Here Are Your 2026 National Dairy Shrine Honorees!

May 5

Every year, the National Dairy Shrine gives the dairy industry a chance to pause and recognize the people pushing it forward. Not just the ones doing good work, but the ones shaping what’s next. And when you look at this year’s honorees, a few things become really clear: The future of dairy is being built right now, through leadership, innovation, and a deep commitment to the industry.

The Next Generation Is Already Leading

One of the biggest takeaways from this year’s awards is how strong the next generation is. The Emerging Leader category highlights people who aren’t waiting their turn; they’re already making an impact. Across roles in:

Innovation and technology
Marketing and consumer connection
On-farm production and consulting
Industry advocacy

These leaders are expanding what a career in dairy can look like. And just as importantly, they’re helping bridge the gap between agriculture and the public, something the industry needs now more than ever.

2026 Emerging Leader Winners

Bo Harstine
Allison Ryan
Lucas Shostrom
Emily Yeiser Stepp

Innovation Is Still Driving Progress

If you look at the Pioneer Award recipients, there’s a clear pattern: Progress in dairy has always come from people willing to challenge what’s possible. From advancements in:

Nutrition
Genetics
Reproductive technologies
Herd management systems

These leaders didn’t just follow trends, they helped create them. And many of the systems and strategies used on dairies today can be traced back to work done by individuals like these.

2026 Pioneer Award Winners

Dr. Larry Chase
Dr. Dennis Funk
Dr. Rick Grant
Sunshine Genetics: Dr. Chris Keim & Dr. Dan Hornickel

Excellence Isn’t One-Dimensional

What stands out is that success in dairy doesn’t come from one area alone. The operations and individuals being recognized are balancing:

Performance
Innovation
Sustainability
Long-term impact

That combination is what’s setting the new standard. It’s no longer just about production—it’s about building something that lasts. Below are the additional award winners for the 2026 year as well.

2026 Distinguished Dairy Cattle Breeder Award: Pine Tree Dairy

2026 Guest of Honor Award: Bob Hagenow

Legacy Still Matters

While the industry continues to evolve, one thing hasn’t changed: Legacy matters. Recognition at events like the World Dairy Expo isn’t just about celebrating accomplishments—it’s about preserving the history of how the industry got here. Each honoree represents years—often decades—of work that has shaped the dairy landscape we see today.

The Bigger Picture

When you step back, these awards aren’t just about individuals. They reflect where the industry is headed. A future that’s:

More connected to consumers
More driven by innovation
More focused on sustainability and long-term viability

And most importantly—a future being led by people who care deeply about the work they’re doing. The dairy industry doesn’t move forward by accident. It moves forward because of people who are willing to lead, build, and invest in something bigger than themselves. This year’s honorees are a reminder of what that looks like in action. And if there’s one thing to take from it—it’s this: The future of dairy is in good hands.

To hear the complete discussion, stream now on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, or watch the full conversation on YouTube.Emily Yeiser Stepp