In October, Midwest Dairy hosted two dinner and discussion events titled “Nourishing a Sustainable Food System: Dairy’s Role.” The goal for each event was to grow trust in dairy’s role in a sustainable food system, develop new connections, and strengthen current relationships with thought leaders across various platforms.
The Chicago event took place at Herban Produce on October 16, and the Bloomington event was held at Epiphany Farms Restaurant on October 23. Both venues were carefully chosen to emphasize a farm-to-table experience. Each event began with a soft opening, during which guests were encouraged to get to know one another through Icebreaker Bingo while enjoying appetizers. Prizes from Undeniably Dairy were awarded to the first three guests to call out a “Bingo!”
The discussion portion of each event featured three presenters, each focusing on a unique aspect of dairy’s role in sustainability. Dr. Stephanie Masiello Schuette from Dairy Management Inc. discussed the foundational role of dairy in a sustainable food system. Lorilee Schultz from Mil-R-Mor in Orangeville, Illinois, and Beth Marcoot from Marcoot Jersey Farm and Creamery in Greenville, Illinois, shared insights as local dairy farmers. Lastly, Jillian Quainoo, RDN from WellnessJill.com, highlighted dairy’s nutritional, economic, and social contributions.
To facilitate the discussions, a Masters of Ceremony was appointed for each event. During the Chicago event, Dakota Cowger, a dairy farmer from Bettenhausen Farm in Peotone, Illinois, guided the group. The Bloomington event featured Dr. Derek Nolan, a Teaching Assistant Professor and Dairy Extension Specialist in the Department of Animal Sciences at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
After filling their brains with great content, guests could fill their bellies with a satiating meal that included dairy in each of the offerings. Many of the ingredients were also sourced from local farms. Guests did not walk away empty-handed. Each received a cheese and fudge box from Marcoot Jersey Farm and Creamery. Chicago guests received an added bonus: a bag filled with fresh veggies from Herban Produce’s farm. Both events successfully achieved their goal of building and nurturing relationships with thought leaders in the sustainable food sector. Between the two events, Midwest Dairy connected with over 33 thought leaders and received positive feedback regarding the role of dairy in a sustainable food system. We plan to build on this momentum in 2025 and continue fostering relationships in this work area. Enjoy this highlight video that captures the essence of each event.