Outstanding Alumni Award 2024: Don Bennink '63
Bio
A native of Chautauqua County, New York, Don Bennink began milking cows in junior high school and would continue doing so until his graduation from Cornell in 1963, upon which he earned a law degree from Cleveland Marshall University and began building a law practice. However, he never lost his love for the dairy industry and in 1980 relocated to Bell, Florida, to found North Florida Holsteins, now one of the largest dairy operations in the state.
Don Bennink is known internationally for his research in animal genetics and reproduction, specifically in the Holstein breed, for which he has developed a system of genetic selection and pioneered the use of genomic testing.
Besides serving as a center of innovation, North Florida Holsteins became a field laboratory for the University of Florida’s College of Veterinary Medicine and functioned as a core partner for Ohio State University’s international student internship program. After more than 40 years of operation, Don recently sold the dairy to new owners, who will carry on the business for future generations. He also has been a longtime volunteer and advisor for the CALS Department of Animal Science.
Don’s leadership roles in the dairy industry include serving on the board of directors of the Upper Florida Milk Producers, the Florida Dairy Farmers and Southeast Milk. In addition, he served as SMI trucking chairman for more than 25 years and as Florida Dairy Farmers president for two years. Among his many honors include induction into the Florida 4-H Hall of Fame, the Florida Agricultural Hall of Fame and being recognized this September with the World Dairy Expo’s highest honor, Dairyman of the Year.