NMPF Recognizes Dairy Scholars Nationwide

Jun 11, 2025
By Farms.com

Four Graduate Students Awarded for Dairy Leadership Research

The National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) has selected four exceptional graduate students for the 2025 National Dairy Leadership Scholarship Program, which aims to support emerging dairy researchers and leaders.

Among the winners is Dallas Soffa, a PhD student at Texas A&M, studying reproductive health in cattle through hormonal and immune cell interactions.

Margaret Costello, from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, is researching new technologies to advance microbiome studies in dairy cattle.

Marina Rocha Dorella, a master’s student at the University of Minnesota, is improving dairy sustainability by optimizing treatments and labour efficiency using precision tools.

A significant addition to this year’s awards is the Dr. Peter Vitaliano Legacy Scholarship, honouring dedication to the dairy sector. This new award was granted to Maria Belen Ugarte Marin from the University of Florida. Her research focuses on milking techniques and their effects on dairy farm outcomes. She is also known for mentoring students and her enthusiasm for agricultural education.

“Congratulations to each recipient of this year’s National Dairy Leadership Scholarships,” said NMPF President and CEO Gregg Doud. “We are proud to continue to focus on the future of the industry by supporting these young professionals in their endeavors. Farmers can be confident in their investment in education and the next generation of dairy leaders.”

The announcement was made during the NMPF Board of Directors meeting held on June 10–11 in Arlington, Virginia. Additional information about the scholarship program and how to contribute can be found at fb.org/challenge.

Video: Five Confirmed New World Screwworm Cases Raise Alarm for Livestock and Pet Owners

Pat Hoffmann, Swine Technical Consultant at Elanco Animal Health tells us about the impact of New World Screwworm. The emergence of New World screwworm in the U.S. creates a threat for veterinarians, livestock producers and pet owners that has not been seen north of the Florida Keys since the fly was eradicated from the United States more than 50 years ago. New World screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax) larvae feed on living tissue and can affect a wide range of warm-blooded animals, including livestock, companion animals, wildlife, and even humans.
“New World screwworm could have a devastating impact on animal health, welfare, and producer livelihoods,” said Jeff Simmons, President and CEO, Elanco Animal Health. “We want to thank the FDA, EPA and USDA, for all their work to prepare for this threat. We’re committed to supporting our customers during this challenging time by delivering innovation, scientific expertise, and available resources to help treat New World screwworm and support the health and well-being of animals.”
Elanco is working alongside the U.S. animal health industry to help them fight against this parasite, offering a portfolio of options for pets and livestock that can help treat New World screwworm larvae infestations.