Brief Bio: Faith, family and farming has been the basis of my family’s heritage for generations. At a young age, I became interested in the daily operation of my family’s dairy farm in Northeast Iowa. As I got older, I asked for more responsibilities and asked numerous questions to broaden my knowledge. Throughout my development, I realized that this industry is not only my past, but it is my future. Currently, I am a junior at Iowa State University working to triple major in Dairy Science, Agriculture Communications and International Agriculture. After my college graduation in May of 2022, I anticipate working for a regional or national dairy checkoff organization where I gauge consumer interest, loyalty and trust in dairy products and farming practices. Ultimately, I would like to return as the fourth generation on my family’s dairy farm to start an on-farm creamery and agrotourism business to educate consumers first-hand where their food comes from. During my time in the Dairy Science Club at Iowa State, I have been able to assist in the planning of the Midwest Regional ADSA-SAD Conference in marketing and promotion, serve on the officer team, work alongside alumni, engage with prospective club members and so much more. From all of this, I found I have the needed qualities to serve as a National ADSA-SAD officer such as being inclusive, passionate and a maximizer. With these assets at hand, I promise to make sure all students’ needs are heard. I hope to share my passion with each member and prospective members so they can know the opportunities of the dairy community. Lastly, I know, especially in times like these, that not everything goes as wanted. I hope to bring my positive mindset and find new routes for students to continue to grow professionally within the National ASDA-SAD.
Why serve: We are incredibly fortunate to be among a group of people with a vast array of interests. Of course, we all hold a special place in our hearts for the dairy cow, but we all have a different pathway for our future. This organization encompasses many students with different backgrounds, perspectives on dairy and desired careers of the industry. As a National ADSA-SAD officer, I hope to be able to provide the necessary resources for each member. From attending ADSA conferences and industry tours provided by the Dairy Science Club at Iowa State, I found that we need to be more inclusive. With this position, I hope to work with professionals across the country to conduct interviews and collect knowledge on their job position. I want to create a space where members can go and search for career options in hopes they can find something that suits what they want in their future. Besides being able to help connect students to professionals, I hope to create more interaction between chapters. Being that we are all across the country, each chapter has unique aspects to showcase. From on-campus creameries to nearby dairy companies, each club has something they are able to share with another. During my time as an ADSA-SAD officer, I want to help strengthen interactions among universities so students can be more aware of opportunities and resources. Being able to serve as a National ADSA-SAD officer, I am determined to implement my ideas and the ideas of other members. In this position, I know that I can help each student feel welcomed and assure them they are in the right place. The dairy industry needs the bright minds of our students and I am proud to be able to help all members find their place.