Top dairy student awards to be renamed in honor of former University of Minnesota professor.

Dairy Shrine recently received a $100,000 contribution from Dr. Les Hansen, internationally known dairy professor, researcher, genetics expert, judging coach, and advisor to hundreds of University of Minnesota dairy students.

 

In recognition of this major gift, starting in 2026 Dairy Shrine will rename its top award program for graduating seniors the Dr. Les Hansen Student Recognition Award. This program recognizes seniors with outstanding leadership, activity participation, academic ability and interest in the dairy industry. The highest award winner receives $2,000, the second $1,500, and the other four receive $1,000 each. Honorees are recognized at the annual Dairy Shrine banquet at World Dairy Expo in October.

 

“We could not be more grateful for Dr. Hansen’s support of Dairy Shrine. It is extremely fitting to rename our senior dairy student award program in his honor. Over the years, 12 students who Dr. Hansen mentored and coached have earned the top student recognition award, including this year’s winner, Benjamin Styer,” says Mike Opperman, Dairy Shrine executive director. “This gift will ensure continuation of our senior student recognition program for years to come.”

 

Before his retirement in 2024, Hansen was Distinguished Teaching Professor at the University of Minnesota, earning accolades for his ground-breaking research in dairy genetics and ability to inspire excellence among both graduate and undergraduate students. Hansen’s influence has had a ripple effect throughout the industry as his 800-plus former advisees at the University of Minnesota have gone on to their own achievements and dairy leadership roles.

 

During his 43 years at Minnesota, Hansen focused attention on developing the full potential of every student. To that end, he helped launch the Gopher Dairy Club in 1982, shortly after joining the University of Minnesota faculty. Hansen remains involved in the University of Minnesota dairy program as a volunteer judging team coach and assists with student recruitment.

 

“The dairy industry has been my life, and Dairy Shrine has always been a part of it,” says Hansen, reflecting on his decision to contribute $100,000 to the organization. “I’m proud to say that several past and current Dairy Shrine board members are my former students. I know the money will be well used.”

 

In 2023 Hansen was named Dairy Shrine Guest of Honor, the organization’s top award for dairy industry leadership. He has received many other honors, including the Hoard’s Dairyman Youth Development Award, J.L. Lush Award in Animal Breeding and Genetics, and Minnesota DHIA Distinguished Service Award.