“IDFA is honored to accept the 2024 Dairy Innovation Award for Innovation in Women Empowerment, recognizing IDFA’s Women in Dairy network for its efforts to advance gender equality in the U.S. dairy industry,” said Rasdall. “Empowering women unlocks greater innovation, strengthens our decision-making, and ensures the long-term sustainability of our industry.”

IDFA’s Women in Dairy network works to improve recruiting, retention, and gender equality within the U.S. dairy sector through data-based metrics and tools, C-suite engagement, and by fostering networking and professional and leadership development. The network—now consisting of more than 1,100 women and men from across the dairy supply chain—provides monthly educational and networking programming, year-long mentoring circles, in-person events, and industry benchmarking efforts

 One of the newest opportunities IDFA has made available to women is catered leadership development opportunities through its Women’s Summit. The inaugural conference brought over 50 women from all corners of the dairy industry together to network, advocate on Capitol Hill, develop valuable leadership skills, and hear from passionate and celebrated women from across various disciplines about their experiences as women and leaders. IDFA is excited to continue this opportunity annually, with the next event slated for March 10-12, 2025.