The Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) has hired Gracie Ash as the Communications Intern and Samantha Richert as the Foundation Intern for the summer of 2023. Both Ash and Richert started their internships at the end of May, and will be with MFBF through the Minnesota State Fair.

As the communications intern, Ash will support the communications efforts for MFBF, including social media, website maintenance, video and writing stories. Ash hopes to build her portfolio through learning and experiencing more of Minnesota’s agriculture.

Gracie is a rising junior at the University of Minnesota, majoring in Agricultural Communication and Marketing and obtaining minors in Leadership and Media and Information. Gracie grew up in Milaca, MN while staying involved in agriculture through 4-H. While on campus she is involved with the Gopher Dairy Club, Lambda Delta Phi Sorority, Block and Bridle, AECM Club, works at the CFANS Advising Center, and nannies off campus. Some of her hobbies include showing cows, watching movies and shows, listening to music, and traveling to Walt Disney World. Later this summer, Gracie will become a butterhead at the Minnesota State Fair as she is a Princess Kay of the Milky Way Finalist. Gracie hopes to see her passion for agriculture continue in her career through making connections with both producers and consumers. 

As the foundation intern, Richert will assist the Foundation and leadership development programming through event organization and planning. Richert is excited for the summer ahead and all the activities it will bring. 

Sam is a rising senior at South Dakota State University, majoring in Agriculture Communications with minors in Animal Science, Marketing, and Digital and Social Media. Sam grew up on her family’s beef, goat, and swine farm in Springfield, MN. She stays active on campus by being involved in Little International, Block and Bridle, Jackrabbit Memorial Jackpot Show Executive Committee, Advertising Club, and KSDJ Radio. In her free time, she enjoys showing cattle, spending time on the lake, camping, painting, and recently gardening. Sam hopes to promote farmers and agriculture to the public through communication and public events.