The Missouri Dairy Hall of Honors Foundation recently recognized the dedication and service of James A. Coats, a Dairy Farmers of America, Inc.’s (DFA) member, and Steve Davis, a manager in DFA’s Southeast Area. The Foundation awarded Coats its Leadership Award and Davis the Meritorious Service Award.
The Foundation’s awards program recognizes and honors Missouri individuals who have made noteworthy contributions to the progress and welfare of the dairy industry.
The Dairy Leadership Award, established in 1971, honors those who have rendered outstanding service and provided leadership for the Missouri dairy industry over a period of time. Randy Mooney, who serves as chairman of DFA’s Board of Directors, received the award in 2010.
Coats held several roles in the Missouri dairy industry over the course of six decades. He served as a leader with the University Extension Council of Texas County, Missouri; MFA, Inc.; Farm Credit Land Bank; the Missouri Holstein Association and the Texas County Cattlemen’s Association. Coats recently retired and his son, Tom, assumed management of the dairy. Before retiring, Coats was a district chairman for DFA and served as an elected delegate, representing fellow DFA members at the Cooperative’s Annual Meeting.
The Meritorious Service Award is given to those who have served milk producers and processors in exemplary fashion. Davis, a resident of Seymour, Missouri, and a former field representative for DFA, has more than 20 years experience working in the dairy industry and currently serves on the Missouri State Milk Board Advisory Committee. PD
—From DFA news release
