02/10/2026
Board Member Introduction — President & Marketer: Ella Smith
If you’ve ever wondered who’s behind the posts, sponsor outreach, promotions, and many of the ideas that brought Star-Spangled Banner to life — it’s been Ella. But she couldn’t do it without the incredible team standing beside her. From the very beginning, Ella has worked behind the scenes alongside the board to build connections, secure sponsors, communicate with exhibitors and the public, and help shape the vision of the Star-Spangled Banner Livestock Expo.
For the past few years, Ella Smith has served as President of the Star-Spangled Banner Livestock Expo since day one, while also leading the marketing and communications that helped bring the show to life and grow it into what it is today.
Ella’s journey in agriculture didn’t begin all at once. She was first introduced to livestock around five years old, starting with horses alongside her grandpa. At 12 years old, she attended a livestock auction, where she purchased her first lamb — a moment that sparked a passion that would grow into years of showing lambs and working with a variety of livestock. Those experiences helped shape who Ella is today and ultimately inspired her to help create the Star-Spangled Banner Livestock Expo, built to support youth, families, and the next generation in agriculture.
Ella is currently attending South Dakota State University, studying Marketing and Communications with minors in Agribusiness, Animal Science, and Sales. She recently launched her own business, Flashy Captury, where she helps businesses grow through marketing, videography, photography, communications, and event planning. Her focus isn’t on personal success — it’s about building others up and helping businesses reach their full potential.
A self-described “girl on the run,” Ella believes in taking risks, thinking big, and never being afraid to try something new. If one path doesn’t work, she believes there’s always another way — and that growth comes from seeing the bigger picture.
Ella is a 2024 graduate of Windom Area High School, was crowned Miss Teen Rodeo Minnesota 2025, and comes from a big family that fuels her drive and motivation. She finds inspiration in young people and is passionate about keeping Star-Spangled Banner family- and kid-friendly, while creating opportunities for the next generation to grow.
Ella is excited to see Star-Spangled Banner continue to grow into something incredible — and we couldn’t be more thankful for the dedication, creativity, and leadership she brings to the show.
Please join us in giving a huge thank you to our President and Marketer, Ella Smith
More board member introductions coming soon...!
