Midwest Dairy recently crowned two new Dairy Princesses in Iowa and Minnesota. These remarkable young leaders will serve as goodwill ambassadors for the dairy industry over the next year, making public appearances to connect with consumers and help them understand the dedication of dairy farm families to their cows, their land, and the milk they produce. Learn more about the newly around Iowa and Minnesota Dairy Princesses below.
Iowa
Haley Ronnebaum was crowned the 71st Iowa Dairy Princess during an evening ceremony at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines on August 7. Haley, daughter of Mitch and Jenny Ronnebaum represented Delaware County in the contest. She will be a freshman at Iowa State University this fall, studying dairy science. Haley was also recognized for her performance in the public speaking portion of the contest.
Harley Baumler, of Fort Atkinson, was named Iowa Dairy Princess Alternate. Harley, the daughter of Mike and Amy Baumler will share duties with the princess. She represents Fayette County and will be a junior at Iowa State University studying agricultural and rural policy. Harley was also named Miss Congeniality in the contest.
Eight candidates competed for the Iowa Dairy Princess title, with the judging held on August 6 and 7 in Ankeny. The winners were selected based on an application, answers to essay questions, interview and public speaking skills, professionalism, and ability to advocate for dairy farmers.
Minnesota
Rachel Visser was crowned the 71st Princess Kay of the Milky Way in an evening ceremony on August 21 at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. Rachel is the daughter of Barry and Shannon Visser and represents McLeod County. She currently attends the University of Minnesota.
Nine county dairy princesses competed for the title of Princess Kay of the Milky Way. Katie Ketchum of Altura, representing Winona County, and Grace Woitalla of Avon, representing Stearns County, were selected as runners-up. Rachel, Katie, and Grace were also named scholarship winners. Mackenzie Moline of Saint Peter, representing Nicollet County, was named Miss Congeniality.