Cow whisperer

The smell of coffee, Shania Twain on the radio and the milk pump going are the three most prominent things I keep close to my heart from growing up on a dairy farm.
Being involved in the dairy industry has always been a passion. I knew from a young age I wanted to milk cows like my grandparents and parents. Today, I can proudly say I have my own small herd of registered Holsteins.
Growing up, I enjoyed being in the show ring with my dairy heifers. My parents put me on a halter the day I could walk. From there, it grew into more than just a passion but a lifestyle. I enjoyed showing in 4-H, FFA and the Minnesota Junior Holstein Association.
I come from my family’s fifth-generation farm. The farm has had beef cattle, pigs, sheep, horses and of course dairy cattle. I learned what hard work was at a young age from my initial chore of feeding calves.
Even though I had my chores on the farm, I was fortunate to be able to participate in sports and other extracurricular activities. I was in volleyball, dance line, track, National Honor Society and was a senior leader. Some of my proudest accomplishments were breaking a school record in track and advancing from sections to compete at the state dance tournament for multiple years.   
I recently graduated from South Dakota State University with a degree in dairy production. Throughout college, I was heavily involved in organizations and clubs. I enjoyed being active in Dairy Club, Block and Bridle, Little International, intramural sports and a small group Bible study.
Being an active person has helped me stay true to myself and be thankful for the rural upbringing I had. Like many, I value my family and enjoy spending time with them when I can. Whether it’s going to a Wild game, traveling to a cattle show, going to a dance competition or going on vacation, I always seem to follow my roots back home. I have always liked living in the country and being around animals.  
My family often refers to me as the cow whisperer. I, like many farmers, have had my fair share of favorite cows. Early on, I had a calf named Carli who sparked my passion for showing. Elberta was my next favorite; she was a large Holstein who I referred to as a gentle giant. She knew exactly who I was and only ever listened to me. Stella and Time are my current favorites, as both are previous show heifers who became a little too tame to be normal barn animals.
Perhaps these animals are the reason I love being a part of the dairy industry and telling farmers’ stories. In 2020, I was a Princess Kay of the Milky Way finalist, so I am no stranger to sharing the stories of farmers. I enjoy learning about different farms and the family members who came before them.
Dairy Star is a great way for me to be able to fulfill that passion. I am excited to learn about farmers, tell their stories and share the good they are doing. I look forward to continuing to share my passion.