UMN students make their mark in butter as Princess Kay finalists

LI YAN TAN, STRATEGIC COMMUNICATION, BA '25

Organized by the Midwest Dairy Association, the Princess Kay of the Milky Way program celebrates young women who are passionate about dairy and dedicated to representing Minnesota’s agricultural communities. Finalists are selected based on their knowledge of the dairy industry, strong communication skills and their enthusiasm for sharing the story of Minnesota dairy. Their passion for agriculture runs deep, and each of them is using this platform to help connect people with the communities behind the food they enjoy every day.

As part of the experience, each finalist will have her likeness sculpted live in a 90-pound block of butter during the Minnesota State Fair. This beloved tradition marks its 60th year in 2025 and continues to draw the admiration of fairgoers inside the Dairy Building.

The Princess Kay winner will be crowned on Wednesday, August 20, the night before the Fair begins. She will serve as a goodwill ambassador for Minnesota’s dairy farmers, attending events across the state, engaging with consumers and helping share the importance of local dairy in our daily lives.

Among this year’s finalists are three outstanding students from the University of Minnesota system: Alexis Hoefs, Paige Frenchick and Haylie Wielenberg. Here’s a closer look at their journeys, passions and what this honor means to them.

Alexis Hoefs 

What do you study at the University of Minnesota, and what drew you to that field?

I’m studying Animal Science with a focus on production. Growing up on my family’s dairy farm sparked a deep passion for dairy cattle. It’s always felt like home, and I’ve known for a long time that I want to build my future in this industry.

What are you involved with on or off campus that you’re passionate about?

I’m involved with the Gopher Dairy Club, which has introduced me to peers and mentors who inspire me daily. I’m also a proud member of Lambda Delta Phi, a sorority based on the St. Paul campus. Beyond campus, I’m active in the Minnesota Junior Holstein Association (MJHA). It's played a huge role in my personal growth.

How did you first get connected to the dairy world?

I grew up immersed in it. My family runs Hoefs Dairy LLC, a 250-cow herd. I’ve been helping out from a young age, and that hands-on experience shaped the passion I have today.

What do you love most about being part of the dairy community?

The people. It’s an incredibly supportive and genuine network. No matter where you go, someone is always ready to offer advice, encouragement, or a helping hand.

What has being named a Princess Kay finalist meant to you so far?

It’s meant the world to me. I’ve dreamed about this for as long as I can remember. Being part of a program that uplifts dairy farmers and shares their stories is such an honor.

What’s a fun or surprising fact about you that people might not expect?

I’m currently working in New York at Ideal Dairy LLC. It’s been an amazing experience and has broadened my perspective on how different farms operate.

Paige Frenchick 

What do you study at the University of Minnesota, and what drew you to that field?

I’m studying Biology. I’ve always been curious about how living things work. Biology lets me explore everything from genetics to ecosystems, and I’m especially drawn to how science can be applied to agriculture and animal health. That connection ties directly to my dairy background.

What are you involved with on or off campus that you’re passionate about?

I’m involved with the Gopher Dairy Club and other CFANS events that connect students to agriculture. Off campus, I stay active in dairy promotion. I also love spending time with my Clovia sisters. They’re truly like a second family.

How did you first get connected to the dairy world?

It started with my family. I began showing calves as a kid, and from there, I was hooked. Being in 4-H and FFA helped grow my knowledge and love for the industry.

What do you love most about being part of the dairy community?

The people. The community is full of genuine, hardworking individuals who care deeply about animals, farming and each other. There’s a shared sense of purpose that makes it all feel so meaningful.

What has being named a Princess Kay finalist meant to you so far?

It’s a huge honor and truly a dream come true. It’s given me the chance to represent the industry I love and connect with inspiring leaders across the state. It’s also reminded me how important it is to use my voice to advocate for agriculture.

What’s a fun or surprising fact about you that people might not expect?

People are always surprised to learn that I’m not a CFANS major. I’m actually in CBS! Even though I’m very involved in agriculture, I chose a different academic path. I think it shows that your passions don’t have to perfectly align with your major.

Anything advice you'd like to share?

If you’re passionate about something, go for it. Whether it’s science, agriculture, or anything in between, don’t be afraid to chase the opportunities that excite you. Amazing things happen when you follow what you love.

Haylie Wielenberg 

What do you study at the University of Minnesota, and what drew you to that field?

I’m studying Animal Science with a Pre-Vet emphasis at the U of M Crookston. I’ve always been impressed by the work our veterinarians did on our farms and I love helping animals feel better. It’s what led me to this path.

What are you involved with on or off campus that you’re passionate about?

On campus, I’m actively involved in the UMC Farm Bureau, UMC Ag Arama, and UMC Dairy Club. Off campus, I’m passionate about my county’s 4-H program and the Dairy Princess Program. I’m involved in both and love giving back to those communities.

How did you first get connected to the dairy world?

My grandparents’ dairy farm was basically our daycare. My brother and I were there almost every day. As I got older, I started showing our dairy cattle in 4-H and became more involved with the farm. It all started there.

What do you love most about being part of the dairy community?

The passion. Everyone in the dairy community is so full of love for the work they do. There’s such a strong sense of family. We’re always willing to help each other, and that’s something I truly cherish.

What has being named a Princess Kay finalist meant to you so far?

It’s honestly been a dream come true. My grandpa and I dreamed about this since I was little. After he passed, I became even more determined to live up to that dream. It’s incredibly meaningful.

What’s a fun or surprising fact about you that people might not expect?

I played the tuba in high school, so I was kind of a band geek!

Let’s cheer on Alexis, Paige and Haylie as they represent the University of Minnesota and share their passion for dairy with the entire state! Their dedication, leadership and love for agriculture reflect the very best of our CFANS community.