American Dairy Association North East hosted a panel of former New York State Dairy Ambassador team members who shared their experiences during the New York State Dairy Ambassador Training seminar in June. Each reflected on how one year representing New York dairy farmers became an experience that continues to influence who they are today.

Sharing their stories were Addison Brown of Onondaga County, Ariana Aman of Tioga County, Gabby Taylor of Wayne County, Justin Mesch of Erie County, and Olivia Maslyn of Ontario County.

When asked what they gained from the program, you will hear much more than just public speaking or media experience.

They’ll tell you about finding confidence. Building lifelong friendships. Discovering career paths they never considered. Learning to advocate for agriculture. And developing skills that continue to shape their lives years after their term has ended.

While every ambassador’s journey is different, they all point to the same takeaway: the program is about much more than representing dairy for a year. It’s about building confidence, leadership and communication skills that last a lifetime.

Addison Brown, former New York State Associate Ambassador, said the experience helped prepare her for opportunities far beyond the dairy industry.

“Being a dairy ambassador really prepared me for those moments in life. Being able to just talk to people is a life skill that you can use forever,” Brown said, recalling how the program helped prepare her for national leadership competitions and impromptu interviews.

Those communication skills also helped reshape her future.

“I learned that I really love connections,” she said. “My goal right now is to go into agricultural policy. We need to educate our lawmakers about ag — the people who are making decisions on behalf of our farmers and consumers.”

Former New York State Dairy Ambassador Gabby Taylor says the program provided skills she now relies on every day in her career as a policy analyst with New York Farm Bureau.

“Every single day I work with farmers, legislators and our members to talk about why agriculture is so important and the issues that matter to them,” Taylor said. “The public speaking and farmer and consumer communication skills I developed as a dairy ambassador are something I use every day.”

Her advice to future applicants is simple:

“Be confident. You’re there because someone believes you can do this—so you can.”

For former New York State Associate Dairy Ambassador Olivia Maslyn, the program opened doors she never expected.

Initially reluctant to compete, Maslyn now describes the opportunity as one of the most influential experiences of her young professional career.

“It gave me way more opportunities,” she said. “I know how to network. I know how to connect with people. Even though I’m not in a field directly with dairy cows today, I’m still educating people about the industry because it comes naturally now.”

Justin Mesch, former New York Associate Dairy Ambassador, said the experience strengthened his appreciation for agriculture and reinforced the importance of sharing its story.

“As every generation gets further removed from the farm, it’s important that those of us who are part of it are passionate and willing to share,” he said. “The program gave me a new appreciation for agriculture.”

The teamwork and leadership skills he developed continue to influence him today.

“We all have the possibility for greatness,” Justin said. “I think there are three things that contribute to that: passion, purpose and people. Find your passion, discover your purpose and surround yourself with great people. American Dairy Association North East gave me that opportunity.”

Former New York Dairy Ambassador Ariana Aman, currently in law school, admits public speaking was once her biggest fear. Today, she encourages future ambassadors to embrace new challenges.

“Be kind and challenge yourself,” she said. “You’re a lot more capable than you think you are. Keep pushing yourself, even when you feel exhausted—you can always take one more step forward.”

Many alumni also say one of the most rewarding parts of the experience is the relationships they built with their teams. Promoters who began the year as strangers often leave as lifelong friends, staying connected long after their service ends.

The New York State Dairy Ambassador Program is managed by American Dairy Association North East and prepares young leaders to represent New York dairy farmers through consumer events, media interviews, classroom visits, social media, and industry events. Participants receive professional communications training while developing leadership skills that benefit them in college, their careers and their communities.

For Brown, the biggest lesson is to embrace every opportunity.

“Take every chance and talk to everyone,” she said. “You never know what’s around the corner.”