By Blake Jackson
The Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association (WCMA) celebrated a tremendous achievement at the 2024 Novonesis Championship Cheese Auction, raising a record-breaking $423,480. This surpasses the previous record by a significant margin, demonstrating the dairy processing industry's unwavering commitment to its future.
These funds will directly benefit various initiatives that nurture the next generation of dairy professionals. Scholarships like the Mike Dean and Cheese Industry Supplier Student Scholarships, offered by the WCMA, will empower aspiring individuals to pursue careers in cheesemaking and related fields.
The auction proceeds will also fuel vital training programs for dairy manufacturers and suppliers, ensuring they possess the latest knowledge and skills. Additionally, donations will continue to support the development of world-class facilities like the Center for Dairy Research at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and dairy pilot plants at other universities.
WCMA has consistently invested in enhancing the World and U.S. Championship Cheese Contests and the Collegiate Dairy Products Evaluation Contest. Auction funds play a crucial role in these initiatives, allowing them to continuously improve and expand their reach.
The record-breaking auction wouldn't have been possible without the generous participation of winning bidders. WCMA extends its sincere gratitude to companies like Custom Fabricating & Repair, Milk Specialties Global, and Emmi Roth, among others.
Thanks to the overwhelming support from the industry, the WCMA has now surpassed $1.3 million in total investments dedicated to the future of dairy processing. This commitment ensures a thriving and innovative industry for generations to come.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-yuriys
Categories: Wisconsin, Livestock, Dairy Cattle