GROWING UP AS A FIFTH-GENERATION BEEF PRODUCER FROM LINCOLN NEBRASKA, ALLISON WALBRECHT IS PAIRING HER BACKGROUND WITH AN INTEREST IN POLICY AND LEADERSHIP.
Hometown: Lincoln, Nebraska
Major: Animal Science on the Business and Communications Track
Minor(s): Agribusiness, Engler Entrepreneurship, Krutzstinger Beef Industry Scholars, Yeutter Trade Fellowship
Anticipated date of graduation: May 2026
Why did you decide to come to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and what drew you to the Krtustinger Beef Industry Scholars Program?
Originally, I wasn’t sure about coming to UNL since it’s so close to home, but there’s no place like Nebraska” is true, and I quickly realized I couldn’t get a better education anywhere else. Growing up as a fifth-generation beef producer, I’ve always known I wanted to stay in the industry, which made the Krutsinger Beef Industry Scholars Program a natural fit. Looking back, choosing UNL and this program has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
What has been your favorite experience in the Beef Scholars program so far?
Two years ago, I was able to study abroad in New Zealand and many students from various cohorts of Beef Scholars joined me. I loved getting to focus on the international beef industry alongside them and come home with not only a greater appreciation not only for cattle but also for the people in this program.
How has the Beef Scholars program helped you prepare for a career in the beef industry?
Through the Beef Scholars program, I have had the opportunity to focus on real-world issues facing the beef industry and work with other future leaders to understand them and explore possible solutions. With the beef industry being so vast, this has exposed me to different sectors that I originally hadn’t considered, showing me the bigger picture and pushing me to think of how I want to be involved.
What has been your favorite class or learning opportunity connected to beef, and why?
My favorite class so far has been 381, where we got to learn more about available government programs that are designed to help and protect producers. This again was real-world learning that I was able to take home to my own operation.
Can you share a memorable activity, trip, or connection from Beef Scholars (e.g., tours, industry visits, networking)?
After my sophomore year, my cohort and I were able to go on a beef tour through Nebraska and Colorado. It was a lot of fun to get to spend a week with all of them learning about operations, representing all different perspectives of the industry.
What are your plans post-graduation, and how do you see the Beef Scholars program playing a role in your future?
After graduation, I’m excited to move to Washington, D.C., and work on agricultural policy on Capitol Hill. Being part of the Beef Scholars program has given me a deeper understanding of the beef industry and helped me see it from multiple perspectives, which has prepared me to be a stronger advocate. The program has also given me the chance to connect with so many future and current leaders in the industry, building relationships that I know will continue to push me forward.
Outside of school and Beef Scholars, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Outside of school and Beef Scholars, I enjoy working for Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen and spending time with friends and family.
What scholarships or support have you received that have helped you during your time at UNL?
Nebraska Cattlemen Beef State Scholarship, Susan Buffett Scholarship, UNL Animal Science Inspire Your Future Scholarship, UCARE Undergraduate Research Grant, UNL Animal Science Ambassador Scholarship.
