Open Nomination and Voting Period Begins for 2027 WCMA Recognition Awards

Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association (WCMA) members can vote now through October 30, 2026, to select the 2027 WCMA Distinguished Service Award nominees. Nominations are also sought for additional WCMA industry honors. 

“WCMA's annual Recognition Awards shine a light on those who have gone above and beyond to contribute to the current and future success of dairy. Please take a moment to nominate a mentor or friend who has made a difference in dairy’s success,” said John Umhoefer, WCMA Executive Director. 

Eight nominees for the WCMA Distinguished Service Award (DSA) are on a ballot built by industry members serving on the WCMA Recognition Committee. This award recognizes supplier partners who have played a significant role in building the success of the dairy industry. Visit www.wischeesemakersassn.org/recognition to vote and advance nominees to “top three” DSA finalists. 

Use the URL above to also nominate industry greats for these WCMA awards:

• WCMA Babcock Award, focused on educators and affiliated associations;
• WCMA Vanguard Award, focused on outstanding cheesemakers and dairy manufacturing staff; 
• WCMA Luminary Award, highlighting excellent sales and marketing persons, R&D leaders, and quality assurance professionals; and,
• WCMA Cheese Industry Champion Award, recognizing dairy business leaders whose leadership has created opportunity and spurred growth.  

These nominations are considered by the WCMA Recognition Committee, which advances finalists to the WCMA Board of Directors. The Board makes final picks, and a full slate of 2027 WCMA Recognition Award honorees are announced in January and feted at the WCMA Recognition Breakfast on April 22, 2027, during CheeseCon. 

Find complete details and offer your nominations at www.wischeesemakersassn.org/recognition today! Contact WCMA’s Executive Director John Umhoefer at jumhoefer@wischeesemakers.org with any questions.