Success with a Virtual Dairy Science Banquet
Ames, IA. – On Sunday, March 14th, the Dairy Science Club at Iowa State University hosted the annual Dairy Science Banquet. Animal science faculty, club members, and alumni are invited each year to recognize departmental and club success. The banquet was held over Zoom Webinar and had over 75 attendees. The participants were able to enjoy hearing results of various awards and scholarships for Dairy Science Club members and Dairy Science majors.
The annual silent auction was held in a new format. This year, bidders were able to view and bid on a display of items on a virtual platform. Even with the new layout, the Dairy Science Club saw tremendous success, raising almost triple the usual amount of funds. The club collected over $2,900 thanks to the generous companies who donated items and those who participated in the online auction.
Sherry Newell of Avon, Minnesota was named the Distinguished Graduate. The Dairy Science Club Distinguished Graduate Award was first given in 1978, typically honoring an Iowa State graduate not involved directly in production dairy. However, this individual has had a major impact on the Dairy Science Club, Iowa State, or the dairy industry through their career activities. Newell spent a quarter century working for Midwest Dairy Association and its predecessor organizations. During that time, she trained hundreds of dairy farmers, industry partners, and youth across the Midwest on how to communicate successfully with consumers.
Lee Maassen of Maurice, Iowa was named the Honorary Member. This award was first given out in 1925 to honor someone involved in dairy for their service to our club or industry. It is often said by dairy farmers to be one of the most prestigious recognitions for those in the Iowa dairy industry. Maassen farms alongside his three sons on the family farm which began in 1946. Today, the family milks around 1,800 head. Maassen has been an advocate for the Iowa dairy industry since his times in 4-H and FFA. Maassen also serves as a devoted leader for the community and dairy industry, including serving on the boards of Midwest Dairy, Iowa State Dairy Association, and National DHIA.
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Contact: Jessica Schmitt, Chair
Banquet Committee
Dairy Science Club at Iowa State University
563.379.4414