Nominations Now Open for WCMA Member Impact Awards
Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association (WCMA) is now accepting nominations for its Member Impact Awards, recognizing WCMA members that are empowering their employees, communities, and the entire dairy industry. Nominations are open through July 17, 2026, and self-nominations are accepted.
“The Member Impact Awards highlight the many ways WCMA members are making a difference across our industry and communities,” said Sara Schmidt, WCMA Membership Director. “Whether recognizing your own organization or another member, we encourage nominations for those making a meaningful difference in advocacy, the workplace, sustainability, or community impact.”
The WCMA Member Impact Awards celebrate excellence in four key categories:
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WCMA Advocate of the Year: Honoring organizations that have significantly advanced the dairy industry through legislative advocacy, education, or public influence.
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WCMA Employer of the Year: Recognizing organizations that excel in human resources and workplace safety, fostering inclusive and supportive work environments.
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WCMA Sustainable Stewardship Award: Celebrating organizations demonstrating outstanding efforts in environmental stewardship and sustainability.
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WCMA Culture of Excellence Award: Acknowledging organizations dedicated to social responsibility and community engagement.
Last year's winners were Organic Valley/CROPP Cooperative for WCMA Advocate of the Year, Masters Gallery Foods for WCMA Employer of the Year, Agropur for the WCMA Sustainable Stewardship Award, and Nasonville Dairy for the WCMA Culture of Excellence Award
All WCMA member organizations 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 on September 23 in Madison, Wisconsin.
To nominate a deserving organization, download the application packet at WisCheeseMakers.org/member-impact-awards and submit completed materials via email to membership@wischeesemakers.org by July 17, 2026. For questions, please contact Sara Schmidt at sschmidt@wischeesemakers.org or 608-673-5269.