She has a wealth of fundraising and leadership experience along with a rich history with the Holstein Foundation. Harkenrider helped develop the Holstein Foundation’s Young Dairy Leaders Institute and served on the Advisory Committee.
“Thirty years ago, I was on the original Advisory Committee that established the Young Dairy Leaders Institute and then worked with Classes 1, 2, and 3,” Harkenrider says. “I’m very proud of what that program continues to do and offer to young adults.”
Harkenrider was raised on her family’s Registered Holstein and Ayrshire farm in Pennsylvania, and went on to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Dairy Science from Virginia Tech. Early in her career, she worked as Managing and Associate Editor for the Guernsey Breeders’ Journal, and in sales for Holstein World.
Most recently, Harkenrider served as Senior Associate of Philanthropy, Division of Philanthropy and Engagement for Ithaca College in New York. She also volunteered as Co-Chair of the National Holstein Convention Sponsorship Committee in 2016, where she and the committee exceeded their fundraising goal.
“I'm excited to get back to my dairy roots,” Harkenrider says. “The dairy fraternity is a wonderful group of people. I know we’re here because of cows, but it is your relationships with people that last a lifetime.”
Harkenrider looks forward to using her skills and experience in marketing, sales, philanthropy and fundraising in her new role. To get in touch with Diedra, contact her at dharkenrider@holstein.com.
