Jordan Staples of the Stevens County Fair was honored as the District 7 Fair Person of the Year at the Minnesota Federation of County Fairs (MFCF) Convention on January 17. The award recognizes dedication and service to Mn County Fairs which Stevens County is part of District 7, which includes 19 counties in southwest Minnesota. There are eight MFCF districts statewide, making the honor a significant recognition among Minnesota County Fair leadership.
Staples has been a member of the Stevens County Fair Board since 2019 and currently serves on the fair’s Executive Board. Known for his strong work ethic and quiet leadership, Staples was nominated for the award for his unwavering commitment to the fair, his hands-on approach, and his ability to lead under pressure.
Those who work alongside Staples describe him as someone who does whatever it takes to ensure the fair runs smoothly. From helping clean and maintain buildings and grounds to stepping in wherever help is needed before and after events, Staples consistently goes above and beyond — often without being asked and without seeking recognition.
Staples serves on several key committees, including grandstand entertainment, grandstand replacement, long-range planning, and sponsorship. Each year, he takes on the major responsibility of organizing and executing the fair’s grandstand concert. His leadership was especially evident when a scheduled band unexpectedly canceled just ten days before the fair. Staples quickly stepped in, researching and contacting replacement acts, and within days secured a new band, ensuring the event went on without a hitch.
His forward-thinking mindset and steady guidance have played an important role in strengthening the Stevens County Fair and planning for its future. Fellow board members say his positive attitude, reliability, and ability to bring people together have earned him widespread respect.
Outside of the fairgrounds, Staples is also deeply involved in the community, volunteering his time for local projects and supporting community events. He credits much of his ability to give back to the strong support of his family and being part of the fair since he was young along with his wife Courtney and their two children, Aurora and Callahan — who share in his commitment to community involvement.
Staples is pictured receiving the honor with Kelly Howe of the Stevens County Fair Board, who completed and submitted the nomination application. While Staples does not seek recognition, his dedication and service have left a lasting impact on the Stevens County Fair and the wider fair community across southwest Minnesota.
