We’re excited to introduce this year’s board nominees. Each nominee brings a unique set of skills, experiences, and perspectives that help strengthen our organization and guide our future. Below, you’ll find a photo and brief bio for each candidate, highlighting their background, involvement, and the passion they bring to our mission.
Kate (Spadgenske) Minten grew up on Spadgenske Dairy near Menahga, Minnesota, and returned to work on the family farm after graduating college. Her father, Mark, and uncle, Mike, began dairy farming in 1994 with 60 cows in a rented barn. Today, Spadgenske Dairy has grown to a 300-cow operation with a double-13 parallel parlor while farming about 1,000 acres.
Kate works alongside her father, uncle, two younger brothers, and farm employees. She is responsible for raising calves from birth to weaning and also works part time as a sales representative in the feed division of the local cooperative. In addition, Kate creates videos and manages content for the farm’s social media pages, helping promote the dairy industry by sharing day-to-day life on the farm. She stays involved in the daily work of the family farm and at the local cooperative, keeping her connected to other farmers and allowing her to advocate for the dairy industry.
My name is Tom Walsh, and I am a dairy farmer from De Graff, Minnesota. It has been a privilege to serve on the Minnesota Milk Board and represent my fellow dairy producers. I am a firm believer in this organization and the progress we’ve made, though I recognize there is much more work to do.
Our primary mission at Minnesota Milk is to advocate for our industry in St. Paul. Whether we are championing legislation that supports our farms or defending against policies that could harm our livelihoods, it is essential that dairy farmers have a seat at the table. I would be honored to continue working on your behalf to ensure our voices are heard in the Capitol.
Jacob Twohey is a graduate of the University of Minnesota, where he earned a degree in Animal Science. He operates a dairy farm outside of Stewartville, Minnesota, working alongside his dad and brother in a family-run operation. Twohey Dairy milks 300 Holstein cows using DeLaval V300 robotic milking systems, allowing the farm to focus on efficiency, animal care, and long-term sustainability. In addition to the dairy, the family farms approximately 1,400 acres of corn, soybeans, alfalfa, peas, and oats, supporting both the herd and overall farm operation.
For our Minnesota Milk voting members, you will receive your official ballot in the mail soon.
Ballots may be submitted by email to lucas@mnmilk.org or mailed to:
Thank you for taking the time to participate in this important process and for helping shape the future leadership of Minnesota Milk!