2025 Indiana Dairy Producer of the Year
Sam & Pamela Jones
Jones Robotic Dairy, a fourth-generation family farm, gained widespread recognition as Indiana's first robotic dairy when it opened its doors in 2003. Since then, it has welcomed hundreds of visitors from nearly all 50 states and various countries. The Jones family currently milks around 110 Holstein dairy cows, raises their own young stock, and breeds heifers to expand the herd. They also sell bulls as breeding stock to numerous dairies across Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio.
Sam joined the farm full-time in 1974 and has faced numerous challenges over the years as a dedicated dairy farmer. In addition to the typical economic hurdles of the farming industry, he has navigated issues such as robotic installation setbacks, the loss of his parents, and the responsibility of ensuring the farm's succession to keep the family legacy alive. Despite personal health struggles, Sammy remains committed to his work and continues to honor the family tradition, striving to help feed the world through dairy farming efforts.
Sam and Pamela have been deeply involved in Indiana Farm Bureau, the Pulaski County Dairy Producers (now dissolved), and are strong advocates for agricultural education. They have hosted countless farm tours for groups and individuals, eager to share their knowledge and passion for farming. Sam is always ready and excited to talk about dairy farming, the agricultural industry, and his dedication to feeding the world with anyone he meets.
2025 Indiana Young Dairy Producer of the Year
Caleb Herrema
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At a young age, Caleb has been able to successfully step in as manager of one of the largest dairies in Indiana, milking over 16,000 head of Holstein cows. This farm focuses on innovation and sustainability by utilizing technology such as robotic milking equipment to help with efficiency as well as converting manure into energy with an onsite digestor.
Not only does he continue to improve the dairy through bettering the facilities and cow comfort, but he also focuses on employee growth by leading CCD bilingual Leadership training program. Caleb is very involved in the dairy and his community while also raising two young children with Tatum, his wife.
Caleb leads a bilingual leadership training program, a 6-month intensive training incorporating 30 multicultural backgrounds, and is a member of the Animal Welfare and Hauling committee for Select Milk Producers. He participates in the Dairy Dynasty Club with other leading producers focused on milk quality. Caleb serves and donates to his church and to the Jasper County Fair.
2025 Indiana Dairy Producers Scholarship Recipient: Logen Brand
Logen Brand is a highly motivated student at Purdue University pursuing a dual degree in Plant Genetics, Breeding, and Biotechnology and Agronomy. With a strong background in agriculture, including farm management experience and leadership roles in FFA, Logen is passionate about advancing sustainable agricultural practices.
Logen is a recipient of the National Merit Scholarship, the Keystone Scholarship, and the Central Star Scholarship, and has achieved national recognition in the National FFA Agriscience Competition.
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2025 Kuehnert Dairy Scholarship Recipient
Oliver Nissen
Nathan and Sarah Kuehnert were pleased to present this year’s Alan Kuehnert Memorial Scholarship to Oliver Nisen.
Oliver is a driven high school senior who is passionate about improving dairy cattle health. As Dairy Herd Manager at Nise-N-Fancy Holsteins, he is gaining valuable hands-on experience while excelling academically. He has achieved success in FFA and 4-H competitions.
Oliver is a dedicated volunteer and a strong leader, serving as President of the Elkhart County 4-H Dairy Club. He has earned numerous awards, including 1st place in the Milk Quality Career Development Team at the state contest and 1st place in the area dairy judging contest.