Donna Amaral-Phillips

Donna Amaral-Phillips serves as an extension professor and dairy specialist at the University of Kentucky, where she has significantly contributed to dairy education and youth development for over three decades. She coordinates the national North American Invitational 4-H Dairy Quiz Bowl and designs hands-on learning experiences for Kentucky 4-H participants, focusing on dairy nutrition and farm management practices.

Her research and extension interests center on dairy science, animal nutrition, and youth engagement in agriculture. Through her programs, she has empowered countless young individuals to pursue careers in the dairy industry by providing practical knowledge and fostering critical thinking about dairy management.

Awarded the 2024 Hoard's Dairyman Youth Development Award by the American Dairy Science Association, Dr. Amaral-Phillips is celebrated for her dedication to mentoring dairy youth and enhancing their understanding of the science and business of dairy farming.

She also mentors undergraduate and graduate students at the University of Kentucky, preparing them to work effectively with dairy producers and industry professionals in addressing real-world challenges.