Meet the 2008 National Beef Ambassador Team

Caitlin Williams, AZ

Hello from the great state of Arizona! My name is Caitlin Williams and I am proudly serving as the 2008 National Beef Ambassador. A little background about myself, I am the daughter and only child of Bill and Heidi Williams and I was born and raised in Arizona. Agriculture has been a part of my life ever since I can remember and since then, I have lived and breathed it everyday of my life. I grew up in a couple of small towns in Northern Arizona where my passion for the beef industry began. It all started one spring when I was finally old enough to help out and we all headed down to a neighboring friend’s ranch the help with the round-up and branding. This is where I found that cattle were not only my love but my livelihood and that has been unchanged since. Growing up, I showed beef cattle and enjoyed spending my time training and showing horses of all different disciplines. In high school, I served as a member and officer of the FFA where I truly found my niche and began my preparations to further my education in the agriculture industry. I am currently in my second year at the University of Arizona in Tucson where I am pursuing a degree in Agriculture Education with a minor in Animal Science. My hope after graduating is to become an agriculture educator and work with youth and the future of the industry as we know it.

I dedicate a good portion of my time to the Farm Bureau Young Farmer and Rancher Program, Collegiate Cattle Grower’s Association, and the University of Arizona Livestock Judging Team. I enjoy working at the University farm with the cattle and hogs as a way to forget that I am in the city and not miles away from civilization on the back of a good horse checking cows. I believe in following your true passions, setting goals, and most of all, working hard for what you want and need in life. I strive to attain one of my most important goals and that is to make a difference in the lives of many through promotion and education of the agriculture industry. As a Beef Ambassador this year and for life, I will be able to truly begin working toward this goal while serving my fellow cattlemen and women as I work to preserve a way of life that I want my family to enjoy. It is my hope that I will be able to share my story, passion and knowledge for the beef industry with others and it is an honor to do so as a National Beef Ambassador.  

Jennifer Rassler, PA

Hi, my name is Jennifer Rassler and I am proud to be representing American beef producers in 2008! I am the daughter of Bryan and Robin Rassler from the small town of Kempton, Pennsylvania.  My passion for the cattle industry began young, as I worked on the dairy farm that my mother and her two brothers own and operate.  As a very active member of 4-H, I showed dairy cattle, dairy beef feeder calves, market steers and beef heifers for eleven years.  Over the last few years, my sister, Jordan, and I have purchased and bred our own Red and White dairy cattle, as well as Shorthorn and Simmental cattle, in hopes of eventually selling breeding stock.  My love for agriculture led me to Penn State where I am currently in my second year studying Animal Science and Agricultural Business Management.  On campus I am very active, serving as a committee chairperson both in our Block and Bridle Club and Dairy Science Club.  Last year, I had the privilege to work closely with Chris Molinaro, a 2007 National Beef Ambassador and fellow Penn Stater, promoting beef on our campus and I hope to continue the legacy she has began.  I am thrilled about this opportunity to represent our amazing industry!    

Michelle Wiggley, CA

Howdy! My name Michelle Wiggley and I am proud to be a National Beef Ambassador representing the Golden State of California. I am currently in my third year at California State University, Chico where I am double majoring in agriculture and graphic design. I also have a part-time job at the Copy Center in Red Bluff, CA where I have learned much more than great graphic design skills. Customer relations, efficient work flow, and time management are skills that I’ve found useful outside of the print realm. When I’m not busy working and studying, I enjoy volunteering as a project leader in the 4-H program, empowering younger members in a variety of projects and skills. I also enjoy playing my soul out in the Red Bluff Community Band, where I either play clarinet or percussion instruments.

I’ve found that there’s a lot of truth behind the age old saying, “A picture says a 1,000 words.”  My hopes are to apply my skills in graphic design and my passion for the agriculture industry to help share our story. Being a National Beef Ambassador is an honor and a privilege. Whether I am speaking to consumers directly or designing the next brochure, I am determined to spread the good word about our wonderful industry.

Beth Wood, WY

Hi there! My name is Beth Wood. My parents are Fred and June Wood from Pine Bluffs, Wyoming. I am currently a senior at Pine Bluffs High School where I am involved in many different activities. I am currently serving as my FFA chapter President and plan to run for a state office this spring. I am also a member of the National Honor Society where I am serving as Secretary, Student council as a representative, and Spanish club. This is my tenth year in 4-H. I was crowned Laramie County Fairest of the Fair Lady-in-Waiting. I am very proud of my small town roots and am pleased to represent the cattle producers of Wyoming. After graduation I plan to attend the Laramie County Community College and Obtain an Associates Degree. I plan to continue my education in veterinary medicine. My passion for Agriculture and the beef industry has presented me with an amazing opportunity to be a member of the National Beef Ambassador Team. I look forward to promoting not only a safe nutrient rich food that tastes good but also the very best of the agricultural lifestyle.
 

Leticia Varelas, NM

Hi!  My name is Leticia Varelas and I am the National Beef Ambassador from New Mexico.  Agriculture has been a part of my life since I was little.  From mending fences in the desert summer heat, to shipping in the fall, it is something that has shaped me into the person I am today.  My parents, Catarino and Lupe Varelas, have raised me and my brother, Gabriel, with a love for the land and the animals that live on it.  I know that I would not be the person I am today if it weren’t for my family, my faith in God, and the experiences in high school I had in 4-H and FFA.
             I am sophomore at New Mexico State University where I am majoring in Agriculture Business and Economics.  As a student, I am active in Block and Bridle, Collegiate Farm Bureau, and serve as an Ambassador for the College of Agriculture and Home Economics.  As far as my career plans go, I want to work as part of the driving force that makes our industry run.  I am looking forward to this coming year, where I will get to serve as a National Beef Ambassador promoting, protecting, and preserving the beef industry and those who are a part of it.  I am proud to be associated with such a great group of people.