2023 Lewis County Dairy Ambassador Crowned 

On Saturday, outgoing Lewis County Dairy Ambassador Brea Tracy crowned her successor, Emily Wilson, a 16-year-old junior at Willapa Valley High School.

The 2023 dairy ambassador is joined by Makayla Steger, who will serve as her alternate. Both will be involved in representing the dairy industry at parades, local events and schools, according to one member of the Lewis County Dairy Women. 

The program awards “young women the opportunity to grow their public speaking skills, gain poise and promote the dairy industry,” according to a post from the dairy ambassador Facebook page.

After completing their reign, ambassadors are awarded a $750 scholarship and alternates receive a $500 scholarship.

Wilson is the daughter of Jim and Linda Wilson. She is a Running Start student at Grays Harbor College. Wilson serves as president of the Willapa Valley FFA chapter and is an Honor Society member. 

According to a statement from Wilson, she enjoys participating in basketball and track and working with her cows. After graduating high school with her associate’s degree, she plans to pursue a career in veterinary medicine.

Wilson lives on a 100-cow dairy farm in Frances and, according to the program’s statement, is “most excited about parades and educating the public about the dairy community.”

Steger is the daughter of Dale and Wanda Steger. She is a 17-years-old junior at Adna high school and a Running Start student at Centralia College. She is the Adna FFA's vice president as well as the current District 3 FFA treasurer. After getting her general associate's degree she hopes to continue her education at Oregon State University to pursue a career as a veterinarian.

Steger works on Claquato Farms for her aunt and uncle. 

“Makayla is most excited to educate her community more about the dairy industry and make new connections,” the statement read.