For UW-Green Bay alumna Mackenzie Ullmer, ‘Dairy is where she comes from, and dairy is where she will stay’
There is an expression that you can take the kid out of the country, but you can’t take the country out of the kid.
The same can be said for UW-Green Bay’s recent graduate (December 2021) graduate Mackenzie Ullmer (Communication). Because no matter where she is, her heart goes back to her family farm, Ullmstar Dairy, in Seymour, Wis. Her passion for the dairy industry was recognized recently by the National Dairy Promotion and Research Board (NDPRB), through Dairy Management Inc. (DMI), with a sizeable scholarship, awarded based on academic achievement, an interest in a career in a dairy-related discipline, and demonstrated leadership, initiative and integrity.
Mackenzie Ullmer with a prized Ayrshire
“For me, the dairy industry is the only place I truly feel ‘at home’ and can proudly look around and say, ‘these are my people’ Ullmer said in her application for the award. “Perhaps my favorite aspect of the industry is that it is truly one of the most unique and rewarding ‘communities’ to be a part of. You rise together, you fall together, you struggle together, and you celebrate your wins together. This sense of camaraderie is what makes me proud to say that I will forever advocate for the dairy industry. This is where I belong, and this is where I’ll stay.”
When she is not on the farm and showing off livestock herself, including her prized Ayrshires (a breed of dairy cattle originally from Scotland), she is working on the skills that will help her continue to work post-graduation in the promotion of the dairy industry.
She currently manages numerous social media accounts for organizations and businesses within the dairy industry.
Mackenzie Ullmer with her junior champion Ayrshire Photo by Lea Jordan
“Social media is such a huge part of people’s everyday life. Heck, most people nowadays post their proudest moments on social media or fill their free time scrolling through Facebook or Instagram. By routinely updating and growing the social media pages for Grand Champion Designs, Wisconsin Ayrshire Juniors’ Association, and the Wisconsin Ayrshire Spring Sale, I am reaching new people and advocating for each organization’s ‘why.’ This is what brings me the most joy. I love knowing that I am promoting not only the business or organization, but also the dairy industry from behind-the-scenes.”
Ullmer built her portfolio by working and interning with her deep dairy connections throughout her accelerated time at UW-Green Bay. (She graduated in just 2 ½ years!) And she is inspiring the next generation by mentoring individuals in both the care of cattle and the enthusiasm for the industry.
Communication Chair, Prof. Phil Clampitt presented Ullmer with her award and scholarship in December of 2021.
Story by Sue Bodilly, Marketing and University Communication. Photos submitted.
