Release Date: January 2, 2019
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Media Contacts: Rick Hummell, 608-224-5041 richard.hummell@wi.gov
or Bill Cosh, Communications Director, 608-224-5020 William2.Cosh@wi.gov
MADISON – As one of the most widely recognized communications
professionals in Wisconsin agriculture, Alice in Dairyland educates Wisconsin
children and adults about the value, economic impact and future of the state’s
$88 billion agricultural industry. Individuals interested in applying to become
the next “Alice” – the 72nd to hold the yearlong position – are invited to
submit applications through Thursday, Feb. 4, 2019.
In this highly visible and fast-paced position, Alice in
Dairyland cultivates relationships with television, radio and print media
outlets throughout the state; writes and delivers speeches at events large and
small; and utilizes social media to tell the stories of Wisconsin agriculture.
Additional duties include developing and executing marketing plans, delivering
classroom presentations, and networking with industry professionals. Alice must
also learn and retain information about the diversity of Wisconsin agriculture
and be able to tailor that information to educate both urban and rural
audiences.
Alice in Dairyland is an honored guest and speaker at many
notable Wisconsin events including State Fair, World Dairy Expo, county fairs
and dairy breakfasts, conferences and more. Alice manages scores of television
and radio interviews each year, and has a daily presence on multiple social
media platforms. This public relations position is the premier spokesperson
opportunity for a professional eager to step into the limelight to promote
Wisconsin agriculture.
“The Alice in Dairyland program packs a lifetime of learning
experience into one short year,” Kaitlyn Riley, 71st Alice in Dairyland, said.
“Serving as Alice in Dairyland has provided me with an exceptional opportunity
to expand my knowledge of our state’s diverse agriculture industry and improve
my ability to share the story of Wisconsin farmers and processors. The
application process alone connects candidates with agribusiness leaders and
provides a firsthand look at various industries. I encourage anyone with a
passion for agricultural communications and education to embrace this
opportunity to develop personally and professionally.”
Alice in Dairyland applicants should have an interest in
Wisconsin agriculture; at least three years of experience, education or
training in communications, marketing, education or public relations; and
public speaking experience. Applicants must be female, Wisconsin residents, and
at least 21 years old.
This one-year, full-time contractual position starts June 3,
2019. The position holder is headquartered in Madison and travels extensively
throughout the state. The annual salary for Alice in Dairyland is $45,000 and
includes holiday, vacation and sick leave as well as use of a vehicle for
official business. Reimbursement is provided for an individual health insurance
premium up to $450 a month, as well as professional travel expenses.
To apply, submit an application form, cover letter, resume and
three professional references to DATCP by 4:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 4, 2019.
Application materials are available at https://datcp.wi.gov/Pages/Growing_WI/AliceInDairyland.aspx
Qualified applicants will be invited to a preliminary interview
Feb. 15. Top candidates will be required to attend a two-day program briefing
and press announcement March 14-15, and the three-day final interview process at
which the new Alice will be selected will be held May 9-11, 2019 in Green County.
Questions regarding the position or application process can be
directed to Alice in Dairyland Program Director Ti Gauger at 608-224-5115 or Ti.Gauger@wisconsin.gov.
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