Jeri Cunningham Hanson 1972

Photos of Jeri, showing her dairy cattle at the Brown County Fair.

Jeri Cunningham Hanson 1972


Parents: Russell & Louise Cunningham, Sleepy Eye MN

Currently: Comfrey MN 56019

When asked about her favorite promotion, Jeri commented, “It’s been 38 years, I really don’t “remember” much. I can only recall a couple of events, the two coronations (regional and local) and the Hanska Parade. It was very hot the day of the South Central Dairy Days, for regional coronation. It was hosted in Lewisville with so many dairy princesses from each county in the region. There were so many more dairy farms back then.” Currently Jeri lives on a farm two miles northwest of Comfrey with her husband Jim. They raise corn, soybeans, and oats and have a Registered Hereford Cow/Calf operation. They have 2 girls Jody and Jamie, who have shown their cattle at several shows each year, locally, regionally, and nationally. These shows are considered family vacations by the Hanson family. Jim and Jeri are also busy with various organizations: church board, Redwood Area Cattleman’s Association, REA Board, Minnesota Hereford Breeder’s Association, Brown County 4-H, and they volunteer at school whenever needed. Jeri’s two sons, Adam (New Ulm) and Aaron (New Prague) are also active. To current princesses Jeri says, “Be proud of who you are and the industry you represent! Believe in yourself and what you are promoting! Know the facts! It’s very important when speaking with anyone, especially activist groups.” Currently Jeri’s family promotes the dairy industry by consuming lots of milk, cheese, butter and ice cream. Jeri states that she only buys REAL dairy products and not fake. Also in any conversation, where appropriate, Jeri feels comfortable stating, “There are no harder working, dedicated people than the dairy farmers. I truly believe that, having grown up on a diary farm and working with so many great farmers as a representative with DHIA.” Jeri also shares that to this day she uses the original cookbook which was given to the contestants at the regional contest in Lewisville and she notes that the length of the dresses during the 70’s are very similar to that on the length today!

Jeri Cunningham Hanson's home farm.