Iowa dairy princess title goes to Haley

By Andi Anderson

Haley Ronnebaum, a teenager from Earlville in Delaware County, has been crowned the 71st Iowa Dairy Princess. The crowning ceremony took place during an evening event at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines on Wednesday night.

Haley, the daughter of Mitch and Jenny Ronnebaum, will serve as a goodwill ambassador for Iowa’s dairy farmers throughout her one-year reign.

In this role, she will make public appearances to connect with consumers and educate them about the dedication of dairy farm families to their cows, land, and the milk they produce.

Having previously served as the Delaware County Dairy Princess, Haley represented her county in the state contest.

This fall, she will begin her studies at Iowa State University, majoring in dairy science. Haley's skills were further recognized during the contest as she excelled in the public speaking portion.

Harley Baumler, a 20-year-old from Fort Atkinson, was named the Iowa Dairy Princess Alternate. The daughter of Mike and Amy Baumler, Harley will share responsibilities with Haley.

She represented Fayette County and will be a junior at Iowa State University, studying agricultural and rural policy. Harley was also awarded the title of Miss Congeniality in the contest.

The Iowa Dairy Princess contest saw eight candidates vying for the title. The judging process, which took place on August 6th and 7th in Ankeny, included evaluations based on applications, essay question responses, interviews, public speaking skills, professionalism, and the ability to advocate for dairy farmers.

Haley Ronnebaum will officially begin her duties as Iowa Dairy Princess on September 1st. Her role will involve promoting the dairy industry and highlighting the hard work and commitment of Iowa’s dairy farming families.

Through her reign, Haley aims to bridge the gap between consumers and dairy farmers, ensuring a better understanding and appreciation of the dairy industry.

Her journey as Iowa Dairy Princess promises to be both educational and inspiring, reflecting her passion for dairy science and her dedication to the farming community.

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