2026 Princess Kay of the Milky Way Finalists

Kalley is the daughter of Keith and Angela Christen. She is an incoming sophomore at the University of Wisconsin – River Falls, studying Agricultural Business and Dairy Science. Kalley discovered her passion for dairy after leasing Brown Swiss cattle as a third grader. This experience led her and her sister Brielle to purchase and show their own cattle while helping at Sunkist Acres. She is involved in 4-H, FFA, the Agricultural Business & Marketing Society, and the Dairy Club. Kalley found a place to connect with others and share her appreciation for agriculture at the county level, inspiring her to pursue the next step through the Princess Kay program.

Elizabeth is the daughter of Ron and Jennifer Coudron. She is an incoming junior at South Dakota State University studying Animal Science with specializations in Industry Relations and Agricultural Science, while minoring in Agricultural Business and Marketing. Growing up on her family’s farm and caring for dairy heifers with her siblings sparked her interest in the dairy industry. She is involved in Dairy Club, Farm Bureau, Alpha Zeta, and serves as an Animal Science Ambassador. She is passionate about sharing the story of dairy and helping consumers connect with the families that are behind the products that they enjoy daily.

Stephanie is the daughter of Steve and Esther Dykstra. She is an incoming sophomore at South Dakota State University studying Agricultural Science with minors in Agricultural Business, Agricultural Marketing, Rural Land Evaluation and Real Estate, and Animal Science. Stephanie grew up on her family’s dairy farm where she gained an appreciation for the industry by working alongside her family. She is involved in Collegiate Farm Bureau, Dairy Club, 4-H, and the Navigators Worship Club. Stephanie believes there is a passion behind every part of agriculture and enjoys incorporating dairy into her everyday life by sharing her experiences, answering questions, and connecting with others.

Claudia is the daughter of Amanda Frenchick. She is an incoming sophomore at the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities studying Animal Science with a pre-veterinary emphasis. Her connection to dairy began while making frequent visits to her grandparents’ dairy farm. At four years old, she asked for a Jersey heifer of her own, beginning a lifelong involvement in the dairy industry. Claudia is involved in the Beta of Clovia Sorority, Gopher Dairy Club, Agricultural Education, Communication and Marketing Club, Agriculture Business Club, and 4-H. She also serves as a Midwest Dairy Ambassador and junior member of the Jersey and Holstein Association. Outside of dairy, Claudia enjoys drawing, creating art, and listening to music.

Jena is the daughter of Steve and Suzie Hanson. She is an incoming junior at the University of Wisconsin – River Falls studying Dairy Science Management. Jena discovered her love for the dairy industry while mentoring on a local dairy farm. She has always loved animals but was specifically drawn in by how close the dairy community is, inspiring her to pursue a future in the industry. She is involved in the Dairy Club, FFA, and the Newman Center. Although she did not grow up on a dairy farm, Jena enjoys sharing her unique journey into the industry and hopes it encourages others to discover the many opportunities the dairy industry has to offer.

Morgan is the daughter of Jim and Tina Morrow. She is an incoming freshman at the University of Minnesota – Crookston studying Agricultural Business with plans to become a florist. Morgan developed an appreciation for the dairy industry while helping on her FFA advisor’s farm, where she admired the connection and care shown toward the animals. Morgan is involved in 4-H, FFA, the Minnesota Junior Hereford Association, and Minnesota Pork Producers. She enjoys advocating for the dairy industry through community events and sharing experiences with others. Morgan is grateful for the support of her parents, her sister Brooke, and her advisor Kristin, who have encouraged her throughout her dairy journey.

Isabella is the daughter of John and Kristie Schiffler. She is an incoming freshman at North Dakota State University studying Animal Science. Isabella grew up on her family’s dairy farm where she has been involved from a young age in helping with chores and caring for the animals. Her interest in dairy and animal health grew through working on the farm and watching veterinarians at work, inspiring her goal of becoming a large animal veterinarian. Isabella is involved in 4-H, FFA, soccer, basketball, track, National Honor Society, and Letter Club. Her favorite dairy memory is convincing her dad to get her first Brown Swiss, which remains one of her favorites today.

Gracie is the daughter of Loran and Heidi Sellner. She is an incoming senior at South Dakota State University studying Agricultural Education. Gracie has been involved in her family operation from a young age and found a love for sharing the story of dairy and educating others about the industry. She is involved in FFA, 4-H, and the South Dakota State Agricultural Education Club. Gracie hopes to become a high school educator while continuing to inspire future generations through agriculture and hands-on learning. Outside of the classroom and farm, Gracie enjoys playing softball, attending concerts, creating arts and crafts, and spending time with family, friends, and her dog.

Jaiden is the daughter of Jeremy and Emily Smith. She is an incoming sophomore at the University of North Dakota, studying Nursing and Human Nutrition. Jaiden grew up on her family’s organic dairy farm where she helps with milking, feeding, vaccinations, and herd records. Through her work on the farm, visiting other farms, and connecting with other people, she has grown to love the dairy industry. Jaiden is involved in the Nursing Student Association, Nursing Student Council, Hall Government, and Pediatric Pack where she supports a young girl who is in the hospital. She plans to use her career in nursing to give back to agricultural communities while remaining a strong advocate for the dairy industry.

Daisy is the daughter of Mike and Lori Zimmermann. She is an incoming freshman at Ridgewater College studying Agricultural Business. Daisy grew up on her family’s dairy farm, where her parents have milked cows for nearly 20 years. She helps with daily chores like feeding calves and milking, and she enjoys spending time in the barn and connecting with the animals. Daisy has been involved in 4-H, FFA, and National Professional Agriculture Student Organization. One of her favorite ways to advocate for the dairy industry is visiting nursing homes and talking with the residents about dairy farming. She looks forward to continuing to promote the dairy industry and share the dedication and care dairy farmers have for their animals and communities.