The Guest of Honor is given to an active contemporary dairy leader for outstanding accomplishments and contributions to the dairy industry. It has been awarded every year since 1949 when Dean H. Kildee was named the first Guest of Honor.

Also each year, several living or deceased dairy leaders are honored as Pioneers by National Dairy Shrine for their service and leadership in the dairy industry.

Additionally, the Distinguished Dairy Cattle Breeder recognizes active, progressive dairy producers who, through their expertise in managing a dairy herd based upon sound genetics and business principles, serve as a model of success for fellow dairy producers throughout the country.

Portraits and accomplishments of all award honorees are on permanent display in the National Dairy Hall of Fame at the National Dairy Shrine Museum in Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin.

Nominations or applications must be submitted on official forms by March 15. If you know someone who should be nominated for these awards, please visit the Dairy Shrine website at www.dairyshrine.org and click on “Awards” to view a complete listing of each award form. Then you can download the application for the respective award desired.

The annual National Dairy Shrine awards banquet is scheduled for October 3, 2022 in Madison, Wisconsin. For more information please contact the Dairy Shrine office at info@dairyshrine.org. Dairy Shrine membership information is also available online at www.dairyshrine.org. Dairy enthusiasts are encouraged to become a part of this important dairy organization to help honor our dairy heritage, inspire future leaders and promote the dairy industry.