A Barn and Three Silos

In a world of constant hustle and bustle, it’s important to take the time to soak in your surroundings. I often stand in the footprints of my ancestors to acknowledge the land they tended to and pieces they’ve left. What still stands on the acreage my family cleared is a barn and three silos—a view I will never get tired of.

My family provides a long-lived legacy in Wisconsin agriculture which has sparked a passion in me. Deeply rooted in agriculture, I have spent my youth and early career immersing myself in Wisconsin’s diverse agriculture industry only to find that the view of my family’s homestead embodies everything I hold dear.

As I admire the beauty in our 167 year-old, weathered barn, I reflect what it represents in me. Growing up as the seventh generation on my family’s farm serves as the backbone in my agriculture pursuits, leading me to endless opportunities. This barn is my foundation.

Each silo represents a pillar that fuels my passion for agriculture—

1. Agriculture Organizations: As a young agriculturist, being involved in 4-H, FFA and Jr. Holstein Association allowed me to network with fellow youth. My involvement in Dairy Club, Collegiate Farm Bureau and Alpha Zeta throughout college helped me to develop professionalism while creating industry relationships.

2. Education: Beyond my high school agriculture education, earning a dairy science degree from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls offered me experiences like none other. These include being a member of the National Dairy Challenge Team and Intercollegiate Dairy Judging Team.

3. Community: I credit my community for providing support in a safe environment that has encouraged me in my endeavors. I am proud to give back my community by telling the story of Wisconsin producers and processors.

My foundation and three pillars have provided me with support that has led me to be a top candidate for the 73rd Alice in Dairyland. I look forward to the opportunity to share the importance of buying Wisconsin products that will help strengthen our communities and contribute to Wisconsin farm families like mine.

As Wisconsinites, it is our job to tell the story of our diverse and robust agriculture industry and promote its products. I encourage you to engage in your agriculture surroundings and acknowledge the importance it has on your life as I did with a barn and three silos.