When the crown meets the classroom: The story of a student-princess
Each year, the Minnesota State Fair brings back more than the usual excitement and fair food. It also brings the special moment when a new Princess Kay of the Milky Way is introduced, continuing a tradition that means a lot to communities across the state. Since 1954, this role has symbolized more than just a butter sculpture and a sash. It’s a celebration of Minnesota’s dairy community and the young women who represent it. This past year, that honor belonged to Rachel Visser, a CFANS student who balanced her royal duties with coursework, travel, advocacy and school spirit.
A dairy story that began in a barn
Rachel grew up near Hutchinson, Minnesota, where her love for dairy began in third grade when she leased her first calf through the 4-H program. “I quickly developed a desire to learn about everything that happens on the farm and how my favorite dairy products are produced,” she shared.
Though her dad grew up on a dairy farm and passed on his love for cows, Rachel’s journey was uniquely her own. Through her involvement in 4-H, FFA, dairy judging and hands-on farm activities, she built lasting connections and a strong sense of belonging. “I discovered a passion not only for cows, but for the people and values that make the dairy community so special.”
The dream of wearing the crown
Meeting local dairy royalty as a child left a lasting impression on Rachel. “I admired their contagious passion for the dairy community and the platform that the royalty program provides,” she said. As she became more involved in the dairy world, advocacy became one of her greatest passions. That passion eventually led her to step onto the Princess Kay stage.
Preparation for the competition came with anticipation and plenty of practice, including a memorable stretch of late-night speeches and pep talks in the McLeod County Fair barn. “It was the best reminder of why I wanted to pursue the role,” she recalled.
When her name was announced on coronation night, everything blurred. “It felt surreal... I was filled with excitement for the year ahead and pride for the community that I get to represent.”
More than just butter
Yes, Rachel sat in that famous rotating cooler at the State Fair for her butter sculpture. And yes, she spent all 12 days at the fair meeting visitors and celebrating dairy. But the role of Princess Kay reaches far beyond August.
“Many people don’t realize the full responsibility that Princess Kay has throughout the entire year,” Rachel said. “June—Dairy month—was my busiest month. I traveled over 2,400 miles to 23 events.”
Whether she was speaking at events or visiting classrooms, Rachel proudly represented Minnesota’s dairy community, bringing their stories and values to life. “One of the most meaningful parts was visiting schools. I spoke to over 3,000 students and was blown away by their curiosity and interest in where their food comes from.”
Rachel’s open-hearted personality helped her connect on a personal level everywhere she went. “I embraced my extroverted personality and authentic passion for dairy,” she said. “The one-on-one conversations I prioritized this year were especially memorable.”
A CFANS student with a crown
Throughout her reign, Rachel remained a full-time student at CFANS, pursuing majors in Agricultural and Food Business Management and Agricultural Communication and Marketing. Her dedication was evident in how she managed her time. “During the school year, I had about one Princess Kay responsibility each week. That made it easy to keep my academics a priority.”
Her education and her royal experience complemented each other. “I can’t wait to integrate the skills and knowledge from this past year into my future endeavors,” she said.
Lessons in leadership and legacy
Reflecting on the past year, Rachel says the biggest takeaway has been growth, personal and professional. “I’ve learned so much about myself, how I manage my time, and how to be fully present at every event. And I now appreciate even more the value of being part of the dairy and agricultural communities.”
She’s also learned how leadership can look in many different ways. “Sometimes all it takes is a simple conversation with someone new or sharing your passion to make a difference.”
As she prepares to pass on the crown, Rachel feels gratitude for the experience and excitement for what’s next. “While I’ll miss it greatly, I’m looking forward to stepping back into a routine at school and watching the next Princess Kay make the experience her own.”
And while her butter sculpture will live on in the freezer, her impact will last much longer.
The new Princess Kay will be crowned on Wednesday, August 20, just before the Fair begins. This year, three incredible finalists, Paige Frenchick, Alexis Hoefs, and Haylie Wielenberg, are proudly representing the University of Minnesota system. You can learn more about their journeys and what this honor means to them in the full story.