The National Dairy Shrine has announced the 2025 recipients of its prestigious Pioneer Award. This award honors individuals and teams who have shaped the future of the dairy industry.
This year’s recipients are Dr. Joseph Lineweaver, the photographers of Agri-Graphics, the late Dr. David Selner, and geneticists Dr. Paul VanRaden and Dr. George Wiggans.
Dr. David Selner
Dr. David Selner, who passed away in 2023, was a leader in genetics, education, and youth programs. He grew up on a Wisconsin Holstein farm and later played key roles in genetic evaluation and sire development. He helped launch the first embryo transfer program and advised groups around the world.
Importantly, Dr. Selner had a gift for explaining science in ways dairy farmers could understand. He also worked with students, helping found the Dairy Challenge and announcing at World Dairy Expo. During his time as Executive Director of the National Dairy Shrine, he created new scholarships and helped digitize the museum’s archives.
Dr. Joseph Lineweaver
Dr. Joseph Lineweaver made major contributions to reproductive science in the dairy field. While at Virginia Tech and later with Blue Ridge Embryos, he helped set new standards for semen and embryo handling. His work led to the first registered Jersey calf born from embryo transfer.
Throughout his career, he supported youth and served in leadership roles in major dairy groups. Even in his 90s, Dr. Lineweaver continues to inspire others through his service and mentorship.
Agri-Graphics
Agri-Graphics is honored as a team for transforming how dairy cattle are photographed. Their photos helped farmers promote top animals and boosted genetic marketing worldwide.
Founded in 1963 by Danny Weaver and later led by Kathy DeBruin, Agri-Graphics gave many women photographers their start in a male-dominated field. Notably, photographers like Maggie Murphy and many others helped create powerful images that told the story of dairy excellence.
Their motto became, “We don’t take pictures, we make them!” Their work is now part of the visual history of the industry.
Dr. Paul VanRadn & Dr. George Wiggans
Lastly, Dr. Paul VanRaden and Dr. George Wiggans are honored together for advancing dairy cattle genetics. Their work helped improve traits like fertility, calving ease, and longevity. Because of them, breeders can now make faster and better decisions.
They also developed Net Merit and tools to track genetic health. Their research team spirit and mentorship have inspired scientists around the world. Over their careers, they wrote over 500 papers that shaped the future of dairy breeding.
All recipients will be honored at the National Dairy Shrine Awards Banquet on Monday, September 29, in Madison. Their portraits will be added to the Dairy Hall of Fame in Fort Atkinson.
