Karen ScanlonVice President, SustainabilityInnovation Center for U.S. DairyDairy Management Inc.West Lafayette, Indiana


What education are you bringing with you to this position?

  • Bachelor of Science in journalism from University of Florida
  • Master of Science in natural resources management from The Ohio State University
  • Nearly two decades of working with agriculture and conservation

Please describe your agricultural background.
While I do not have a family connection to agriculture (I grew up in the suburbs, from the Midwest to the South), I have worked for and around agriculture since 1997. Most of that time, my focus has been on increasing adoption of conservation cropping systems that are profitable and productive while protecting and improving natural resources.

What territory will you cover?
U.S.

What are your new responsibilities?
I’ll be working to cultivate and strengthen partnerships for dairy sustainability. For example, I will represent the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy at Field to Market, The Alliance for Sustainable Agriculture. I will also lead the continual development of tools and metrics for gauging dairy’s continuous improvement in stewardship and sustainability.

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What previous positions have you held?
For the last 10 years, I was executive director of the Conservation Technology Information Center, a national not-for-profit organization promoting conservation in agriculture.

Who has made the biggest impact on your career?
My four kids. Through their curiosity, their goals and their energy, they inspire me to work hard and work for what I believe in.

How will you be of most help to producers in your region or area of expertise?
I’ll be working to engage dairy producers and dairy partners in collaborative efforts to measure, improve and communicate dairy’s role in a sustainable food system.

Why did you choose this company?
Through the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy, DMI has a unique role in establishing the dairy industry as a national leader in sustainable agriculture. I’m excited to be part of a team that uses science to drive decisions, values partnerships and strives for innovative solutions.  PD