Submit Your PA Dairy Award Nominations by November 17

By Blake Jackson

Nominations are now open for the annual Pennsylvania Dairy Industry Award program, with a deadline of November 17. Each year, these awards honor dairy producers and industry professionals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, service, and innovation.

The program, which includes three award categories, is sponsored by the Pennsylvania Dairymen’s Association, the Professional Dairy Managers of Pennsylvania, and the Center for Dairy Excellence.

“As we near the end of 2025, take a moment to reflect on the dairy producers and industry professionals you interact with on a daily basis. Is there someone you know who provides outstanding leadership, service and innovation to the PA dairy industry?” said Emily Barge, Communications and Marketing Manager at the Center for Dairy Excellence.

“Consider nominating them by November 17 to help shine a light on the contributions they’re making to our industry. The nomination process is simple and shouldn’t take more than a few minutes of your time.”

These awards are presented annually to Pennsylvania residents, with recipients to be recognized at the Pennsylvania Dairy Summit in February 2026.

The three award categories include:

• Pennsylvania Distinguished Dairy Producer Award, which honors dairy producers or farm operations that demonstrate exceptional management practices and leadership within the dairy community.
• The Pennsylvania Dairy Service Award, which acknowledges individuals who have made significant contributions to advancing Pennsylvania’s dairy industry and supporting local dairy farms.
• Pennsylvania Dairy Innovator Award, which celebrates individuals or businesses driving innovation in the state’s dairy sector, whether through market advancements or creative on-farm practices.

Nominations can be submitted at www.centerfordairyexcellence.org/awards. All applications must be received by November 17, 2025, and include a completed nomination form and one letter of support explaining the candidate’s qualifications.

Nominees will be notified by late November, with additional information due in December. Award winners will be announced in January 2026. Candidates remain eligible for three years after submission, though once honored, they are ineligible for other categories for two years.

For more details, contact Emily Barge at 717-788-0300 or ebarge@centerfordairyexcellence.org.

Photo Credit: center-for-dairy-excellence