ADANE Introduces the 2026–2027 New York State Dairy Ambassadors
Each year, three dedicated leaders are selected to represent and advocate for New York’s dairy farmers across the state. Through the New York State Dairy Ambassador Program, young agricultural leaders step into a year of service focused on education, promotion, and building trust between farmers and consumers.
Managed by the American Dairy Association North East (ADANE), the program equips ambassadors with media training, social media mentorship, and hands-on experience at consumer events. Ambassadors serve as spokespeople for New York dairy farmers, sharing how milk and dairy foods are produced, how farmers care for their cows and land, and why dairy remains the state’s largest agricultural commodity. In addition to representing the industry, ambassadors earn scholarships and gain valuable leadership experience that prepares them for future careers in agriculture and beyond.
With 2,800 dairy herds producing more than 16 billion pounds of milk each year, New York consistently ranks as a top dairy producer in the United States. The work of these NYS dairy leaders plays an important role in strengthening public understanding of the industry and supporting dairy advocacy in New York.
Meet the 2026–2027 New York State Dairy Ambassador Team
This year’s team represents Orange, Cortland, and Cattaraugus counties and brings a shared passion for dairy education and youth leadership.
Kierra Knobloch, Associate Dairy Ambassador: Kierra discovered her passion for dairy through involvement in FFA and hands-on experience working on a local dairy farm. Although she did not grow up in the industry, her interest quickly developed into a commitment to dairy advocacy. She plans to pursue a degree in Dairy Science and Management at SUNY Cobleskill and looks forward to sharing her enthusiasm for dairy across New York.
Hannah Wieboldt, Dairy Ambassador: As a former Orange County dairy ambassador and active leader within other dairy organizations, Hannah brings experience and confidence to the statewide role. She grew up on her family’s farm and is passionate about promoting how dairy farmers care for their animals and land while producing high-quality milk for communities throughout New York.
Christiana Borst, Associate Dairy Ambassador: Over the past year, Christiana has served as the Cortland County Dairy Ambassador, gaining firsthand experience in dairy promotion. She found her path into agriculture through FFA and plans to study Animal Science with a focus on dairy. She is eager to connect with consumers and advocate for New York’s dairy industry during her year of service.
Strengthening New York’s Dairy Community
The New York State Dairy Ambassador Program cultivates the next generation of dairy leaders while connecting consumers to the farmers who sustain communities across the state. Through classroom visits, media appearances, community events, and digital outreach, ambassadors help share information about dairy farming and the nutritional benefits of milk and dairy foods.
Programs like this strengthen the bond between consumers and producers. They ensure that the hard work, stewardship, and innovation of New York dairy continues to be told with authenticity and pride.
As Hannah, Kierra, and Christiana begin their year of service, they carry forward a decades-long legacy of youth dairy leadership. Their dedication supports dairy promotion in New York and reinforces the vital role New York dairy farmers play in the state’s economy, communities, and future.