By Blake Jackson
The American Dairy Science Association (ADSA) recognized University of Wisconsin-River Falls Assistant Professor Grace Lewis with the 2026 ADSA Foundation Early Career Award: Dairy Foods Division during its annual meeting in Milwaukee.
The award honors promising early-career professionals who demonstrate leadership potential in research and education while addressing important challenges facing the dairy industry.
Each year, ADSA selects one recipient from the Dairy Foods Division and one from the Production Division. Eligible nominees must be within the first three to five years of their professional careers following graduate school or postdoctoral training.
Lewis serves as an assistant professor in the Animal and Food Science Department at the University of Wisconsin River Falls and is affiliated with the Dairy Innovation Hub at the University of Wisconsin Madison.
Lewis's research focuses on modifying dairy proteins and lipids through processing techniques to improve functionality, nutritional quality, and value-added applications.
In addition to publishing numerous peer-reviewed articles and book chapters, Lewis contributes to the scientific community as a section editor for the Journal of Dairy Science. She has also earned recognition for her teaching, mentorship, and innovative research efforts.
"I am beyond honored to receive the 2026 ADSA Foundation Early Career Award: Dairy Foods,” Lewis said.
“The ADSA has provided invaluable support throughout my journey. For an early-career professional, this level of backing and recognition offers immense encouragement. I truly love this industry and what I do, and I remain deeply committed to driving a positive impact through academic instruction, mentorship and innovative research.”
Photo Credit: american-dairy-science-association
Categories: Wisconsin, Education, General