The Award Is Intended to Support the Next Generation of the PA Veterinary Community
The new David Hileman Memorial Veterinary Service Award is now open to recognize a large animal veterinarian within Pennsylvania who is under the age of 40 or within the first 10 years of practice in the field who has demonstrated a commitment to the large animal community in PA and who exemplifies service to advancing the sustainability and welfare of Pennsylvania dairy herds. The award program was established in 2026 to recognize those in the veterinary profession who have dedicated themselves and their careers to serving the large animal community in Pennsylvania and who have exemplified a commitment to advancing PA dairy herds through proactive, responsive, and service-oriented veterinary care.
“This award is named in memory of David Hileman, who was not a veterinarian but a forward-thinking, service-oriented dairy producer who gave generously to the Dairy Excellence Foundation and was passionate about the next generation in our industry,” shared Jayne Sebright, Executive Director of the Dairy Excellence Foundation. “We hope this award can support the next generation of our veterinary community in Pennsylvania through the memory and legacy of David Hileman.”
Nominations can be submitted online at www.centerfordairyexcellence.org/vet-service-award and are due by November 30, 2026. The winning individual will receive a $12,000 cash award and recognition at the annual Pennsylvania Dairy Summit in February.
To qualify for this award, individuals must:
- Be under the age of 40 years old or within the first 10 years of practicing as a veterinarian.
- Be a practicing veterinarian who is part of a practice with dairy farms as part of their client base.
Qualities of someone recognized through this award could include:
- A deep understanding of the unique relationship and delicate balance between animal husbandry, dairy management, and profitability on a dairy farm
- A high level of integrity
- A forward-thinking, proactive and practical approach to supporting dairy farm clients
- A service-oriented disposition
- A strong passion for the Pennsylvania dairy farm community
- A demonstrated commitment to serving Pennsylvania’s dairy farm community in a positive way
Nominations for the David Hileman Memorial Veterinary Service Award must be submitted by November 30, 2026. Individuals can be nominated through a self-nomination or by another individual who wishes to recognize their achievements in the industry.
To nominate an individual for this award, visit www.centerfordairyexcellence.org/vet-service-award to submit it with up to three letters of support for the nominee. Contact Jayne Sebright at jsebright@centerfordairyexcellence.org or call 717-346-0849 with questions about the award.