The Pennsylvania Dairy Summit was the stage for this year’s prestigious Pennsylvania Dairy Industry Awards, presented by the Professional Dairy Managers of Pennsylvania, the Center for Dairy Excellence, and the Pennsylvania Dairymen’s Association. These annual awards celebrate individuals who exemplify leadership, service, and excellence in the state’s dairy industry.
A committee of dairy producers and industry professionals meticulously reviewed all applications, evaluating candidates based on their industry contributions and letters of support from peers. The 2025 award recipients stand out for their profound impact on both their local communities and the broader dairy sector.
Distinguished Dairy Producer Award: The Paxton Family of Irishtown Acres
The Paxton Family of Irishtown Acres in Grove City, PA, received the Pennsylvania Distinguished Dairy Producer Award. Their farm, a staple in Mercer County for six generations, operates with a herd of 535 cows and is recognized for its dedication to safety, leadership, and community involvement.
The Paxton family actively promotes farm safety, hosting a twilight safety meeting in 2019 attended by over 125 individuals. Family members have played significant roles in the Mercer County Farm Safety Committee and the Extension Board, advocating for farm safety programming. Their commitment extends to 4-H dairy clubs, community outreach events, and the Pennsylvania Dairy Promotion Program.
In addition to their advocacy, Irishtown Acres is known for its exceptional dairy production. They support fellow Jersey producers by providing high-quality breeding stock and heifers, reinforcing their commitment to the industry’s growth and sustainability.
Dairy Service Award: Raechel Sattazahn
Raechel Sattazahn, Director of Industry and Membership Relations at Horizon Farm Credit, was honored with the Pennsylvania Dairy Service Award. A dedicated advocate for young and beginning farmers, she has played a pivotal role in shaping industry programs and supporting emerging agricultural leaders.
In 2010, Raechel led a collaborative effort among agribusinesses to create the Ag Biz Masters program, an award-winning initiative that equips new farmers with essential business skills. She has also contributed to the Northeast and North American Dairy Challenge Competitions, developing social media internships to enhance student marketing experience.
A former state dairy princess and national dairy judging champion, Raechel remains deeply involved in youth agricultural development. She and her husband have chaired the dairy cattle show at the Berks County Fair for over a decade and continue to mentor 4-H and FFA dairy judging teams, producing numerous state and national winners.
Dairy Innovator Award: The Painterland Sisters
Stephanie and Hayley Painter of The Painterland Sisters received the Pennsylvania Dairy Innovator Award for their groundbreaking work in dairy entrepreneurship. Their brand, known for its organic Skyr yogurt, exemplifies innovation, sustainability, and a commitment to the future of agriculture.
Starting their business in 2018 and launching their first product in 2022, the sisters have expanded to national distribution, producing approximately 270,000 yogurt units weekly. Their milk is sourced from 25 Pennsylvania dairy farms, including their family’s fourth-generation farm in Tioga County. Their brand is also the first to receive the PA Preferred Organic certification, highlighting their dedication to supporting local agriculture.
Beyond business success, the Painterland Sisters are active in industry initiatives, engaging with students, agricultural events, and leadership programs. Their impact has been recognized at the national level, including being named to Forbes’ “30 Under 30 for Food & Drink” and receiving acknowledgment on the U.S. Congress Floor for their contributions to agriculture.
Looking Ahead: Future Nominations
The Pennsylvania Dairy Industry Awards continue to honor exceptional dairy professionals each year. Nominations remain in the selection pool for three years, with updates permitted in subsequent years. Once awarded in a category, recipients must wait two years before eligibility in another category.
Nominations for the 2026 awards are open year-round, closing in November 2025. To submit a nomination or learn more, visit www.centerfordairyexcellence.org/awards.
