Ava Kathryn Moore, MS Scholarship Recipient, Plans to Become a Veterinarian

Jan 22, 2025

By Cindy Baugher

When Ava Kathryn Moore, recipient of a Mississippi Division scholarship through the Police Benevolent Foundation, recently left her family to begin her college experience, she left them with what amounts to a mini farm: a milk cow, goats, a pig, chickens, rabbits, cats, dogs, and goldfish. She laughed, “They only kept them because they know if I don’t come home to see family, I’ll for sure come back to see my critters.” Given that she managed such a menagerie at home, it’s no wonder that Ava Kathryn is planning on a career as a veterinarian. Her plans are to transfer to Mississippi State University for a degree in biological engineering, and then apply to the veterinary program at Mississippi State.

Moore with one of her many beloved pets and animals

Ava Kathryn has started on her college path by attending Itawamba Community College, which she chose since it is 45 minutes from home. It seemed like a good way to ease into independence following high school, and it just made the most sense for her financially. On top of being a full-time student at Itawamba, she’s shadowing in a local vet clinic as well. “I have had a great love for animals for most of my life,” she said, “and becoming a vet would be a dream come true for me.” Working in the local vet clinic is helping her to gain valuable field experience.

The small town of Pontotoc, Mississippi is where Ava Kathryn grew up. It’s where she said, “everyone knows their neighbors…and their neighbors’ dogs as well. Pontotoc is nestled in between Tupelo and Oxford, so we often describe it as being located, ‘right in between Elvis and Ole Miss.’ My dad’s family’s roots run deep here, with his great-grandmother having 20 children! Therefore, it’s safe to say that I grew up surrounded by a large family.”

Chad Moore is Ava Kathryn’s father. It’s his PBA membership that qualified her to be able to apply for the scholarship. He has been in law enforcement for a total of 27 years and retired from the Mississippi Highway Patrol in June after serving for 25-years. Ava Kathryn said, “More than a few tears were shed on his retirement day. I’d never known my dad without that uniform, and I don’t remember when there wasn’t a MHP patrol vehicle in our garage. I have always associated his uniform and car with safety, so the idea of not seeing it every day was tough. He recently started a new job as an Agriculture Theft Investigator with the Mississippi State Department of Agriculture. Everyone knew he couldn’t walk away from law enforcement altogether. Law enforcement runs deep in my family, as my dad’s grandfather was Sherrif in Pontotoc County for several years.”

Ava Kathryn and her family at her father’s MS State Trooper graduation

Moore said that the PBA has “been there for me whenever I have needed it, and I am thankful for it.” He was initially led to law enforcement due to his grandfather’s example as sheriff, as well as that of a couple of state troopers who attended church where he grew up. “I always knew it was what I was meant to do,” he stated. As for PBA membership, he said he would “100% --yes” recommend it to a friend or colleague.

In addition to her father’s influence on her life, Ava Kathryn has nothing but gratitude for her mother and sister. “My parents have been married for almost 24 years. My mom, Kristi, has been a hairstylist and salon owner for 26 years. I don’t know what I would do without her love, guidance, and support. While my dad was out working to protect and serve, she was at home; being the caregiver and the glue that held us all together.  I have one sister, Mollie, who is 22. She is newly married and is an ER nurse. Mollie has been the greatest influence and role model in my life. She has been there for me, guided me, poured into me, and I am so thankful for the example that she is. Her love for the Lord shines bright, and I know she will never steer me wrong.”

It is easy to see why Ava Kathryn was selected as a Mississippi scholarship recipient. Graduating from Pontotoc High School in May of 2024, her high school resume is impressive, to say the least. Of her academic and school-based achievements, she recalled, “I was involved with the dance team, band, color guard, Mu Alpha Theta, Beta Club, and was an FCA leader and FCA praise team member. I received several awards upon graduation, including Salutatorian, Outstanding Citizenship Award, Award for Highest Average in Higher Level Sciences for over 4 years, as well as many other awards for the highest average in multiple subjects. I was also a Mississippi Scholar and a member of the National Honor Society, and I graduated with Special Honors.” 

Ava Kathryn Moore was recognized as Salutatorian at her high school graduation

Ava Kathryn’s involvement and service extended into her community and church as well. She said, “I volunteered to serve in the food truck ministry, volunteered in nursing homes, and was on the youth praise team at Green Valley Baptist Church. I maintained a part-time job throughout high school as well.  I recently got to go on a mission trip to New York City; from passing out sandwiches to the homeless, to simply bringing joy and Jesus to people in need, it was a humbling experience. I am a small-town girl and wasn’t excited about going at first, going so far as to jokingly say that New York was my Ninevah, but I am so thankful that I went. What a blessing it was!”

When asked, she named Jesus Christ as her favorite leader and went on to say, “Without Him I am nothing.  His teachings and examples guide me in every aspect of my life. He teaches me to be the salt of the earth, adding value and preserving goodness wherever I go.”

Among her many volunteer roles, Moore logged hours helping with the Daddy Daughter Dance Fundraiser

Both Moore and his daughter are appreciative of the scholarship that Ava Kathryn earned. Moore stated, “I am proud of her, and I know she is capable of achieving her goals.” Ava Kathryn added, “I am incredibly thankful to have received this scholarship. The generous support not only eases the financial burden of my education but also motivates me to strive for excellence in my studies. It is an honor to be recognized by such a respected organization. I am deeply grateful for the belief this foundation has shown in my potential.”