MITCHELL, SD (Mitchell Now) — Britni Ross of Philip was named the 2026 Dakotafest Woman Farmer/Rancher of the Year on Thursday, Aug. 20, during the Women in Ag event at Dakotafest in Mitchell.
Ross, a rancher and school business administrator with the Haakon School District, was selected from five finalists for the seventh annual award. The other finalists were Ashley Schwader of Howard, Aubriauna Wiest of Herreid, Whitney Mitchell of Tulare and Karen Mutschler of Eureka, according to the 2026 Dakotafest program.
The award recognizes South Dakota women whose contributions extend across agriculture, family and their communities. Organizers say women in agriculture frequently balance multiple roles, from raising crops and livestock to raising families, volunteering and working careers away from the farm or ranch.
Ross’ recognition highlights that wide-ranging commitment. Her involvement also extends beyond her ranch and school district. She is a member of the current South Dakota Agricultural and Rural Leadership class, according to SDARL.
The Woman Farmer/Rancher of the Year is determined through a nomination and judging process. Nominations are accepted for approximately two months before nominees are presented anonymously to judges. Combined scores determine the five finalists, with the highest-scoring nomination receiving the award.
The honor was first awarded during the virtual Dakotafest event in 2020 and has been presented annually since.
Dakotafest began in Mitchell in 1996 and now brings together more than 400 exhibitors showcasing agricultural products, services and technology.
Nominations for the 2027 Woman Farmer/Rancher of the Year are expected to open in late March at Dakotafest. The eighth annual winner will be recognized Aug. 19, 2027, at Dakotafest in Mitchell.