Dairy Science Club named Student Organization of the Year in partner category
Texas A&M recognizes student organization for industry collaboration and student engagement
The Texas A&M Dairy Science Club has earned the 2026 Adair Award for Student Organization of the Year in the partnership category recognizing the group’s commitment to collaboration, leadership and service.
The partnership category honors student organizations that work with university departments, industry partners and external agencies to support student success and community engagement.
“This recognition reflects the hard work and enthusiasm of our students in the Dairy Science Club,” said Clay Mathis, Ph.D., professor and head of the Department of Animal Science. “Opportunities outside the classroom are essential because they help students grow beyond academics and prepare for careers in the dairy industry.”
Building connections across the dairy industry
Since 1910, the Dairy Science Club has connected students to the dairy industry through education, networking and professional development. The organization provides opportunities for students from all backgrounds to gain experience and build industry connections.
“Regardless of whether students come from a city background or grew up on a dairy, the club gives them a place to learn and connect,” said Sushil Paudyal, Ph.D., assistant professor and faculty advisor in the Department of Animal Science.
The club hosts meetings, social events and farm tours that allow members to learn directly from producers and industry leaders. Students also support the community through volunteer efforts and educational field days in partnership with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service and Texas A&M AgriLife Research.
Hands-on learning prepares students for careers
A key component of the organization is the Dairy Challenge competitive team, which gives students experience analyzing real-world dairy operations. Participants evaluate herd performance, interpret farm data and present recommendations.
The Texas A&M team just brought home a first place from the National Intercollegiate Dairy Challenge on April 14. The club also participates in quiz bowl competitions and research presentations through its affiliation with the American Dairy Science Association.
These experiences help students build technical knowledge, communication skills and confidence while preparing for careers in the dairy industry.
Leadership drives growth and tradition
This year’s officers include Abby van Adrichem, president, Hereford; Paige Richards, vice president, Urbandale, Iowa; Mia Coker, secretary, Hamilton; Dieter Ally, treasurer, Friona; Conner Rolf, membership coordinator, McKinney; and Madison Higgins, public relations officer, Waller.
Paudyal and Michael Tomaszewski, Ph.D., AgriLife Extension Service specialist emeritus and visiting professor and faculty advisor, guide the organization’s efforts. Paudyal has served as advisor since 2019 and has seen significant growth in membership and engagement.
“When I took over in 2019, there were only a handful of students in the club,” Paudyal said. “Now we have around 45 students and they are making an impact in the dairy industry.”
Paudyal also won the Adair Advisor Award in 2022 for his work with the Dairy Science Club.
“This club is one of the oldest on campus,” Paudyal said. “The students are committed to keeping that tradition going and promoting dairy science.”
