Applications for 78th Alice in Dairyland open

WISCONSIN – The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) is inviting individuals with a passion for promoting agriculture to apply for the position of 78th Alice in Dairyland.

“As one of the most widely recognized marketing communications professionals in Wisconsin agriculture, Alice in Dairyland travels extensively, promoting Wisconsin’s agricultural industry and its impact on the state economy,” a release from DATCP said. “In this highly visible and fast-paced position, Alice in Dairyland serves as a full-time spokesperson; cultivates relationships with television, radio and print media outlets throughout the state; writes and delivers speeches at events; and uses social media to tell the stories of Wisconsin agriculture.”

Additional duties include developing and executing marketing plans, delivering classroom presentations and networking with industry professionals.

“Alice must also learn and retain information about the diversity of Wisconsin agriculture and be able to tailor that information to educate both urban and rural audiences,” DATCP stated.

"The Alice in Dairyland program may have started as a beauty pageant following World War II, but the role is now about so much more than wearing a tiara – it's about being a voice for Wisconsin's agriculture, sharing the stories of our agriculturalists and inspiring the next generation to continue the legacy,” said 77th Alice in Dairyland Halei Heinzel. “I am excited to work with the top candidates throughout the next several months as we lead up to the 78th Alice in Dairyland Finals.”

DATCP said Alice in Dairyland applicants should have an interest in Wisconsin agriculture, public speaking experience and at least three years of experience, education or training in communications, marketing, education or public relations. Applicants must also be female, Wisconsin residents and at least 21 years old.

The one-year, full-time contractual position starts July 7, 2025.

The chosen candidate will travel solo extensively throughout the state and be required to have weekly in-person office time at DATCP’s Madison office.

The annual salary for Alice in Dairyland is $45,000.00 and includes holiday, vacation and sick leave, and use of a vehicle while on official business. Reimbursement is provided for an individual health insurance premium up to $450.00 a month and professional travel expenses.

To apply, provide a cover letter, completed application form, resume and contact information for three professional references to DATCPAlice@wisconsin.gov by 4:30 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 31. Application materials are available on the Alice in Dairyland website.

DATCP said qualified applicants will participate in a preliminary interview on Saturday, Feb. 22, at DATCP’s Madison office or via Microsoft Teams. The resulting Top Candidates will be required to attend a two-day program briefing and press announcement on Friday, March 7 and Saturday, March 8, and the three-day final interview process from Thursday, May 15 through Saturday, May 17, in Crawford County.

Questions about the position or application process can be directed to DATCPAlice@wisconsin.gov.

For more information about the Alice in Dairyland program, visit www.aliceindairyland.com and follow Alice online on Facebook and Instagram.