Janis Dejager from Everson, representing Whatcom County, is the 2014-2015 Washington State Dairy Ambassador. Janis was one of six contestants at the 59th Annual Washington State Dairy Ambassador Coronation at the Grand Ballroom of the Holiday Inn in Everett.Marissa Apperson from Rochester and Marcy Bartelheimer from Snohomish were selected as Alternate Ambassadors.
As a representative of the Dairy Farmers of Washington, the State Dairy Ambassador and Alternates will visit schools, attend county fairs, appear at Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) events and speak before the Washington state legislature promoting the health and nutrition benefits of dairy products. A Dairy Ambassador typically makes 400 public appearances during her year-long tenure.
Janis DeJager and her alternate ambassadors will receive scholarships to continue their education.
The dairy industry was well represented by 2013-2014 Washington State Dairy Ambassador Erin Peek and Alternate State Dairy Ambassadors Annie Birklid and Olivia Zurcher. These young ladies traveled around the state educating students, parents and others on the positive impact and value of Washington's dairy industry and the importance of dairy products.
The other 2013 finalists were:
Clark County Contestant Samantha Schmidt
Snohomish County Contestant Mikel Levi
Yakima Valley Contestant Katie Hutchins
Administrated by the Washington State Dairy Women, the Dairy Ambassador program began in 1955 and has mentored and supported outstanding young women.
6.23.2014