By Blake Jackson
If you know a young individual between the ages of 18 and 30 who has shown outstanding dedication to Pennsylvania’s dairy industry, consider nominating them for the Jan Harding Ruslavage Memorial Service & Promotion Award. Nominations are being accepted through August 4, 2025.
This award was established in 2024 in memory of Janet Harding Ruslavage to honor her lifelong contributions to Pennsylvania’s dairy community.
The recognition aims to celebrate young individuals who are making a meaningful impact on the future of the dairy industry through service and promotional efforts.
The recipient will receive a $3,000 cash award and be honored at the annual Pennsylvania Dairy Princess State Pageant in September.
“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 recognizing exemplary service and promotion to the industry was established with donations from many folks across the industry,” said Jeff Harding on behalf of the Harding family.
To be eligible, nominees must be Pennsylvania residents between the ages of 18 and 30, have graduated from high school, and be actively pursuing a career in or related to the dairy industry.
Ideal candidates will embody qualities such as a servant leadership attitude, integrity, a strong work ethic, and a passion for dairy. Their involvement could include leadership roles in dairy service or breed organizations, community promotion of dairy, youth mentorship, or contributing to dairy research and education.
Nominations can be submitted by the individual or by someone who wishes to recognize their contributions. Up to three letters of support may be included.
To nominate someone, visit www.centerfordairyexcellence.org/janet-harding-ruslavage-award. For more information or questions, contact Jayne Sebright at jsebright@centerfordairyexcellence.org or call 717-346-0849.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-artistgndphotography
Categories: Pennsylvania, Livestock, Dairy Cattle