Six individuals were recently honored by the by the Association of Women in Agriculture Benefit Corporation (AWABC) and the Association of Women in Agriculture (AWA). These awards celebrate people who have made a positive impact on AWA and also the agricultural community.
AWA Founders Award
Ronna Morton Ballmer received the AWA Founders Award. This award goes to someone who has greatly influenced AWA students and alumni. Ronna has supported AWA since the 1970s. She served as alumni president in 1988–1989 and helped with many activities. During the 1990s and early 2000s, she led Tupperware fundraisers. In 2004, she was named a Friend of AWA for her efforts. More recently, she has made Badger T-shirt quilts to raise money for scholarships.
Outstanding Woman in Agriculture
Katy Katzman was named the Outstanding Woman in Agriculture. This award honors someone with a strong impact on the agriculture industry. Katy has shown leadership and support for the next generation of women in agriculture. She worked as Managing Editor at Agri-View and later led the Wisconsin State Fair Dairy Promotion Board. Now, she and her family run Katzman Farms Inc., a 1,600-cow dairy farm.
Outstanding Senior
Emma Vos was chosen as the Outstanding Senior. This award is for a student who has led within AWA. Emma will graduate in May with a degree in Agricultural and Applied Economics. She held roles such as Treasurer and Chair of Breakfast on the Farm. Emma hopes to stay involved as an alumna and also help connect current and former members.
Friend of AWA
Brenna Johnson received the Friend of AWA award. This honor is given by students to someone who goes above and beyond in supporting the group. Brenna has helped with house projects like installing new windows and a stove. She balances this with work while also raising a family.
AWA Day Honored Guest
Val Gaffney and Gaffney Family Cattle were honored as this year’s AWA Day Honored Guest. This award recognizes those who generously give time and resources to AWA. The Gaffney family has delivered meals, chaperoned events, and also donated beef to the AWA house.
Outstanding Alumnus Award
Sydney Flick received the Outstanding Alumnus award. This goes to an alumna who is excelling in agriculture and also giving back to her community. Sydney is a leader on her family’s farm, Jazzy Jerseys, in Lodi. She recently opened a farm store that sells beef, sweet corn, pumpkins, and more. Her goal is to promote agritourism and help people connect with farming.
