Arizona Agriculture Connection-Meet our Grassroots Engagement Intern!

Welcome back, Arizona Aggies, to another special edition of the Arizona Agriculture Connection! This week, we’re excited to introduce our new grassroots engagement intern, Meika Lauppe. Join us as we get to know Meika, her background, her passions, and what she hopes to bring to Arizona’s agricultural community.

Meika hails from Northern California, where she grew up surrounded by the rhythms of farm life. Her journey to Arizona was inspired by a unique blend of passions: agriculture and softball. Now a member of the Arizona State softball team and a student pursuing a degree in agricultural business, Meika is thrilled to combine her love for sports with her commitment to the ag industry.

As a pitcher for the Arizona State softball team, Meika brings focus, determination, and teamwork to the field. She’s excited about the upcoming season, especially with the addition of talented new transfers and a strong pitching staff. Meika’s role requires intense concentration, but she’s ready to take on the challenge—both on the field and in her new internship.

Meika’s passion for agriculture runs deep. Growing up on a rice and hay farm, she witnessed firsthand the dedication and hard work required to sustain a family business. The encroachment of development on farmland in California sparked her interest in conservation and inspired her to take action.

At just 18, Meika earned her real estate license with a mission: to help facilitate land sales that prioritize the conservation of farm ground. She’s committed to ensuring that agricultural land remains protected and productive for future generations.

When she’s not studying or pitching, Meika loves to unwind with a good book or enjoy water sports on the Sacramento River, which runs right behind her family’s farm. Her love for reading is legendary—so much so that her parents would sometimes take away her books instead of her phone!

For Meika, agriculture is more than an industry—it’s a way of life that instills a strong work ethic and a sense of legacy. She believes everyone can learn from the dedication of farmers and the value of hard work. Most importantly, she reminds us that agriculture feeds the world and that understanding where our food comes from is essential.

Meika encourages everyone to get involved and informed about their food sources. Her advice?

Buy local, get to know your growers, and appreciate the effort that goes into every meal.

Supporting local agriculture not only strengthens communities but also ensures a sustainable future for all.

During her time with the Farm Bureau, Meika is eager to immerse herself in Arizona’s diverse agricultural landscape. She looks forward to connecting with local farmers, learning from their experiences, and contributing to the community in meaningful ways.

We’re thrilled to welcome Meika Lauppe to the Arizona Agriculture Connection team. Her passion, experience, and enthusiasm are sure to make a positive impact. Stay tuned for more episodes as we continue to explore the people and stories that shape Arizona agriculture.

Thank you for joining us for this special intern spotlight. See you next week for more insights and inspiration from the world of Arizona agriculture!