hospital, where I can provide compassionate care to children and families. Although my goals are ambitious, I am determined to achieve them. With the unwavering support of my family, friends, and teachers, I am honored to represent Lindsay and set an example for future generations.