Several industry leaders and innovators were honored recently at IDFA’s Dairy Forum. Among them were John Jeter, CEO, of Hilmar Cheese (right) who was recognized with the NCI Laureate Award, presented each year to individuals who have made significant contributions to the U.S. cheese industry. Dairy Foods presented its Processor of the Year award to the Dannon Company (below).

Several industry leaders and innovators were honored recently at IDFA’s Dairy Forum. Among them were John Jeter, CEO, of Hilmar Cheese (right) who was recognized with the NCI Laureate Award, presented each year to individuals who have made significant contributions to the U.S. cheese industry. Dairy Foods presented its Processor of the Year award to the Dannon Company (below). Several members of Dannon’s executive team were on hand. Also recognized was Miriam Erickson Brown, CEO and president of Anderson Erickson Dairy Co., who received the 2007 Soaring Eagle Award. Joseph Gallo Farms of Atwater, Calif., was named IDFA’s 2007 Innovative Dairy Farmer of the Year.