Several awards for outstanding industry achievements were presented at a luncheon ceremony today during IDFA’s Dairy Forum 2009, including the IDFA Soaring Eagle Award, the National Cheese Institute's Laureate Award and the Innovative Dairy Farmer of the Year Award.

IDFA presented Soaring Eagle Awards to Brian Haugh, CEO of National Dairy Holdings, and Mike Reidy, senior vice president of procurement, logistics and business development of Leprino Foods Company, in recognition of their leadership and years of service to the associations. More details.

This year's NCI Laureate Award winner is Jerome Schuman, chairman of Arthur Schuman, Inc. The NCI Laureate Award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the growth of the industry. More details.

High Plains Dairy of Friona, Texas, and owner Harry DeWit were honored with the 2009 Innovative Dairy Farmer of the Year Award, co-sponsored by IDFA and Dairy Today magazine. Now in its 11th year, this award recognizes U.S. dairy producers that apply creativity, excellence and forward thinking to achieve greater on-farm productivity and improved milk marketing. More details.