Mikayla Flyte ’23 announced as finalist for Alice in Dairyland

Ripon College graduate student Mikayla Flyte is among the finalists to become the Wisconsin agriculture spokesperson and ambassador Alice in Dairyland.

“I am honored to be a top candidate for the 78th Alice in Dairyland,” Flyte said. “I am really excited about the opportunity to learn more about Wisconsin agriculture and represent the diverse agribusinesses in my local community. It is empowering to have the opportunity to be a strong female voice in agriculture. I am excited to show that my background in English, education, business and even sport psychology connect to my roots growing up on a farm.”

Alice in Dairyland is a promotional tool of the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. According to their website, Alice is “a public relations professional who works with media, youth organizations, civic groups and a wide array of local events to facilitate a deeper understanding of the state’s agricultural industries.”

Flyte said the Alice in Dairyland interview process is unique in terms of the personal development opportunities it offers. Since being named a finalist she has appeared on television and radio.

“I am looking forward to growing in my public speaking abilities, networking with consumers and producers and elevating special Wisconsin products through the speeches, writing samples and projects I am preparing for the finals in May,” Flyte said.

Flyte helps out with her family’s central Wisconsin fruit and vegetable farm, manages an ice cream truck, sells produce and assists with retail, marketing and agritourism events.

“Growing up on a diverse family farm has instilled in me the importance of hard work and innovation,” Flyte said. “Our family farm has always been my foundation where I return each summer to participate fully in the strawberry, blueberry and vegetable seasons while running my ice cream truck: Melvin the Moo Truck.”

She said her family has taught her that no dream is too big with a strong support system and dedication.

“It is my hope to always be connected to our family farm and continue the legacy of hard work that sustains the business,” Flyte said. “Participating in the seasonal harvests and marketing opportunities inspires me creatively and allows me to connect with my local community.”

Flyte earned her bachelor’s degree in English with minors in Spanish, business management/entrepreneurship and educational studies in 2023. She will be among the first cohort to graduate from Ripon College’s master’s program this May with a degree in exercise science and a concentration in sport psychology. She also is completing an applied sport psychology internship with Assistant Professor of Exercise Science-Sport Psychology Yonatan Sarig. Afterwards, she hopes to pursue a degree in counseling and work as a therapist supporting a variety of people, including athletes and farmers.

“Ripon College has been a huge part of my story and support system,” said Flyte, who has been a stand-out performer on the Red Hawks cross country and track and field teams. “I love the community here.”

The selection process for Alice in Dairyland involves several rounds of interviews and meetings aimed at showcasing the candidates’ skills, as well as providing training in public speaking and managing media interviews.

The finals are May 15-17 in Crawford County, which include agribusiness tours, question and answer sessions, media interviews and presentations. The winner will be announced May 17 in Prairie du Chien, and the new Alice will start her term July 7.

To learn more about Flyte, go to this interview with WFRV Local 5 or this interview with Mid-West Farm Report.