WCMA Launches Inaugural Member Impact Awards to Spotlight Leading Dairy Organizations; John Umhoefer and Sara Schmidt Comment

In an exciting new step to celebrate the organizations driving the dairy industry forward, Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association (WCMA) proudly announces its first-ever Member Impact Awards. These recognitions will spotlight WCMA members empowering their employees, communities, and the entire dairy industry. Nominations are open through August 15, 2025, and self-nominations are accepted.

"These Member Impact Awards build on our longstanding commitment to highlighting industry excellence,” said John Umhoefer, WCMA Executive Director, in a recent press release. “For decades, we’ve recognized individual industry professionals for their outstanding contributions to dairy processing. We're thrilled to add to that tradition by honoring organizations that are leading dairy’s future.”

The WCMA Member Impact Awards celebrate excellence in four key categories:

• WCMA Advocate of the Year: Honoring organizations that have significantly advanced the dairy industry through legislative advocacy, education, or public influence.
• WCMA Employer of the Year: Recognizing organizations that excel in human resources and workplace safety, fostering inclusive and supportive work environments.
• WCMA Sustainable Stewardship Award: Celebrating organizations demonstrating outstanding efforts in environmental stewardship and sustainability.
• WCMA Culture of Excellence Award: Acknowledging organizations dedicated to social responsibility and community engagement.

“These awards are designed to elevate WCMA member businesses that are setting a new standard for what it means to lead in dairy processing. They’re the trailblazers – and we believe their stories deserve the spotlight,” added Sara Schmidt, WCMA Membership Director.

All WCMA members in good standing are eligible. The WCMA Membership Committee will review nominee submissions, and the WCMA Board of Directors will approve final honorees. Award winners will be celebrated at WCMA’s Annual Member Meeting & Awards Ceremony in October 2025.

To nominate a deserving organization, download the application packet at WisCheeseMakers.org/member-impact-awards and submit completed materials via email to [email protected] by August 15, 2025. For questions, please contact Sara Schmidt at [email protected] or 608-673-5269.