Each year, National Dairy Shrine recognizes a contemporary dairy leader for outstanding accomplishments and contributions to the dairy industry. This "Guest of Honor" award is one of the industry's most prestigious. The recipient need not be a National Dairy Shrine member, although the nomination must be made by a member. Portraits of honorees are displayed at the National Dairy Shrine Museum and Dairy Hall of Fame in Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin.

 

This year’s honoree is Bonnie Mohr.

Bonnie Mohr, Owner and President of Bonnie Mohr Studio, in Glencoe, Minnesota is the first woman being honored with this recognition. As a self-taught artist, Mohr's career began in 1988, when Select Sires commissioned her to paint a few of their most famous bulls. Since that initial project, she has gone on to become the one of the worlds' most popular and most respected dairy artists. Furthermore Mohr is also an incredible giver of her time, money and talent. Mohr has given freely to over 100 charities through donated artwork. Over the years, these charities have comprised of many dairy-based organizations including FFA, 4-H, breed associations and fundraisers for farm families following tragedy. In addition to being a world-renowned artist, Mohr is a dairy farmer's wife and together she and her husband John have raised 5 children on their registered Holstein farm, Glenmark Genetics, Inc.