When Emily Mullen graduated from college and returned home to take over the reins of her family’s dairy operation in Okeana, Ohio, she was on a mission: modernize the operation and transform it into a state-of-the art facility that set a new standard for dairy farming in her community.
The path to achieving her vision began with investment in a new livestock facility with a robotic milker that would allow Emily and her family to reduce labor needs while enhancing animal welfare.
“Our robotic milking system showcases the science and technology of modern farming while enhancing my herd's comfort, and allowing for more effective management,” Emily explained.
With this new technology in place, Emily was able to direct additional time toward the addition of a creamery to the operation.
Today, Mullen’s Dairy and Creamery is well on its way to fulfilling Emily’s original vision. The creamery produces more than 30 flavors of milk and 25 scented products, and has entered partnerships with local businesses, like Crumbl Cookies.
Meanwhile, the farm has become an agritourism hub, hosting tours and community events like calf yoga that engage a growing number of consumers with agriculture. Her efforts have not only modernized her family’s dairy operation but are working to inspire a new generation of future farmers.
When the local 4-H dairy program was discontinued, she offered her operation to 17 children interested in raising a dairy heifer for the local fair. Mullen described this experience as “.. my most fulfilling leadership role to date, allowing me to help children who otherwise would not have had such opportunities discover a passion for the agriculture industry and find a sense of belonging within it.” All 17 students successfully showcased their animals.
Emily was recently recognized for her exceptional leadership, community involvement, and innovative practices by Farm Credit Mid-America. In January, she was awarded the cooperative’s Forward Thinker Award. This prestigious award, part of the Growing Forward® program, provides recipients with $5,000, a personalized plaque, and recognition at one of its Know to Grow conferences.
Applications for the next Forward Thinker Award will open in late 2025, inviting young and beginning farmers like Emily to showcase their contributions to the agriculture industry.
Click play to hear more about Emily's story.
