Early-Life

I grew up on my family’s fourth-generation row crop farm, where we raise corn and soybeans, helping during busy seasons by feeding crews and running equipment, including tractors and semis. From an early age, I developed a deep understanding that agriculture is not just a career; it is a lifestyle and a passion. In high school, I became deeply involved in the National FFA Organization and 4-H, later earning my American FFA Degree. I also served as a go-to leader, helping oversee and launch numerous initiatives and clubs within my school.

During my time at Black Hawk College East Campus, I earned my Associate of Science degree while growing as a marketer, researcher, ambassador, and agricultural communicator. As a Marketing Student Worker, I created digital content and student voice articles that supported the college’s storytelling and online presence. I also completed an Honors Research and Capstone Project on how social media influences college enrollment trends. As a Student Ambassador and Marketing Ambassador, I connected with prospective students and families while helping grow the Marketing Ambassador team from 3 to 11 members. My content work contributed to 18 of the college’s top 20 most-viewed TikToks, showing the impact of authentic, student-centered storytelling. My agricultural background was strengthened through Soils Judging, where my team placed 1st overall and I placed 7th individually at the 2026 NACTA Soils Judging Contest. I was also honored as a Founder Scholar, named to the Honor Roll all four semesters, and recognized as Outstanding Freshman.