Advocacy Through Education - Mackenzie Serrano

Hi everyone! My name is Mackenzie Serrano, and I proudly call Roundup, Montana, home. I grew up deeply rooted in agriculture and can't imagine a life outside of it. These days, I serve as the Marketing Manager for Lakeland Feed & Supply, where I have the privilege of working with producers and dealers across the state to support their livestock operations and rural communities. Alongside Lakeland Feed & Supply, I attend the University of Idaho, studying Agricultural Education and Animal Science. My ultimate passion lies in educating everyone I meet about agriculture, from youth just getting started in 4-H and FFA to consumers who want to better understand where their food comes from. Agriculture has shaped who I am from my earliest days in the show ring as a young 4-H member to where I stand today, and I'm driven to give back to the industry that raised me.

I joined the ACE program because I believe leadership and advocacy go hand-in-hand when it comes to protecting and promoting Montana agriculture. I was recruited by Montana Farm Bureau employee Rikki Swant, who encouraged me to get involved after recognizing my passion for communication and community leadership. As someone who bridges both the production and business sides of the industry, I wanted to strengthen my ability to communicate effectively with consumers, legislators, and community partners. ACE offers an incredible opportunity to connect with like-minded agricultural leaders who are equally committed to ensuring that rural voices are heard.

After completing ACE, I hope to take a more active leadership role within my county Farm Bureau, helping coordinate educational events, producer panels, and youth engagement opportunities. I also plan to continue fostering strong relationships between local businesses and producers to keep our rural economies thriving. Long-term, I'd like to serve on a state-level committee to further Montana Farm Bureau's mission of advocating for agriculture and strengthening our communities.

One of the most pressing issues facing agriculture today is rural workforce development, ensuring that the next generation of producers, ag teachers, and agribusiness professionals have the support and opportunities they need to stay in Montana. ACE equips participants with communication and advocacy skills that can help influence policies and programs addressing this challenge. By effectively sharing real stories and data, I hope to help decision makers understand the importance of investing in the future of rural communities.

I plan to use the communication and advocacy skills from ACE to create outreach efforts that connect urban and rural audiences, whether that's through farm tours, social media education, in my future classroom, or community events. Within my County Farm Bureau, I want to help lead conversations that turn ideas into action, using ACE strategies to engage members and inspire others to step into leadership roles.

Montana agriculture is built on tradition, but our future depends on our ability to adapt and lead. Developing leadership and advocacy skills ensures that rural voices remain strong in policy, education, and public understanding. When farmers and ranchers can confidently share their stories and perspectives, we not only protect our livelihoods but also shape the future of agriculture for generations to come.