Congratulations to Natalie Thyen for being crowned South Dakota’s 56th State Dairy Princess!
Thyen, 19, is the daughter of Dan and Becky Thyen, Waverly, S.D. and is a student at Lake Area Technical Institute in Watertown, pursuing a career as a medical assistant.
Throughout the coming year, she will represent South Dakota dairy farmers at a variety of appearances, helping consumers to understand how milk is produced in a wholesome and responsible way. She receives a $1,000 scholarship from Midwest Dairy Association’s South Dakota Division.
Melissa Zemlicka, 19, Watertown, S.D. and Hiltien Landman, 19, of White, S.D. were named named runner-ups. Each was awarded a $500 scholarship from the Central Plains Dairy Expo. Zemlicka is the daughter of Daron and Valerie Zemlicka, while Landman’s parents are Rein and Boukje Landman.
The candidates for the title were judged on their general dairy knowledge and enthusiasm for the industry, communications skills and ability to reach consumer audiences. The Dairy Princess program is sponsored by Midwest Dairy Association through the dairy checkoff.
Source: Midwest Dairy Association