Gabriella A. Varga

Dr. Gabriella A. Varga served as University Distinguished Professor of Animal Science at Penn State University from 1985 until her retirement in 2013, establishing herself as a leading expert in dairy cattle nutrition and management. Her academic journey began with a BS in Biology from Duquesne University, followed by an MS in Animal Science from the University of Rhode Island and a PhD from the University of Maryland. Her research focused on developing management strategies for dairy cows during critical transition periods, particularly studying late gestation and early postpartum phases to minimize metabolic disorders and enhance farm profitability. Throughout her career, she made significant contributions to understanding nitrogen balance, ammonia emissions from manure, and feeding efficiency in dairy cattle. Her excellence in both research and teaching was recognized through numerous awards, including the American Feed Industry Award from the American Dairy Science Association and the College of Agricultural Science Nesbitt Award. Even after retirement, she continues to contribute to the field by coaching the PSU Dairy Challenge team and participating in dairy profit teams throughout Pennsylvania, demonstrating her ongoing commitment to both education and the dairy industry