Anna BlakeDairy SpecialistVita PlusLoyal, Wisconsin
What education are you bringing with you to this position?
After graduating from Berlin High School, I attended the University of Wisconsin – Madison and received a bachelor’s degree in both dairy science and Spanish language and Hispanic studies. I built upon my education through experiences with the UW – Madison collegiate dairy cattle judging team, Association of Women in Agriculture and National Agri-Marketing Association. I also spent a summer taking classes at the University of Alcalá de Henares in Spain.
Please describe your agricultural background.
I grew up on my parents’ dairy farm in Waushara County, Wisconsin. I was active in 4-H, FFA and the Junior Holstein Association. I showed dairy cattle, market steers, pigs and horses at my county fair. In eighth grade, I started my own herd of registered Holsteins, which I exhibited at the Wisconsin State Fair and Wisconsin Holstein shows. I was crowned the 2012 Wisconsin Holstein Association Princess Attendant, which allowed me to promote not only the Holstein cow, but also the dairy industry as a whole.
What territory will you cover?
I will work with dairy farms throughout central Wisconsin.
What are your new responsibilities?
As a dairy specialist, I will work with dairy producers to help them develop a sound nutrition program for their animals, as well as provide an extra set of eyes to help them reach the goals of their operations.
Who has made the biggest impact on your career?
My family has made the biggest impact on my career. My parents taught me the importance of working hard and helping others achieve their goals. Growing up on my family’s dairy farm and actively playing a role on it allowed me to fall in love with the dairy industry, which ultimately led me to pursue a dairy science degree and pursue a job helping others in the industry I love.
How will you be of most help to producers in your region or area of expertise?
I will bring my knowledge, and the knowledge of our whole team, to dairies of all sizes to help them with everything from calves to milk cows.
Why did you choose this company?
I was drawn to Vita Plus because the company really does put its customers first. Vita Plus employee owners work hard to add the “plus” to the products and services. I saw that at my first interaction with the company as I was interning on a farm, and its Vita Plus consultant took the extra time to work with me. I also like that the company is employee-owned, and everyone within the company wants to see each other succeed.
What goals would you like to accomplish while in this position?
In this position, I want to help customers realize their goals for their operations and then work with them in achieving their goals. PD
