Shelby Benjamin of Chenango County will represent New York dairy farmers as the 2021-2022 New York State Dairy Princess. The daughter of Barry and Susan Benjamin, Shelby is a student at SUNY Morrisville and is a member of the New York and National Holstein associations and the Brown Swiss Association.
As state princess, Shelby receives a $1,200 scholarship and will serve as a dairy industry ambassador to promote dairy to consumers by supporting ADA North East’s dairy farmer-directed strategies with the goal of building consumer confidence in dairy farmers and dairy products. She will also play an integral role in developing and mentoring new county dairy princesses to fulfill the same mission.
Holly Niefergold from Erie County was named first Alternate State Princess, and Elizabeth Hymen from Jefferson County was selected as second Alternate State Princess. They receive a $700 scholarship and $600 scholarship, respectively. Both young women will assist the New York State Dairy Princess with training, appearances and other duties.
ADA North East manages the New York Dairy Princess program, and provides funding, training and promotional resources.