WCMA Announces Inaugural Member Impact Awards

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association (WCMA) announced its inaugural Member Impact Awards, recognizing WCMA members for their contributions in leadership, sustainability, innovation, advocacy and workplace culture.

The categories of the Member Impact Awards include the Advocate of the Year, Employer of the Year, Sustainable Stewardship Award and the Culture of Excellence Award.

The winners will be recognized at the WCMA Annual Member Meeting & Awards Ceremony at the Legacy Hotel in Green Bay, Wis., on Oct. 21 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. (CDT). The following dairy processors have been recognized with a Member Impact Award:

WCMA Advocate of the Year: Organic Valley/CROPP Cooperative

Organic Valley/CROPP Cooperative is being awarded for its leadership “in advancing dairy industry interests at the state and federal levels,” said WCMA. Over the past year, Organic Valley’s staff and farmer-members met with policymakers and advocated for programs such as the Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives. Through multiple D.C. fly-ins, legislative testimony and farm visits, Organic Valley “amplified farmer voices, fostered industry partnerships and ensured strong policy support for all dairy processors and organic producers,” said WCMA.

WCMA Employer of the Year: Masters Gallery Foods

Masters Gallery Foods will be recognized for excelling in human resources and workplace safety, making the company a more inclusive and supportive workplace. Masters Gallery provides “wellness programs, leadership development opportunities and transparent communication channels,” according to WCMA. The company recently received the Safety Leader Award from the Sheboygan County Chamber of Commerce. Masters Galley has also contributed “to the development of a machine safeguarding guide for cheese converters and equipment manufacturers,” said WCMA.

WCMA Sustainable Stewardship Award: Agropur

For years, Agropur has been a leader in environmental sustainability in the dairy industry. Agropur has conducted initiatives “with dairy producers, renewable energy investments and innovative projects,” said WCMA. Agropur has also converted dairy by-products into value-added products, reducing emissions and conserving resources. The company is also being recognized for its leadership in wastewater treatment and energy efficiency.

WCMA Culture of Excellence Award

Nasonville Dairy will receive the Culture of Excellence Award for its commitment to community giving through leadership and philanthropy. Nasonville employees are involved in “key roles across local and state organizations from youth programs to veteran support,” WCMA said. The company donates to health care, education and agricultural youth development initiatives.