New Prague, MN (January 29, 2026) – NMC: The Global Milk Quality Organization presented Pamela Ruegg, David J. Ellis professor of antimicrobial resistance and large animal clinical sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University (MSU), with its 2026 Award of Excellence for Contribution to Mastitis Prevention and Control. Her previous roles include associate veterinarian, Kiel Veterinary Clinic, Kiel Wis.; assistant professor, health management, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, PEI, Canada; assistant professor and program leader, veterinary extension, large animal clinical sciences, MSU, East Lansing, Mich.; technical service manager, Monsanto Company; assistant and associate professor and extension milk quality specialist, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wis.; and professor and chairperson, department of animal science, MSU.
This award recognizes an NMC member who has provided sustained contributions to mastitis prevention and control through research, extension and/or education, clinical practice or service to dairy producers. Boehringer Ingelheim sponsors the award.
With more than 40 years of experience working on mastitis and milk quality, Ruegg has dedicated herself to answering the toughest questions the dairy industry has faced – from the impact of tail docking on milk quality to how to reduce antimicrobial use. Throughout this time, she has remained dedicated and committed to making sure her initiatives are practical for farmers while also conducting cutting-edge applied research.
One of Ruegg’s former graduate students, Quinn Kolar, Cornell University senior lecturer in dairy herd management, explained that Ruegg’s research impact is “indisputable,” according to Scopus. Ruegg has published 173 peer-reviewed manuscripts with almost 75,000 citations and has an h-index (measurement of productivity and impact) of 50, which is impressive. Notably, in 2017 she was invited to write an article in the 100-year review issue of the Journal of Dairy Science on “Mastitis detection, management, and prevention.” This article has received 587 citations alone. “Dr. Ruegg’s exceptional research output and her active extension program are a powerful combination,” stated Kolar.
In supporting Ruegg’s nomination, Pamela Adkins, University of Missouri, wrote, “Pam Ruegg’s scientific contributions to udder health are unmatched. Her dedication to the science and energy level in the delivery of the message is contagious, providing positive momentum for everyone working in this field. Beyond her own work, she continuously provides opportunities to lift up the younger generation of dairy scientists, positively impacting the trajectory for their careers. On top of it all, she is the best storyteller in the bovine industry, able tobring everyone together with a good laugh. Pam is an inspiration and highly deserving of this award.”
Ken Leslie, University of Guelph professor emeritus and the first recipient of NMC’s Award of Excellence, described Ruegg as “a pre-eminent international authority on intramammary infection, mastitis control, milk quality and development of antimicrobial resistance in dairy cattle.” Leslie added, “She is clearly a world leader in both extension education and research. Few other individuals, if any, have such a wide range of experience and expertise in this area. As such, Pam is sought after as a source of knowledge from colleagues around the world.”
Carolina Pinzón-Sanchez, University of Wisconsin-Madison – Division of Extension, has worked closely with Ruegg for more than a decade. “Dr. Ruegg is synonymous with milk quality worldwide. Her research on mastitis management, milk quality and antimicrobial stewardship has set industry standards – providing farmers, veterinarians and researchers with practical tools and knowledge,” stated Pinzón-Sanchez. “Beyond her research, Pam’s mentorship has shaped the careers of many, including my own. Her guidance has been so meaningful that I affectionately refer to her as my ‘forever advisor’.”
Ronald Erskine, MSU professor emeritus, reflected on his 30-year history with Ruegg – noting her contributions to mastitis research excellence, outreach mentorship and service. “She has a long history as a champion for milk quality, while selflessly giving her time and effort to numerous professional organizations,” he commented. Plus, she has served NMC in numerous roles, including president, regional meeting and annual meeting speaker, regional meeting and annual meeting short course instructor, research committee and nominating committee.
NMC: The Global Milk Quality Organization is a non-profit professional organization devoted to reducing mastitis and enhancing milk quality. NMC promotes research and provides science-based information to the dairy industry on udder health, milking management, milk quality, animal welfare and food safety. Founded in 1961, NMC has about 1,000 members in more than 40 countries throughout the world.
