Williamson and Strobel named runners-up

The Minnesota Pork Board selected Amelia Welter of Olmsted County as the 2017-2018 Minnesota Pork Ambassador. Sierra Williamson of Martin County was named first runner-up and Kenny Strobel of Waseca County was named second runner up.

 

Welter was named ambassador during an afternoon program on Wednesday, August 2 at the Wick Buildings Farmfest forum stage. The program was emceed by Lynn Ketelson of the Linder Farm Network and special guest Max Armstrong.

 

Minnesota’s Pork Ambassadors serve as good-will ambassadors for more than 3,000 family pig farmers while also gaining valuable professional and personal development opportunities.

“It is a privilege to work with the young people engaged in the ambassador program, their passion and enthusiasm for the pork industry is contagious,” says Jill Resler, chief operating officer for Minnesota Pork and ambassador program director. “The ambassador program serves as an incredible opportunity for these young people to grow as leaders and spokespeople for our industry.”

 

During the program, Analicia Swanson from Faribault County was recognized for writing the best essay and received a cash award. Anna Brekke of Scott County was recognized as the Congeniality Award winner.

 

Fifteen young people representing ten counties competed for the title of Minnesota Pork Ambassador. Candidates are evaluated based on their written essay, personal interview, public presentation and mock media interview. This year’s judges were Dustin Compart of Compeer Financial, Sheila Schmid, Schwartz Farms Inc., and Wanda Patsche, CW Pork.