Meet Our 2026 Michigan GROWN, Michigan GREAT Ambassadors!

Thomas Brewer-Brown | Flint, Michigan

Emma Challender | Corunna, Michigan

Emma Challender is from Shiawassee, Michigan, and is currently in her third year at Michigan State University, studying Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources. Her passion for agriculture began in 2015 when she started showing swine at state-level jackpots and her county fair. Over the years, she has expanded her experience to include showing sheep and cattle. Emma is the founder of Emma’s Show Clinic, a free program that teaches kids how to show swine at a high level while also educating them on swine nutrition. Beyond showing livestock, she is actively involved in Michigan FFA, serving as a state officer during 2023–2024. Emma is thrilled to serve as a Michigan GROWN, Michigan GREAT Ambassador, promoting agriculture and youth leadership throughout the upcoming year.

Sophie Gardner | Greenville, Michigan

Sophie Gardner is from Greenville, Michigan, and is studying Agribusiness Management at Michigan State University. She currently works as an intern with Michigan Corn. Her passion for agriculture began when she started helping her grandmother with chores on her family’s Standardbred horse racing farm. Those early experiences sparked a deep appreciation for the industry and led her to participate in 4-H while growing up. Sophie’s career goal is to educate her community about agriculture and support Michigan farmers.

Nicole Hollabaugh | Ithaca, Michigan

Nicole Hollabaugh is a fourth-generation farmer who found her place in the industry through her involvement in 4-H and FFA. She has served in several leadership roles within both organizations, including as a Michigan FFA State Officer. Nicole is completing her Associate’s degree in Agriculture Operations at Montcalm Community College and will transfer to Michigan State University to study Agribusiness Management. She plans to pursue a career focused on producer relations, advocacy, and expanding consumer understanding of the farm-to-fork process. When not advocating for agriculture, she can be found in the tractor, working with her lambs, or bowling with friends and family.

Clara Milarch | Port Sanilac, Michigan

Clara Milarch is a fourth-generation farmer from the Thumb of Michigan. She currently studies Agricultural Education at Michigan State University, as well as working at the Michigan Farmers Market Association. She is passionate about getting communities involved with local agriculture, and connecting them with where their food comes from. She plans to move back to the farm with hopes of one day creating a location open to the public, welcoming school groups and other youth to see agriculture in action.

Kylie Steffee | Webberville, Michigan

Guided by grace and grounded in authenticity, Kylie Steffee is dedicated to advocating for agriculture. Inspired by numerous opportunities, Kylie loved every second of growing up in the heart of Michigan. With a drive that has led to various opportunities of showing livestock, as well as achievements in 4-H and FFA, she plans to share her skills and knowledge with others. Kylie is currently at Michigan State pursuing her Bachelor’s in Agriculture Food and Natural Resource Education. There, she serves as the Agriculture Education Club President, where she dedicates her time to making others feel welcomed and planning events.

Zoe Vanrijn | Deford, Michigan

Zoe Vanrijn is a sophomore at Oklahoma State University majoring in animal science. Raised on a dairy farm in Deford, Michigan, she developed a strong appreciation for the dedication of Michigan farmers. Through 4-H and livestock exhibition, showing swine, dairy cattle, and feeder calves, Zoe built leadership skills and a passion for the agricultural industry. As a member of the OSU Meat Judging Team, she continues to expand her knowledge. Zoe is passionate about advocating for agriculture and sharing the story of the producers who help feed and provide for communities across Michigan and beyond.

Anna Woller | Montague, Michigan

Anna Woller lives on her third-generation family crop and cattle farm. She was a 2024 graduate from Montague High School. She is furthering her education through the MSU IAT program at Muskegon Community College, where she hopes to become a crop consultant. Anna was heavily involved in FFA, holding leadership positions in both her local and regional chapters. Anna has been in 4-H for 13 years, showing calves, steers, and pigs; through 4-H, she also served as her county’s ambassador. Anna is excited for this opportunity to share with the public about Michigan agriculture.