Holstein Foundation announces Memorial Scholarship winners

The Holstein Foundation is pleased to announce the recipients of the Raymond LeBlanc Memorial Scholarship and the George Miller Memorial Scholarship. These scholarships recognize outstanding students and Junior Holstein members demonstrating a commitment to the dairy industry, leadership in the Holstein community, and a passion for advancing the future of agriculture.

Raymond LeBlanc Memorial Scholarship

The Raymond LeBlanc Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Madison Mowrer of Petersburg, Pennsylvania. She is currently studying Animal Science at Pennsylvania State University. Growing up on her family’s eighth-generation dairy farm, she hopes to build a career in dairy promotion, connecting consumers with agriculture while advocating for dairy farmers. Through leadership roles in the National Junior Holstein Association, state and county Junior Holstein Associations, and as a Dairy Princess, she has developed strong communication and leadership skills while inspiring others through education and outreach. She also hopes to give back to the industry by mentoring future generations of young dairy leaders, following the example of those who have helped guide her own journey.

“My involvement in the Holstein and dairy industry has given me a strong foundation for my future,” Mowrer said.

The Raymond LeBlanc Scholarship fund is administered by the Holstein Foundation, awarded by Holstein Association USA, and supported by generous donors honoring LeBlanc’s legacy.

George Miller Memorial Scholarship

George Miller Memorial Scholarships were awarded to Alexis Hoefs of New Prague, Minnesota and Brianna Meyer of Chilton, Wisconsin.

Passionate about the future of the dairy industry, Hoefs plans to build a career in dairy genetics and reproduction, helping producers improve herd performance through strategic breeding and data-driven management. Through studies in Animal Science at the University of Minnesota, and hands-on experience with dairy cattle, she has developed a strong interest in advancing herd health, longevity, and efficiency. Committed to building lasting relationships with dairy producers, Hoefs also hopes to promote sustainability and share the story of dairy farming through education and outreach.

“The dairy industry’s future is full of opportunity for those willing to innovate while staying grounded in its core values,” Hoefs said.

Growing up on her family’s dairy farm inspired Meyer to pursue a career in veterinary medicine and she hopes to serve dairy producers through large animal health and herd management. A Dairy Science student at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, she has expanded her knowledge through internships with progressive dairy operations across the country, gaining experience in reproduction, genetics, and herd health. Alongside her veterinary aspirations, she is committed to supporting youth development through Junior Holstein and 4-H while serving as a passionate advocate for agriculture and the dairy industry.

“The animals were my best teachers, helping me develop purpose, self-motivation, patience, and resiliency,” Meyer said.

Learn more about scholarship opportunities from the Holstein Foundation at http://www.holsteinfoundation.org. The 2027 scholarship applications will be available this fall.

About the Raymond LeBlanc Memorial Scholarship

Raymond LeBlanc took great pride in owning and operating Burton Hill Farm in Barton, Vermont, where he raised his family alongside his wife, Suzanne. In 1990, he transitioned into a career as a well-known cattle salesman and ring man, becoming a trusted figure in the industry and assisting breeders worldwide.

Beyond his professional achievements, Raymond was passionate about mentoring young people in the industry. He was always willing to lend a helping hand and share his knowledge, making a lasting impact on the next generation of dairy enthusiasts.

About the George Miller Memorial Scholarship

George Miller dedicated his career to advancing the dairy and A.I. industries. He exhibited an unmatched passion for good cows and the breeders he worked alongside. George grew up helping on his uncle’s dairy farm, the birthplace of 7HO58 Round Oak Rag Apple ELEVATION (EX-96-GM). He was a pioneer for genetic advancement in the dairy industry and played a major role in the breeding decisions that produced ELEVATION.

Miller attended Virginia Polytechnic Institute, earning a degree in animal husbandry and a master’s degree in dairy science. He spent most of his career at Select Sires joining the staff in 1973 where he worked as the cooperative’s marketing manager before retiring in 1991.

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