About Raising the Steaks
Michelle Wiggley
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.
Leticia Varelas
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.
