Earlville Teen Crowned Iowa Dairy Princess

The newly-crowned Iowa Dairy Princess hails from Delaware County.

Haley Ronnebaum of Earlville was crowned the 71st Iowa Dairy Princess during an evening ceremony at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines on Wednesday night.

Haley, daughter of Mitch and Jenny Ronnebaum, will spend the year serving as a goodwill ambassador for Iowa’s dairy farmers. Throughout her year-long reign, she will make public appearances to connect with consumers and help them understand the dedication of dairy farm families to their cows, their land and the milk they produce.

Haley represented Delaware County in the contest after serving as the Delaware County Dairy Princess last year. She will be a freshman at Iowa State University this fall, where she will study dairy science. Haley was also recognized for her performance in the public speaking portion of the contest.

Harley Baumler, 20, of Fort Atkinson, was named Iowa Dairy Princess Alternate. Harley, the daughter of Mike and Amy Baumler, will share duties with the princess. She represented Fayette County and will be a junior at Iowa State University studying agricultural and rural policy. Harley was also named Miss Congeniality in the contest.

Eight candidates competed for the Iowa Dairy Princess title, with the judging held August 6th and 7th in Ankeny. The winners were selected based on an application, answers to essay questions, interview and public speaking skills, professionalism and ability to advocate for dairy farmers.

Ronnebaum will begin her reign as Iowa Dairy Princess on September 1st.

photos courtesy of Midwest Dairy