What's Happening?
The University of Wisconsin-River Falls (UWRF) is prominently represented in the upcoming Alice in Dairyland finals, with half of the finalists being current or former students. Gabby Huitema, a senior majoring in animal science, along with alumni Michelle
Stangler and Jessica Moor, are among the contenders for the prestigious role. The Alice in Dairyland position, managed by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection, involves promoting the state's agriculture industry. Huitema, who has a background in showing lambs and promoting agriculture, is passionate about ensuring people understand the origins of their food. Stangler, a journalism and agricultural marketing communications graduate, has a rich history of storytelling in agriculture, having traveled extensively to document farmers' stories. Moor, with a background in business administration, developed her love for agriculture through 4-H and FFA activities. The finals, scheduled for May 14-16, will include various activities such as agribusiness tours and media interviews, culminating in the selection of the 79th Alice in Dairyland.
Why It's Important?
The Alice in Dairyland role is crucial for promoting Wisconsin's agriculture, a significant sector in the state's economy. By having representatives like Huitema, Stangler, and Moor, who are deeply passionate and knowledgeable about agriculture, the state ensures effective advocacy and education about agricultural practices and food origins. This role not only supports the agricultural community but also educates the public, fostering a better understanding of the industry. The involvement of UWRF students and alumni highlights the university's strong emphasis on agricultural education and advocacy, potentially inspiring more students to pursue careers in this vital field. The finalists' diverse backgrounds and experiences underscore the multifaceted nature of agricultural advocacy, from research and storytelling to hands-on farming and community engagement.
What's Next?
The Alice in Dairyland finals will take place over three days, featuring a series of events designed to test the candidates' knowledge and advocacy skills. The selection process includes agribusiness tours, media interviews, and presentations, with the winner being announced on May 16. The chosen candidate will begin their term on July 6, embarking on a year-long journey to promote Wisconsin's agriculture. This role will involve traveling across the state, engaging with various stakeholders, and participating in public events to raise awareness about the agricultural sector. The outcome of the finals will not only determine the next Alice in Dairyland but also set the tone for agricultural advocacy in Wisconsin for the coming year.
