Class 3 of the Dairy Experience and Agricultural Leadership Program (DEAL) convened in Chicago, Illinois, in November for Phase 2 of the program. The theme for this phase was “Engaging with Consumers.” The event provided learning opportunities to equip DEAL members with skills to connect with consumers in person and online.
The meeting began by exploring consumer insights to better understand dairy trends in retail and how Gen Z perceives dairy products. Kim Bremmer from Ag Inspirations presented communication strategies to help DEAL members share scientific information and effectively engage with consumers. The next day, we discussed engaging with consumers online, with Don Schindler of Dairy Management Inc. leading the presentations. He emphasized the importance of an online presence for sharing stories and creating a digital legacy. Don also covered creating captivating social media videos and shared best practices for answering tough questions online.
The group also toured The Hatchery, a Midwest Dairy partner. They explored its facilities and listened to three entrepreneurs who won the Midwest Dairy pitch contest. Deal members were also thrilled to sample the delicious foods created by these entrepreneurs. On the final day of the meeting, participants gained insights into Gen Z and learned how Midwest Dairy is engaging with this audience in meaningful ways. The meeting concluded with an interactive group activity where DEAL members planned a local dairy promotion event based on the provided scenario. With the goal of “Bringing Dairy to Life,” this hands-on workshop allowed them to apply what they learned throughout the meeting.
DEAL members also had the opportunity to network with each other. Helping these farmers develop relationships with other like-minded dairy farmers is a key component of this program, and this class has become a tight-knit group. On the post-event survey, one farmer said, “There were a lot of great discussions. I enjoyed the hands-on activities during the sessions. I loved the tour of The Hatchery and meeting and trying the pitch contest winners’ products.” Another farmer commented, “I really enjoyed all the sessions and discussions that took place.”
We look forward to the third and final phase of the program, which will take place in the summer of 2025.
DEAL Class 3 comprises 17 farmers in partnership with the Dairy Alliance.
- Amber Selman, IA
- Jennifer Bronner, IA
- Katherine Boelen, IA
- Kendra Holland, IL
- Amanda Zigan, MN
- Brittany Moorse, MN
- Cole Hoscheit, MN
- Elizabeth Anderson, MN
- Kevin Korbel, MN
- Quinci Schmidt, MN
- Jess Wohler, KS
- Todd Pauly, KS
- Aaron Stewart, MO
- Nicolas Dotson, NO
- Allison Alder, NE
- Caden Cowherd, KY
- Rachel Gray, NC
DEAL is an 18-month program that provides young dairy farmers with an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the dairy checkoff, learn how to engage with consumers, conduct media interviews, and network with industry leaders and peers. You can learn more on our website here.