Wisconsin Ag Connection - AWA Honors Alumni, Students During Program

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AWA Honors Alumni, Students During Program
Wisconsin Ag Connection - 05/17/2021

The Association of Women in Agriculture organization at the University of Wisconsin-Madison has recognized several of its alumni members and supporters during the group's annual AWA Day.

Jill Makovec was recognized with the AWA Founders Award. The honor is presented to an individual who has had a significant influence on students and alumni of AWA. As an alumni member Makovec served as the AWA treasurer and financial management chair. During her time in these roles the AWA house was refinanced with Home Savings Bank, the interest rate was reduced and the last check for the mortgage on the AWA house was written. She also led through the process of AWA becoming a 501c3 organization, allowing to file for property tax exemption. Makovec graduated from UW-Madison with degrees in Dairy Science and Ag Journalism. Now, she is a National Account Executive at Learfield / Brownfield Ag News & WI Radio Network and resides in Madison, Wis.

Dr. Sandy Curran was presented with the Outstanding Woman in Agriculture Award. She was a 1983 graduate with a degree in meat and animal science and received her DVM in 1987--receiving both from UW-Madison. Dr. Curran developed and commercialized reproductive technology and made it available to others through seminars and teachings to other veterinarians. She is the owner of Ultrascan Inc. and resides in Madison.

And Emily Franke is this year's student Outstanding Senior. She is a majoring in dairy science and life sciences communication and is from Oakfield. Throughout her four years at Madison, she has served as an officer three of the years along with being an active participant on numerous committees, as well as involved in other student organizations. Franke will be joining the team at Professional Dairy Producers of Wisconsin as a Project Coordinator upon graduation this spring.

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