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2026 MDGA Board of Directors Candidates

This year, we have three, three-year term seats open for 2027. They are those held by Directors Shellie Gilbertson, Rustianna Mechura, and Cathy Prodoehl. We thank these women for the time and dedication they offered to this organization!

Please scroll through the responses submitted by each candidate to familiarize yourself with them and their strengths. When done, you can click the link at the bottom of the page to be taken directly to the 2026 ballot.

Meet the Candidates!

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Jason Benson

Tell us about yourself:

One of my greatest strengths is that I have empathy for others needs and think about the good of the membership above all else. I’ve always been supportive of youth and youth education as they are the future of our industry.

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Do you currently raise goats? Which breeds?

Yes. We have Alpines, Saanens, Toggenburgs, Sables, Grades and a token Nubian.

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In what ways do you participate in the dairy goat industry?

I am a commercial producer (since 2014) and milk around 80 dairy goats. Our milk is shipped to Quality Dairy Goat Cooperative (LaClare).

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Do you participate in any herd improvement programs?

We participate in Linear Appraisal, milk testing and production awards. We show fairly regularly at club show around MN/WI including both state fairs and for the last two years at the ADGA National Show.

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What hobbies or other interests do you have?

Outside of the goats, I enjoy tractor pulling and the Wisconsin holiday of deer hunting.  I enjoy traveling with Heidi when she drags me away.

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Any other information that has not been mentioned yet?
No. Thank you for this opportunity to run as a board candidate!
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Noah Coudron

Tell us about yourself:

I feel that my best qualities are that I am hard working, team player, and a forward-thinking person. Growing up on my family's farm has taught me the value of hard work and that is a skill that I will take with me into my career. I would also consider myself to be a team player. I believe in the value of receiving feedback from others to accomplish a common goal.

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Do you currently raise goats? Which breeds?

In 2016, I got my first goat. Since then, I have only gotten more involved in the dairy goat industry. I have shown goats through 4-H at the county and state level. I have also shown at regional and national shows through the American dairy goat association. I currently raise Saanens, Lamanchas, and recorded grades.

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In what ways do you participate in the dairy goat industry?

I participate in the dairy goat industry by being a producer and breeder. I currently raise a small show herd of dairy goats where I focus on breeding for consistent type and milk production.

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Do you participate in any herd improvement programs?

My herd just got appraised this past summer and we have a milk test done once a month. I believe in the important of record keeping production to make good management decisions. Appraisal helps show progress and areas of excellence and need for improvement.

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What hobbies or other interests do you have?

Besides being heavily involved in the dairy goat industry, my hobbies also include enjoying working on my family's farm and being involved in Farmhouse Fraternity and participating in their volunteer activities.

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Any other information that has not been mentioned yet?

Showmanship has always been something that has been important to me. Even without the highest quality animals, showmanship is a place that everyone has the equal opportunity to place well and recognized for their work. I pride myself on the fact that I have learned so much about showmanship and now appreciate having the opportunity to share my knowledge with them.

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Yvette Peters-Hutchins

Tell us about yourself:

I believe I would be a strong candidate for the Minnesota Dairy Goat Association because I’m direct, approachable, and not afraid to tackle difficult conversations head-on. I believe in addressing conflict openly and respectfully, finding solutions, and keeping things moving forward. I’m organized, prepared, and like to make sure the details are taken care of. I also bring a sense of humor and the ability to keep things light when needed, because getting things done is important, but enjoying the people you work with matters, too!

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Do you currently raise goats? Which breeds?

I breed Nigerian Dwarf goats because I like spice and competition.

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In what ways do you participate in the dairy goat industry?

I have been breeding Nigerian Dwarf goats since 2016.

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Do you participate in any herd improvement programs?

Our herd is apart of the ADGA performance programs.

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What hobbies or other interests do you have?

In addition to a herd of 30 goats, I also raise French Black Copper Marans and  Olive egger chickens, Giant Flemish rabbits, and own 4 horses. You can find me outside almost every day whether in a pasture, barn, pool or sauna depending on weather.

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Any other information that has not been mentioned yet?

​Like most shepherds, goats are my life. I couldn’t imagine a life without them.

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Jessica Thompson

Tell us about yourself:

I enjoy being involved in the dairy goat community and would love the opportunity to contribute to the association. As a former Agricultural Education instructor and current small business owner, I feel my strengths include organization, communication, and a willingness to help wherever needed. I enjoy working with others, sharing ideas, and learning from those with different experiences.

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Do you currently raise goats? Which breeds?

Yes, we raise Nubians.

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In what ways do you participate in the dairy goat industry?

We raise goats and are producers.

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Do you participate in any herd improvement programs?

We don't currently participate in any herd improvement programs. However, as we continue to grow and establish our herd, we look forward to participating in both linear appraisal and milk testing as the opportunity arises.

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What hobbies or other interests do you have?

As a mom to 3 active kids, I enjoy supporting local organizations and events, such as our local 4-H Goat Project Development Committee, school volunteer, and jumping in with both feet to anything where a hand is needed.

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Any other information that has not been mentioned yet?

I have always had a passion for agriculture and youth involvement. As we grow in the dairy goat industry, I've enjoyed building relationships and learning from others. I look forward to becoming more involved and giving back to the community that has so generously shared its knowledge and support with us.

Voting Opens November 2, 2026 and closes December 1, 2026.

If you are a member in good standing, please cast your vote by clicking here

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