The Dairy Business Association (DBA) announced Sept. 3 the dates, speakers and programs for its largest annual event, which will be held Jan. 19-20 at the Monona Terrace in Madison, Wisconsin. A virtual option will also be available.
The conference brings together farmers, corporate professionals, government and university representatives, and other partners to learn, network, celebrate, and explore challenges and opportunities in the state’s signature industry.
Dairy Strong’s track programming will focus on the growing importance of sustainability, how technology is providing a path to progress and the significance of a forward-thinking mindset. Among other aspects, there will also be a panel discussion about the pandemic’s impact on the supply chain and lessons to carry forward.
“We always strive to provide programs, presenters, speakers and sessions that are innovative, instructive and inspiring,” DBA President Amy Penterman said. “It’s so important to provide a rich experience for our farmers, processors and the many others who make up such a critical part of our economy, rural communities and food system.”
In addition to Pompeo, featured speakers will be Ryan Estis, John O’Leary and a legislative guest who is yet to be determined.
Ryan Estis is a sales and leadership expert who prepares companies and individual contributors to embrace change and achieve breakthrough performance. Estis has 20 years of business experience working with brands around the world to initiate change, inspire innovation and deliver growth.
John O’Leary is an inspirational speaker who survived a horrific accident as a 9-year-old when he was burned on 100% of his body and was given a 1% chance to live. He has shared his story as a best-selling author, podcast host and in talks with more than 1 million people.
Mike Pompeo is the first person to have served in the Cabinet posts of CIA director and secretary of state, both in the Trump administration. Previously, Pompeo was a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Kansas from 2011 to 2017 and was an Army officer.
The conference will again feature a tradeshow, an Innovation Stage and breakout sessions whose topics are being finalized. The Wisconsin’s Master Cheese Reception also will take place and DBA will announce its Advocate of the Year.
Click here for the latest conference schedule. Registration is open, and farmers who register by Nov. 1 will receive two free passes per farm. Click here to register. Journalists should register through Jamie Mara. Sponsorships are available by emailing Nicole Barlass or Bekah Morrow. For more information on becoming a sponsor, click here. 
—From a Dairy Business Association news release
