By Blake Jackson
Cara Trotter Itle, field representative and FARM Program inspector for United Dairy, has been named the 2025 recipient of the Janet Harding Ruslavage Memorial Service & Promotion Award.
Established in 2024, the award honors the legacy of Janet Harding Ruslavage by recognizing individuals aged 18 to 30 who demonstrate outstanding service to and promotion of Pennsylvania’s dairy industry.
“My mom was a promoter for dairy all of her life, and she was a role model for many young ladies over the years. She felt promotion and service to the industry was pretty important, and we are proud that this award was established with donations from many individuals across the industry to recognize exemplary service and promotion to the industry,” said Jeff Harding on behalf of the Harding family.
“We are proud to present this award to Cara. She is extremely active in the dairy industry. Along with working as a field representative and FARM Program inspector for United Dairy, Cara volunteers countless hours to advocate for and promote the Guernsey breed, Golden Guernsey Milk, and the broader dairy industry,” said Judy Ligo, who presented the award alongside her brother Jeff.
Itle, who grew up on her family’s farm in Enon Valley, Lawrence County, now lives in Loretto, Cambria County, with her husband Simon and their three daughters.
Itle also serves as secretary and acting treasurer for Naturally Golden Family Farms, a cooperative that markets Guernsey milk, cheese curds, and yogurt. In her role, she manages invoicing, sales, and marketing for the cooperative.
“Receiving the Jan Harding Memorial Award is an incredible honor that deeply humbles me. To be recognized in the spirit of someone who gave so much with quiet strength and compassion means more than words can express,” Itle shared.
“I hope to carry forward Jan’s legacy by continuing to lead with integrity, kindness, and a commitment to community. I also want to thank my family for their unwavering support in everything I do your encouragement means the world to me.”
Itle has led initiatives such as the first American Guernsey Association Golden Guernsey Committee dairy product competition, created a Facebook group for producers, and represented Naturally Golden Family Farms in regional contests. Itle received a $3,000 cash award at the Pennsylvania Dairy Princess State Pageant in September.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-stockseller_ukr
Categories: Pennsylvania, Livestock, Dairy Cattle