Denise Mullinax Joins California Dairy Research Foundation As Manager Of California Dairy Quality Assurance Program

Davis, CA - The California Dairy Research Foundation (CDRF) recently announced the appointment of Denise Mullinax as assistant director of the California Dairy Quality Assurance Program (CDQAP). Mullinax comes to the CDRF from Hilmar Cheese Company where she worked on environmental issues, biosecurity, milk quality and risk management.

A California native, Mullinax grew up on the Central Coast and received her bachelor's degree in animal science and master's of agriculture management from UC Davis. She spent two years as a UC Cooperative Extension advisor before joining Hilmar Cheese Company in 1998 as producer education coordinator. Her most recent position at Hilmar was dairy environmental and quality coordinator.

"Denise has been instrumental to the success of the CDQAP since its inception ­ educating Hilmar dairymen about program modules, giving important insight in the development of tools and workshops, and administering Hilmar's incentive program for producers who completed the environmental stewardship certification," said CDQAP program director, Michael Payne. "Her deep industry ties and intimate knowledge of the program will be a tremendous asset as we grow."

"I have greatly enjoyed working with Hilmar producers to manage the issues that affect their business like the environment, farm security, food safety and animal welfare. This new position gives me an opportunity to support all California producers," said Mullinax. "Our industry is being faced with many important regulatory, public perception and food protection issues. The CDQAP can provide good solid solutions and support to assist producers in meeting these new challenges."

As assistant director, she will work with CDQAP director Michael Payne to develop and deliver curriculum, conduct needs assessments and create and leverage partnerships to extend producer funding to administer CDQAP modules in Environmental Stewardship, Johne's Disease Control, Farm Security and Animal Welfare.

"The CDQAP represents a strong education arm for the CDRF, addressing the issues important to consumer confidence in the state's dairy products," said Joseph O'Donnell, executive director of the CDRF. "Denise is uniquely qualified to work with producers in achieving the goals of the program. We're lucky to have her on board."

"After nine years, the CDQAP has built a strong foundation and reputation among producers and the regulatory community as an effective program for producer education and regulatory compliance assistance," said Mullinax. I'm looking forward to working with Mike to expand all program modules so dairymen can utilize the program's tools to proactively and effectively manage external issues so they can get back to their core business of dairying."

SOURCE: The California Dairy Research Foundation (CDRF)