Messing Receives 2009 Dairy Shrine Award
10/5/09
Contact: Sara Long
517-432-1555, ext. 170
EAST LANSING, Mich. -- Ashley Messing, a May 2009 Michigan State University (MSU) animal science graduate, was one of nine college students from across the country honored by the National Dairy Shrine at ceremonies held during the 2009 World Dairy Expo in Madison, Wis.
The National Dairy Shrine’s Student Recognition Award recognizes students for excellence in leadership skills, involvement in activities, academic accomplishments and interest in the dairy industry. The awards were presented during the National Dairy Shrine’s annual awards banquet held Oct. 1.
The Student Recognition Award honors graduating college seniors as they begin their careers or pursue graduate level education and comes with a cash award. Messing was one of seven students who received a $500 cash award. Jennifer Rassler, Kempton, Pa., received a $1,500 scholarship as this year’s first place winner and Aaron Horst, Chambersburg, Pa., received a $1,000 scholarship.
Messing, from Bad Axe, is currently employed by Semex USA as its Northeastern Michigan District Sales Representative. Prior to earning a bachelor of science degree in animal science, she graduated from the MSU Institute of Agricultural Technology with a two-year degree in dairy management . Messing was actively involved in the MSU Dairy Club and participated on both the Ag Tech and college dairy judging teams. She was also an active Michigan 4-H member, served on both the Michigan Junior Holstein Association and Jersey Junior Cattle Club boards of directors, and fulfilled the role of the 2007 senior Michigan Dairy Ambassador.
To compete for the award, Messing had to complete an application, answer several essay questions and submit two letters of recommendation. She said she was both surprised and ecstatic when she opened the congratulations letter from the National Dairy Shrine.
“It’s indeed an honor to be recognized by the National Dairy Shrine, and I feel fortunate to be considered among some of the most elite individuals from the U.S. dairy industry as one of the recipients of this award,” she said. “Receiving this award helps me stand out among my peers and puts me out in front of the worldwide dairy audience.”
Founded in 1949 by a small group of visionary dairy leaders, the National Dairy Shrine’s 17,000-plus members represent every facet of the dairy industry. The organization unites dairy producers, scientists, students, educators, marketers and others who share a desire to preserve the country’s dairy heritage and promote its future. The National Dairy Shrine awards more than $35,000 in awards and scholarships annually and provides financial support to the World Dairy Expo and the National 4-H Dairy Conference.
The MSU Department of Animal Science has a 100-year tradition of educating outstanding students, providing excellence in research and engaging communities through Extension activities. For more information, call (517) 355-8383 or visit www.ans.msu.edu.
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