The president of the Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center near Manitowoc has been honored by the Professional Dairy Producers of Wisconsin with its first-ever Dean Strauss Leadership Award. Julie Maurer, who is also co-owner of Soaring Eagle Dairy in Newton, was recognized during the PDPW Business Conference last week in Wisconsin Dells.
On the family farm, Julie is responsible for nutrient management, human resources and employee management, the milking parlor and the farm's heifer program at the Heifer Authority in Colorado. She also serves on the board of directors for Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin.
"Julie is a tremendous example of a passionate rural leader who has spearheaded a number of programs and projects to support the dairy industry and her community," said PDPW Director Shelly Mayer.
The award was established by the PDPW board of directors in honor of Dean Strauss, a Wisconsin dairy farmer and dairy industry leader who passed away in 2019. He was the owner of Majestic Crossing Dairy and active in a number of dairy organizations and leadership boards, including a past president and past board member of PDPW.
"Dean was an inspirational young leader--a role model for our dairy community and a friend to all," Mayer said. "He worked tirelessly to promote the dairy industry and was passionate about providing continuing education opportunities for all dairy producers."
Strauss's wife, brother and parents co-presented the award.
Categories: Wisconsin, Livestock, Dairy Cattle