Summary of yourself and your ag/dairy background:

As a little girl growing up on a small dairy farm, I always wanted to be a dairy princess and looked up to the many girls before me. In 2010 when we sold our cows, my passion and drive for the dairy industry continued to grow despite not living on a farm. I was still active and was a dairy ambassador for many years. Finally, it was then my turn to become the dairy princess I had always dreamed about being. Now throughout my reign, it is my hope to inspire other young girls to follow their dreams just like I did.

Audrey Schmitz

Editor / Progressive Dairy

Email Audrey Schmitz

How your reign started:

In May we held our county pageant where I was crowned the Berks County Dairy Princess. I started my reign promoting the dairy industry in my county at the grassroots level. In September at the state pageant, I competed against 23 other county dairy princesses. We competed in seven different categories, and the top three girls were chosen to be on the state royalty team. I was honored to be chosen as the state princess, and I have two wonderful alternates that travel with me on a state level.

Your promotion activities over the past year:

Throughout my year as dairy princess, I have had the opportunity to travel across Berks County as well as the state. I was able to present programs for school students, adult groups, banquets, festivals, fairs, social media posts and so much more. Each one is different, and I have been able to reach many people along my journey.

Specific promotion activity you are most proud of from your reign:

The promotions I enjoy the most are elementary school programs. Going into their classrooms and seeing the look on their faces when they see a "real" princess walk into the room is unforgettable. They are amazed to meet me and listen so well, and it is easy to teach them about the benefits of dairy products and the hard work farmers do. These younger children inspire me to be an advocate for the dairy industry.

What you think it takes to be successful at promoting dairy:

Passion and positivity. You must be passionate about what you are promoting in order to be successful. Also, always have a positive attitude. The dairy industry has struggled over the past few years, and we must look on the bright side of things. Just a simple smile will brighten a person's day.  

PHOTO: Pennsylvania’s State Dairy Princess Mikayla Davis presents dairy trivia to local fair goers. Photos provided by Mikayla Davis.