- Cologne, MN
Alyssa O’Sullivan
Livestock Judge, Showman, & New Mom
My husband and I primarily help with the show cattle. We just welcomed our first kiddo, so we’re looking forward to the years ahead where he is able to show cattle as well. We travel around the state, and even some shows around the country, with very close friends of ours and help with their show string as well. Raising beef cattle is something that my husband and I truly enjoy and are passionate about, and we can’t wait to share that with our son. I work for the Minnesota State Fair Foundation as the Annual Giving and Communications Coordinator. I’m involved in a handful of other organizations, such as helping with the MLBA 4-H Purple Ribbon Auction at the Minnesota State Fair, and I also judge livestock shows around the state.
Do you farm with family?
Yes! My husband and I, along with his family, raise beef cattle.
What are your hobbies?
Reading, spending time with family, crocheting, going to cattle shows
Why is sharing information about agriculture and farming important to you?
Sharing information about agriculture is so important to me because people are disconnected from where their food comes from. There is so much information out there to look through, and having a trustworthy farmer to connect with to ask your questions to is key. Sharing our little corner of what we do with those who may never experience is something that makes it so fun. We really enjoy teaching others about cattle, why we raise them, what it’s actually like to exhibit livestock and more. What I want people to know about agriculture is that farmers care greatly about their crops and livestock. We want to raise and grow products that are sustainable and healthy, as ultimately these products are feeding and nourishing us and our families as well. Find a connection to a resource you trust, and lean on them for information! Social media doesn’t always tell the whole story.
Tell us a quick story from the farm.
One of the things that I love the most about what we do is the connections that we have made along the way. The folks we show cattle with are family to us. Some of our fondest memories are spent in the barns fitting cattle and showing with them.
WE ARE COMMONGROUND –
