Congratulations to Elizabeth Olson, Hutchinson, Minn. for her new title as the 56th Princess Kay of the Milky Way. Elizabeth was crowned in an evening ceremony at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds on August 26. This marks the first time two people have been named Princess Kay from the same family; Olson’s sister Sarah was crowned Princess Kay in 2002. Her other sister, Lana, was a finalist in 2005.
As Princess Kay, Olson, who represents McLeod County, will serve as the official goodwill ambassador for Minnesota’s nearly 4,700 dairy farmers. Elizabeth is the daughter of Loren and Laura Olson of Hutchinson, and is a sophomore at the University of Minnesota, majoring in animal science and minoring in applied economics.
Twelve county dairy princesses competed for the Princess Kay of the Milky Way title. Sarah Brauen of Foley, representing Benton County, and Emily Lahr of Sauk Centre, representing Stearns County, were selected as runners-up. Jessica Oelfke of Hamburg, representing Sibley County, was named Miss Congeniality. Scholarships were awarded to Olson, Brauen and Lahr.
One of Olson’s first duties as Princess Kay will be to sit in a rotating cooler for nearly eight hours on the opening day of the Minnesota State Fair to have her likeness sculpted in a 90-pound block of butter. Each of the 11 other finalists will have her likeness carved in butter during the fair, as well. Throughout her yearlong reign as Princess Kay of the Milky Way, Olson will make public appearances helping consumers make a connection with Minnesota dairy farm families who are dedicated to producing wholesome milk while caring for their animals and natural resources.
Princess Kay candidates are judged on their general knowledge of the dairy industry, communication skills, personality and enthusiasm for dairy promotion. The Midwest Dairy Association sponsors the Princess Kay program with funds provided by dairy farmers.