Northeast Dairy Management Conference

Nearly 350 dairy producers and industry professionals from across the Northeast gathered in East Syracuse, NY last week for two days of collaboration, learning and forward-looking discussions. Attendees engaged in sessions focused on leadership development, next-generation workforce strategies, sustainable growth and innovative solutions to current industry challenges. Attendees represented dairy farms, industry advisors and partners, suppliers, consultants, and university and extensions professionals. 

“This conference occurs at a time of generational investment by our dairy farmers and dairy processors in growing their businesses. Our speakers provided key insights into leadership and creating culture within agricultural businesses that will help position them for future success,” said Tom Overton, Cornell CALS PRO-DAIRY Director.

The biennial event delivered on its theme, “Shaping tomorrow’s dairy: Leadership, innovation and stewardship. Highlights included leadership keynotes from Jason A. Hunt and Matt Booth, inspiring presentations related to growing a dairy business and culture, and interactive panels featuring leading dairy producers and researchers.

"As New York’s dairy industry enters an exciting period of significant investment in processing capacity, the conference provided an important opportunity for dairy leaders to come together, exchange ideas, and hear the latest research to help farms succeed," said Allyson Jones-Brimmer, NEDPA Executive Director. "Speakers shared their expertise in workforce development and environmental stewardship. Farmers and agribusiness professionals in the audience left with actionable ideas to strengthen their businesses and continue supporting food security for New York families."

Awards Presented

The conference also featured award presentations recognizing professionals for their dedication, leadership and commitment to the New York dairy industry. 

Janice Barrett was presented the Friend of NEDPA award at the conference. This award recognizes an extraordinary industry partner whose work has positively impacted New York’s dairy industry. The Dick Popp Memorial Leadership Award was presented to Tonya Van Slyke. This award is given to an individual who demonstrates a passion and vision for the dairy industry. Both individuals were instrumental in building NEDPA and creating a foundation for the organization to be a well-recognized resource and voice for New York dairy farmers.

Six students from Cornell University received awards from the Richard Popp Scholarship Fund: Brett Blesy, Springville, NY; Charlie Haynes, Calais, VT; Carter Hoffman, Chelsea, VT; Dan Merrell, Wolcott, NY; David Merrell, Wolcott, NY; and Miranda Nickerson, Corry, PA. This fund was established by friends, families, and colleagues of Dick Popp and honors senior undergraduate students in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.