WHAT’S INSIDE
BEYOND THE BARN
4
Building on Community, Confidence and Connection in the NJHA.
6 THE LASTING IMPACT OF THE NJHA
Reflections from Taylor Miller, Blake Bruns and Ivan Blume.
8 CAN YOU BE OUTSTANDING?
A highlight of the Outstanding State Junior Members of the NJHA.
11 MEET-UP WITH THE NJHA
A highlight of the different events the NJHA holds throughout the year, including the NJHA Meet-Up.
12 THE GRAND DADDY OF ‘EM ALL
The 25th VitaFerm® Junior National Hereford Expo in photos.
18
A HIGHLIGHT IN FUNDRAISING
Look back at the past year and the incredible support the NJHA has had for its programs.
20 HEREFORD HIGHLIGHT
The past six months of Hereford Highlights.
2024 FACES OF LEADERSHIP
24
“Even Leadership is Bigger in Texas,” in photos.
A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE ON FACES
25
An attendees perspective and insight into the 2024 Faces of Leadership conference.
NJHA FED STEER SHOOTOUT
27
Statistics and reports from the 2024 NJHA Fed Steer Shootout program.
STARS OF THE SHOOTOUT
Creating connections year round as the Bridging the Gap College and Career Fair grows.
14 BRIDGING THE GAP: CREATING CONNECTIONS
28
Learn about the NJHA Fed Steer Shootout from the juniors who topped the 2023 contest.
Hereford cattle and National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA) members stand tall during the VitaFerm® Junior National Hereford Expo, 25 year celebration event, in Grand Island, Neb., July 6-12, 2024, the Grand Daddy of ‘Em All
by Lauren Gatz
Building Community, Confidence and Connections
NJHA MEMBERSHIP CHAIR
What do you think of when you hear the term, Hereford family? Maybe it’s the excitement of traveling to the VitaFerm® Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE), the thrill of being in the showring or the familiar faces you see at every event.
FELLOWSHIP AT FACES OF LEADERSHIP
For juniors like Kristin Waters, Norborne, Mo., and Tymber Billman, Rigby, Idaho, the Hereford family is about so much more than just showing cattle. It’s about the lasting connections and friendships they’ve made through National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA) programs like Faces of Leadership and Pen to Pen.
Waters had been looking forward to attending Faces of Leadership for years.
“My cousins had gone before me, and so many of my older friends had talked about it,” she said.
Now, after attending two Faces of Leadership conferences, she understands why it is such a special event for Hereford juniors.
Faces of Leadership has given me another opportunity to reconnect with friends I’ve made and meet even more Hereford kids.
- Tymber Billman, Rigby, Idaho -
“I understand how my cousins made so many connections,” Waters said. “Being able to go to Faces of Leadership gives you so many more opportunities to connect with people outside of the barns and junior nationals.”
Billman, who has attended the past three Faces of Leadership conferences, also values the friendships she’s built.
“Every time I attend junior nationals, I meet the coolest people, but never have much time to truly get to know them,” Billman said. “Faces of Leadership has given me another opportunity to reconnect with the friends I’ve made and meet even more Hereford kids.”
Billman also appreciates that Faces of Leadership has taught her valuable communication skills and allowed her to make connections with people she may not have met otherwise.
“It’s so neat that we can come from all across the country for a few days not knowing each other at all, and then go home with friendships for a lifetime,” she said.
Waters’ and Billman’s experiences highlight how NJHA programs foster relationships that extend well beyond the showring. They’ve both noticed how these friendships continue to grow, even outside of their Hereford circle.
“This summer I got to see my Hereford friends at the FFA Washington Leadership Conference, which was so cool,” Waters said. “No matter where you are, you can almost always find someone from the Hereford breed.”
“The connections I’ve made in the Hereford industry have shaped me into the person I am today,” Billman said. “I wouldn’t be where I am without the great people of this breed.”
FINDING CONFIDENCE AT PEN TO PEN
The NJHA mentorship program, Pen to Pen, pairs younger juniors with more experienced members. Through the program, younger members find the confidence to break out of their shells.
“I was very shy and didn’t know very many kids, but Pen to Pen changed me,” Billman said, “I was so inspired by the board members and my mentor that I wanted to run for the board someday.”
I always feel included, no matter what activity I’m doing, as long as I’m with my Hereford friends.
- Kristin Waters, Norborne, Mo.-
Now as a mentor herself, she gets to help juniors have similar experiences.
“It’s so exciting to witness kids like me come in a little shy, and then light up because they’ve made a new friend,” Billman said. “It is amazing to see how excited they are to meet again at the next event.”
Waters has also seen the impact of Pen to Pen.
Being able to connect with other juniors across the country made me feel more confident and part of something bigger,” she said. “I really looked up to my mentors and I hope I can be a positive influence for the younger kids I get to mentor now.”
These programs have helped Waters and Billman form friendships and contributed to their own personal growth and success, impacting them both inside and outside the showring.
“These people are always cheering me on,” Billman said. “They inspire me to do my best, work hard and persevere.”
Waters’ advice to juniors looking to attend Faces of Leadership or get involved in Pen to Pen is simple: “Put yourself out there,” she said. “People in the Hereford breed are so friendly, I always feel included, no matter what activity I am doing, as long as I’m with my Hereford friends.”
THE LASTING IMPACT OF THE NJHA
Reflections from Taylor Miller, Blake Bruns and Ivan Blume
by Isaac Rhode NJHA DIRECTOR
The National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA) has had a huge impact on the lives of many young people, shaping them not only as future leaders in the Hereford breed, but also as individuals with strong character and lasting friendships. Below, three NJHA members each share their personal journeys and the impact the NJHA has had on their lives, offering valuable advice to younger members looking to make the most of their experience.
TAYLOR MILLER: LOOKING BACK WITH NO REGRETS
For Taylor Miller, Nixa, Mo., the NJHA has been a cornerstone of her personal development. Reflecting on her years as a junior Hereford member, she says, “Eight-year-old me had no idea how fast my years as a junior Hereford member would fly by.” The association gave her the opportunity to form lifelong friendships and helped her grow into her best self.
Miller emphasizes the importance of not letting fear hold you back. Her advice to younger members is simple but powerful, “Don’t waste time, pursue what scares you and build on your strengths.” She says it all goes by quickly, urging others to take advantage of every moment. Her time with the NJHA not only shaped her character but also taught her to take opportunities and have no regrets.
BLAKE BRUNS: GUIDED BY MENTORSHIP & INVOLVEMENT
Blake Bruns, North Platte, Neb., talks about his personal and professional growth that are a product of the NJHA’s unwavering support and mentorship. From his first experience at the 2015 VitaFerm® Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE) in Grand Island, Neb., where he and his family were welcomed with open arms, to the mentorship he received from older junior members and adult breeders,
the NJHA has played a key role in his life.
“The exceptional mentorship and guidance have left a lasting impact,” Bruns says, highlighting the genuine care breeders and board members have for the next generation. Bruns says the educational opportunities provided by the NJHA, including leadership conferences like Faces of Leadership and educational programs like the NJHA Fed Steer Shootout, pushed him outside of his comfort zone and helped him set and achieve goals. His advice to younger members is to dream big, set lofty goals, and always ask for help when needed. He also stresses the importance of gratitude, reminding members to thank their families, mentors and everyone who has invested in their success.
IVAN BLUME: RELATIONSHIPS, COURAGE AND THE ROAD AHEAD
For Ivan Blume, Redfield, S.D., the NJHA has been life-changing, offering not only lifelong friendships but also connections with industry leaders that have set the foundation for his future. “The relationships we develop with our peers early on are key to the future success of the breed and our personal journeys,” he says.
Blume’s advice to younger members is to get involved and build relationships, even if the purpose isn’t immediately clear. Looking back, he’s thankful for the experiences that guided him toward the path he’s on today. His second piece of advice centers around courage. Quoting Hereford legend, John Wayne, he reminds members that “Courage is being scared to death, but saddling up anyway,” persevering no matter what. He encourages them to pull on their boots, tighten their cinch and enjoy the ride ahead.
For Miller, Bruns and Blume, the NJHA has been much more than just a resume builder. It’s been a lifeshaping experience. From personal growth to developing meaningful relationships and accessing valuable mentorship, each of them has benefited in ways they could have never imagined. Their advice to younger members: embrace every opportunity, build relationships, show gratitude and always face challenges with courage. The NJHA is not just about the showring, it’s about building a foundation for life.
CAN YOU BE OUT STAN DING?
A Highlight of the Outstanding State Junior Members of the National Junior Hereford Association.
by Logan McFatridge NJHA CHAIRMAN
“O
utstanding” describes somebody who stands out among a crowd. What makes our Outstanding State Junior Members, who were recognized at the VitaFerm® Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE), excel above the rest? I visited with three of these outstanding juniors — Carlee Musser, Otterbein, Ind.; Conner McArthur, Pittsford, Mich.; and Jalyn Davis, Maple Hill, Kan. — to learn more. These three young people have been extremely active in their state associations as well as the National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA), participating in contests, leadership conferences and exhibiting cattle at all levels.
Musser studies agribusiness and finance at Purdue University. She grew up showing Herefords alongside her family, and she is currently the president of the Indiana Junior Hereford Association.
Musser has been extremely active in the NJHA, and she encourages other junior members wanting to be more involved to take an active role in their state association and ask to be a voting delegate during JNHE. “I have been fortunate enough to meet so many individuals from the events as a voting delegate,” she says. “I also loved getting to compete in the contests to become more involved. I got to meet and compete against so many new friends in the Hereford bowl contest as well as in the judging competition.”
NJHA offers its members many educational experiences, such as contests and leadership opportunities, at many different levels. Getting involved is also a great way to make connections — you never know who you might meet.
McArthur is a junior at the University of Finlay studying animal science/industry. He started showing Herefords competitively about four years ago. McArthur jumped into his state’s association with enthusiasm — already serving as the Michigan Junior Hereford Association president. McArthur attended Faces of Leadership and the Building On Leadership Development (BOLD) conference, which gave him tools to step into his leadership roles.
McArthur offers this advice to new members: “If you are new, don’t be afraid to approach people, introduce yourself and get to know them because they were all in your shoes at one point.”
Everybody starts somewhere; this author remembers being a nervous 7-year-old who was scared to try new things, but 14 years later and I am part of one of the most prestigious junior boards in the country — NJHA.
Davis is a sophomore at Butler Community College. She studies agribusiness and is a member of the livestock judging team. Davis is a fourth-generation Hereford breeder and the Kansas Hereford Queen.
“Being a fourth generation Hereford breeder, I would say my dad and grandpas were some of my biggest mentors. They gave me my love and passion for this breed,” Davis says. “As I got older, someone that I looked up to was Taylor Belle Matheny (American Hereford Association director of communications and digital content). She was a great leader, and her path in the Hereford breed was something I admired and wanted to achieve myself.”
These are great examples of how mentors can be found within your family and made through organizations. The Hereford family is full of amazing mentors waiting to offer advice to junior members willing to listen and learn. The junior board incorporates mentorship opportunities, such as Pen-to-Pen program, into the NJHA because we believe mentors are important to have in the industry.
These three Outstanding State Junior Members were once new members, but they have grown to the point where their peers recognize them on a national level. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and get active within the NJHA. There are many opportunities and experiences, which will set you apart in the future, such as competing in contests, building a network and attending leadership conferences across the country to hear from industry leaders.
The best way to stand out in a crowd is to be involved. Do the little things that others aren’t willing to do. I would encourage everybody — both young and old — to take chances in your leadership career. You, too, can be outstanding.
MEET-UP WITH THE NJHA
A highlight of the different events the NJHA holds throughout the year, and what you stand to gain from participating.
by Harlee Watson NJHA LEADERSHIP CHAIR
How lucky we are to have the opportunity to be raised in an industry that provides lifelong friendships and connections. The Hereford community is like no other and the feeling of belonging and family are second to none. However, growing up as a firstgeneration Hereford breeder in a smaller state association can be scary and intimidating when attending the different National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA) events, such as the VitaFerm® Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE).
I felt like I was truly able to find my place in the NJHA at my first Faces of Leadership conference. Activities such as the Faces of Leadership and BOLD conferences and the NJHA Meet-Up provide smaller scale opportunities to develop your personal leadership skills, build connections and make lifelong friends. The NJHA is dedicated to providing events for members to build themselves, fostering their growth.
The second annual NJHA Meet-Up is a highly anticipated event that brings together junior members of all ages from across the country. This gathering includes fun activities and games that help junior members get to know each other and continue to grow friendships and build connections they created at other events throughout the year.
The NJHA Meet-Up will be held during the American Hereford Association (AHA) Annual Meeting and Educational Forum in Kansas City, Mo., Oct. 25 at 5 p.m. The event will be packed with a variety of activities designed to engage and connect members across the nation.
Any NJHA member exhibiting at the American Royal Livestock Show or attending the AHA Annual Meeting is invited to take part in the fun. This event goes beyond the showring and provides an outlet for NJHA members to participate in an event that typically caters to the adult membership.
NJHA member Josie Mares, Glenrock, Wyo., has been showing Hereford cattle for two years and attended the NJHA Meet-Up last year.
“I really enjoyed the Meet-Up and getting to know someone new as well as interact with some of the NJHA board members,” Mares said.
Getting to interact with members of all ages made it all the more fun.
- Josie Mares, Glenrock, Wyo. -
“I think it’s a great thing to keep doing to allow junior members to make new connections with one another and get to know the junior board.”
Mares also says, “Getting to interact with members of all ages made it all the more fun.”
The focus of the NJHA Meet-Up is to build upon connection, confidence and community. While building a pipeline of future leaders, as outlined in the AHA strategic plan, these words help us hone in on the future we envision the NJHA having. The NJHA has had an amazing year, from BOLD and Hereford Homeroom sessions at state and regional shows to “The Grand Daddy of ’Em All” and Faces of Leadership. Building upon connection, confidence and community has been at the forefront of them all.
Just like Mares, all junior members in attendance had a great time interacting with each other.
Kendall Boatman, Rockford, Ill., is a sixth generation Hereford breeder who also attended last year’s NJHA MeetUp. Boatman says “It is important that younger kids have the opportunity to make connections with older kids.’’
We have another great event planned for this year’s NJHA Meet-Up. You will have the opportunity to make new friends, learn line dances and write to pen pals from the Pen-to-Pen event at the Junior National Hereford Expo. There will be stations to foster the pillars of confidence, community and connection. Come and go as you please and join us at the Downtown Marriott Hotel for the second annual NJHA Meet-Up.
The VitaFerm® Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE) provides an opportunity for competition of junior members and their cattle projects, along with plenty of events for the entire family. The 2024 VitaFerm JNHE was held July 6-12, in Grand Island, Neb. The “Grand Daddy of ‘Em All,” embraced and celebrated the 25th year of the event, focusing on the history of an event that has impacted generations.
BRIDGING THE GAP:
CREATING CONNECTIONS YEAR-ROUND
The Bridging the Gap College and Career Fair is growing beyond the Junior National Hereford Expo.
by Salem Sifford NJHA COMMUNICATIONS CHAIR
“What’s next for you?” Whether you are a senior in high school or a college student, you’ve probably been asked this question. The Bridging the Gap college and career fair has helped young people find their answers since its inception at the 2019 VitaFerm® Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE). This year, the event expanded and was added to the Faces of Leadership conference schedule, as well.
Bridging the Gap links company and university representatives with junior members, forming connections and encouraging young people to explore further education, college programs, internships and future career opportunities.
With two Bridging the Gap events held this year — at JNHE and Faces of Leadership conference — attendees continue conversations with connections and form deeper relationships with representatives from colleges and agricultural companies. Bringing Bridging the Gap to Faces of Leadership also allowed the National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA) to expand its reach. The Faces of Leadership conference, known for its focus on developing leadership skills and fostering personal growth, provided a great platform and area to expand upon Bridging the Gap. By integrating this career-focused event into the conference, the association increased the value of both events.
“It is a great opportunity to explore different careers within our industry. It also gives juniors a chance to meet and connect with industry professionals that can help you pursue a career,” said Kendall Boatman, Rockford, Ill. “You never know, you might end up working with them one day, just because of having a simple conversation.”
Boatman has attended Bridging the Gap at the JNHE for several years and the 2024 Faces of Leadership conference. “I like attending these events because I am able to explore different careers and opportunities within the agricultural industry.”
As the JNHE and Faces of Leadership conference move locations each year, it encourages different companies and colleges to attend. This has allowed for a wide variety of companies and colleges to be offered to attendees, forming connections across the nation. This past summer the JNHE was hosted in Grand Island, Neb., and the Faces of Leadership conference was held in Fort Worth, Texas. Both events, while structured similarly, included different professional representatives and approaches.
Today, several NJHA alums even serve as college and company representatives at Bridging the Gap events. Former NJHA chairman Tar Tut now serves as a territory manager for Merck Animal Health and represented his company during the Faces of Leadership conference. In this full-circle moment, Tut offered Bridging the Gap attendees with advice on landing internships and taking advantage of the association’s opportunities to garner unique experiences and perspectives to set them apart from their peers.
By offering this event at both JNHE and Faces of Leadership, the association can help connect industry professionals with Hereford youth of all ages and stages — bridging the gap between their experiences as a NJHA member and their future careers.
“The most significant difference between these two events (JNHE’s and Faces of Leadership’s Bridging the Gap) lies in the audience they cater to. One event is designed for individuals of all ages, while the other focuses more specifically on high-school to college-aged students. Both offer unique highlights and opportunities,” Tut said. “Having been a participant in one and more recently a speaker at the other, I’ve seen firsthand the excitement and engagement from attendees, especially the younger crowd. Even though I’m only a year removed from being a participant myself, it’s amazing to see the growth and difference that just one year can make.”
As highlighted by participants, like Boatman and Tut, Bridging the Gap empowers juniors to explore career paths, gather insights and ultimately make informed decisions about their next steps.
The most significant difference between the two events (JNHE’s and Faces of Leadership’s Bridging the Gap) lies in the audience they cater to.
One event is designed for individuals of all ages, while the other focuses more specifically on high-school to college-aged students. Both offer unique highlights and opportunities.
- Tar Tut, Merck Animal Health -
DECEMBER 18-20, 2024
Thanks to an outpouring of support from Hereford breeders, donors and friends, the Hereford Youth Foundation of America (HYFA) generated an amazing $284,000, during the 2023 Hereford Season of Giving. These funds went right to work building all of HYFA’s pillars.
A HIGHLIGHT ON FUNDRAISING
by Sam Birdsall NJHA FUNDRAISING CHAIR
Scholarship, Leadership, Education and Research — these four pillars not only guide the Hereford Youth Foundation of America (HYFA), but they are also the values the National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA) board of directors shares with our membership. We let these four pillars guide our actions, but it would not be possible without the generous support of sponsors and donors. The NJHA has been fortunate in 2024 with many successful fundraising campaigns — thanks to the support of donors.
SUCCESS AT THE JNHE
We celebrated the “Grand Daddy of ’Em All,” in a truly memorable way with live auction lots during the HYFA Scholarship, Awards and Maroon Jacket Ceremony, Thursday, July 11. Michelle Weber Studio graciously shared her artistic talents by creating four stunning paintings for the NJHA and the 25th event of the JNHE. One of these beautiful paintings was auctioned as a special sale highlight during the ceremony and purchased by our generous supporter, GKB Cattle, Desdemona, Texas. The additional three paintings will be sold as a “Pick of the Paintings” during the Ladies of the Royal Sale in Kansas City, Mo., along with other opportunities to take her art home for yourself. The winning bid will pick which painting they want to take home, while the other paintings will benefit the National Hereford Women and their leadership and scholarship program.
The “Grand Daddy of ’Em All” in Grand Island, Neb., marked the 25th anniversary of the Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE). As we honored the past, we also set the stage for the next 25 years of sustaining the event’s legacy. HYFA and the NJHA launched the Grand Drive to 25 campaign, which exceeded expectations. Customizable donor packages and program advertisements garnered significant support. These contributions were all designed to last beyond 2024 and the 25th anniversary event. We were also able to use our supporter Sale Day’s “Buy Now” feature to streamline the JNHE division sponsorships. Thanks to everyone’s contributions, the event was a resounding success, ensuring a bright future for the JNHE.
The 2024 Hereford Sale of Champions was also a remarkable success, raising $100,000 for the 25th JNHE. This record-setting online sale celebrated the rich legacy of Hereford families and champion genetics, featuring offerings such as flushes and embryo lots from past JNHE champions.
It underscored the unwavering dedication of the Hereford community to support its youth and ensure the future of the breed. The funds raised through the sale will contribute to the long-term success of the JNHE, helping sustain its mission for years to come. The NJHA expresses deep gratitude to all consignors, buyers and supporters for their generous contributions to this important cause.
Another way that the event was memorialized was an offering 25 exclusive, signature wine bottles. Each bottle featured the 25 past JNHE locations, making them a unique and cherished keepsake for our senior association members to treasure long into the future. We are so thankful to Deana Jak Farms Inc., for kicking off the sale by purchasing the first wine bottle up front, and helping us reach the goal of $25,000 raised for Hereford youth during the HYFA Scholarship, Awards and Maroon Jacket evening in Grand Island, Neb.
The NJHA is incredibly grateful for the time and effort that Michelle Weber and the gracious supporters devoted to our fundraising efforts and memorializing this historic event, as well as the generous support of the buyers at this year’s auction.
WHAT’S IT FOR?
The funds we raise throughout the year are essential for supporting a variety of activities that benefit our members and enhance their leadership development. Different fundraising events throughout the year, enable us to host key leadership conferences such as Faces of Leadership and the BOLD conference, providing valuable experiences for personal growth and professional development. Moreover, through the State Leadership and Education Grants created in 2023, the funds will help provide financial assistance to members who wish to attend leadership conferences but may not have the means to do so, ensuring greater access to these impactful programs. Thanks to the generous contributions of our supporters, these efforts continue to foster the next generation of leaders in the Hereford breed and the agricultural community.
THE GRAND DRIVE TO 25
As we wrap up the year, our fundraising efforts have been highlighted by a highly successful calendar sponsorship sale. This initiative garners enthusiastic support and showcases the dedication of our community to our cause. Looking ahead, we’re also preparing for the annual Hereford Season of Giving in December. This festive period provides an opportunity for additional contributions and support within the donor’s specific goals and parameters, further fueling our mission and enhancing our programs. These events not only raise crucial funds, but also foster a strong sense of community and commitment, ensuring we can continue to support and develop the future leaders of our organization.
The year 2024 has been marked by extraordinary achievements, thanks to the unwavering support of our sponsors, donors and community. The Grand Drive to 25 and the Sale of Champions have been pivotal in advancing our mission and ensuring the continued success of the VitaFerm® JNHE. Our fundraising efforts, including the live auction and seasonal initiatives, have not only provided crucial resources, but have also strengthened our sense of unity and purpose. As we look to the future, we remain committed to the pillars of Scholarship, Leadership, Education and Research, and we know that our collective efforts will continue to foster the growth and development of the next generation of leaders in the Hereford breed.
MARCH, 2024
KOBLE LEWIS , Ryan, Okla.
Koble is a Hereford junior who is highly involved with the breed and works hard at what he chooses to pursue. Active in both the Junior Hereford Association of Oklahoma and the National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA), Koble has attended and participated in programs at both the Junior National Hereford Expo and Faces of Leadership Conference.
APRIL, 2024
GAVIN RHODE, Stewartsville, Mo.
Gavin attends the University of Missouri-Columbia, studying agricultural business management. Following his undergraduate degree, he has hopes of attending law school and pursuing a career in estate and succession planning. He is an active Hereford junior who is highly involved within both his state and the national organization and was recently elected as the Missouri State FFA Secretary.
MAY, 2024
MADDIE WEABER, Wamego, Kan.
Maddie attends Oklahoma State University to major in animal science with large goals of pursuing even higher education in beef production and genetics. Maddie is an active member of the NJHA, having attended multiple Faces of Leadership conferences as well as being an attendee of the 2024 BOLD leadership conference. She has held many different leadership roles within the Kansas Junior Hereford Association and continues to strive further towards her goals.
JUNE, 2024
SAMANTHA CAMPBELL , Eaton, Colo.
Campbell attends Kansas State University majoring in animal science. She has maintained her active involvement in the Hereford breed, including being named polled premier exhibitor at the 2024 National Western Stock Show. In 2010, Samantha and her family started Samantha Campbell Herefords, specializing in raising registered Hereford cattle with a focus on breeding and selling high quality bulls and replacement heifers.
JULY, 2024
SARA HARFST, Sheridan, Wyo.
Sara is in her final year as a National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA) member and will be competing for the final time at the 2024 VitaFerm Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE). Once she finishes her junior career, she already has plans to transition and engage as the new state advisor for the Wyoming Junior Hereford Association. Sara’s nominator said, “Her hard work with endless hours in the barn, passion and commitment to her Hereford herd has changed her life, influenced youth in her community and will continue as an adult.”
AUGUST, 2024
AIDYN BARBER , Channing, Texas
Aidyn has been a member of the National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA) and both Texas junior associations for ten years, holding multiple leadership positions and was recently elected to serve as president of Texas Junior Hereford Association and serves as a director on the Texas Junior Polled Hereford Association. Aidyn was nominated and singled out due to her heavy involvement and success, both during the 2024 Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE) as well as the 2024 Faces of Leadership conference.
MARCH 5, 2025
v Make sure to capitalize on this unique sale that supports the VitaFerm® Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE). With highlight lots from past JNHE Champions, to unique opportunities available to prepare for the 2025 JNHE, we’re getting ready to be “Live in Louisville.”
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The Faces of Leadership conference is designed to help National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA) members hone communications, team-building and other skills essential to becoming effective leaders. This year, 115 members from 25 states attended the conference hosted in Fort Worth, Texas, July 28-31 where “Even Leadership is Bigger in Texas.”
FACES OF LEADERSHIP
by Kaylee McInvale NJHA DIRECTOR
My home state proved “Even Leadership is Bigger in Texas,” with the Faces of Leadership conference hosted in Fort Worth, Texas, this year. Maddie Weaber, Wamego, Kan., shared her perspective on this annual event. This was Weaber’s third Faces of Leadership conference.
“Building young leaders in the Hereford breed is the main objective of the event, and I know firsthand how much leadership growth I’ve had each summer,” Weaber said. “We are taught how to communicate with others, connect with professionals and most importantly, the value of being a good leader.”
This year, attendees visited Texas Christian University (TCU) Ranch Management, Allflex USA, the Cowboy Channel and the Texas Rangers Stadium, in addition to hearing many keynote speakers, from cattle rancher Matt Rush to Fort Worth’s mayor Mattie Parker.
The National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA) board welcomed attendees to the event with a game of Top Golf and Rush’s rousing speech about approaching the days ahead. “While I learned that a career in golf is not in my future,” Weaber laughed. “It was so much fun to spend the evening laughing and spending quality time with everyone.”
Tours of Allflex USA and the Global Life Field, the home of the Texas Rangers, captivated attendees, and even the Cowboy Channel opened their studio to give participants a rare behind-the-scenes look. “The Allflex tour was so interesting to me, especially learning how the machines that create the tags worked,” Weaber said. “The [Globe Life Field tour] guide for my group was so entertaining, even those of us who weren’t baseball fans were amazed at all the facts and stories he shared with us.”
This year, Faces of Leadership included Bridging the Gap, a college and career fair that was originally hosted during the Junior National Hereford Expo. By expanding the number of Bridging the Gap events offered to NJHA members, the association encourages attendees to make valuable connections for their future education and careers. “The NJHA has provided us with so many unique experiences and juniors have the chance to experience a career fair-like environment as early high school and college students,” Weaber said.
Bridging the Gap was just one way that attendees explored future career paths, though. Career showcase panelists Wade Perks, Brie Whitehead Perks and Jon Taggart joined Hereford juniors at TCU’s Ranch Management program for breakfast to talk about their career paths. “These individuals demonstrated their journey throughout their careers,” Weaber said. “Showing us that you may not end up where you first envisioned, but the opportunities are endless to lead you to a job you truly love.”
Wade Perks and Brie Whitehead Perks are NJHA alums. The pair shared memories from their time as junior members and emphasized the value of the experiences and opportunities the association provides.
Merck Animal Health teamed up with the TCU Ranch Management team for a hands-on skills clinic, where conferences attendees learned about administering injections, implanting devices, palpating and artificial insemination. “This session was a wonderful way for us to learn valuable knowledge and experience in practices that many of us can take home to our operations,” Weaber said. “It was one of my favorite events of the conference.”
The Faces of Leadership conference came to a close in the historic Fort Worth Stock Yards. “Being from the Midwest, I don’t spend much time in Texas, so I was so excited to experience the stock yards (and find some good shopping),” Weaber said.
Haley Mouser, NJHA vice chairman, gave the closing address to the attendees at the famous Billy Bob’s Texas. She encouraged attendees to live in the moment and recognize the importance of their current chapter — just one of the many “hats” these young leaders will wear. “This keynote was such an impactful one and it helped me realize the importance of these conferences. The NJHA gives us the chance to grow and develop as people, but it is up to us as individuals to create that change,” Weaber said.
After the closing keynote address, attendees mingled and danced highlighting one of the most valuable parts of Faces of Leadership — the connections you make.
“The people in this association are like none other and truly care about every person involved. Throughout the years the NJHA has connected me with countless friends and potential employers and set me up for success in my career,” Weaber said. “If there is anything I can say to encourage members to get involved, let it be this: the Faces of Leadership conference will leave a lasting impact on you, and you will truly value what you learn through the week.”
STARS OF THE SHOOTOUT
Learn about the National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA) Fed Steer Shootout from the juniors who topped the 2023 contest.
by Haley Mouser NJHA VICE CHAIRMAN
Every fall, at the American Hereford Association (AHA) Annual Meeting and Educational Forum, interviews are held for the National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA) Fed Steer Shootout Junior of the Year award. After sending steers to HRC Feed Yards in Scott City, Kan., and receiving their Beef Quality Assurance certification, juniors can complete a portfolio outlining their experience and the performance of their cattle. The top three within each age division then compete as finalists for the title of Junior of the Year.
Topping the 2023 contest in the senior division were finalists Dellana Muck, Caledonia, Ill., Pecos Worrell, Harper, Texas, and Junior of the Year (Senior Division) Abigail (Billing) Vander Groef, Newton, N.J. In the junior division, finalists included Jayna Blume, Pierre, S.D., Jackson Chastain, Arlington, Texas, and Junior of the Year (Junior Division) Jarrett Worrell, Mason, Texas. Each of these juniors not only has a passion for the program, but they all have remarkably unique stories to tell about their experience, especially the 2023 Contestant of the Year recipients.
ENTERING FOR THE FIRST TIME
When Abigail (Billing) Vander Groef, Newton, N.J., entered a steer in the National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA) Fed Steer Shootout, it was her last eligible year to do so.
After attending the 2022 BOLD conference, Vander Groef gained a new perspective and excitement for what her future involvement in agriculture could be. She left the conference with a resolve to take advantage of every opportunity she could during her last two years as a junior, one of which was to participate in the NJHA Fed Steer
Shootout program, even if it meant shipping her steer 23 hours across the country to HRC Feed Yards in Scott City, Kan.
Fast forward to the fall, at the 2023 American Hereford Association (AHA) Annual Meeting and Educational Forum, where NJHA Fed Steer Shootout winners are recognized. After entering their steers and receiving their Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) certification, juniors compete for Contestant of the Year by completing a portfolio outlining their experience and the performance of their cattle. The top three individuals from each age division travel to the Annual Meeting for a final interview – Vander Groef being one of them. After the dust settled, she was named the Contestant of the Year in the senior division.
Throughout the year, Vander Groef learned firsthand the impacts of genetics and health on performance, how to analyze carcass data, the standards of Certified Hereford Beef®, the importance of the American Hereford Association’s blockchain project and much more. She was able to take the information she gained back to her role as show barn manager of Grass Pond Farms. Although her focus is raising show heifers, they also have a small feedyard and sell beef directly to the consumer.
Because of her involvement in the shootout, Vander Groef sees the importance of both sides of their operation in a new light and has since reevaluated the decisions she was making with her feeder calves. However, the connection with and understanding that she gained about the large-scale beef industry is what she values the most.
STACKING EXPERIENCE
Jarrett Worrell, Mason, Texas, 2023 Contestant of the Year in the junior division, also has a remarkably unique story to tell about his experience.
A long-time participant in the NJHA Fed Steer Shootout, having sent nearly 35 head of cattle over the past five years to Scott City, 2023 marked Worrell’s third consecutive year receiving the title.
Worrell is a champion for the real-world experience that this program offers. This past year, he decided to purchase steers with exceptional carcass EPDs to test their performance in the feedyard, which required him to approach a bank and take out a loan.
As a junior high school student, Worrell already understands the value of gaining real-world experiences and wants to use every possible opportunity within the contest to do so. Yet, while he values selecting steers, monitoring performance and attending the field day, he also recognizes the specific career skills that he can gain through completing the portfolio.
For the 2024 contest, the portfolio consisted of three essay questions, correlating to the different age divisions and learning possibilities. Contestants were also able to submit additional resources of their choosing with their portfolio.
I wish I had done it sooner. I wish I knew I had the opportunity to do it sooner because it really changed a lot of things for me.
- Abigail (Billing) Vander Groef, Newton, N.J.-
Worrell is competing again this year and always wants to set the bar high to stand out and make a connection with the judge who is reading his work. This can range from creating an extra table to analyzing his cattle’s performance or sharing a story about hauling the cattle to the feedyard.
The ability to summarize an experience, analyze results and develop possible solutions, and share that knowledge gained with others is a valuable part of the NJHA Fed Steer Shootout. Worrell knows that the knowledge he is gaining and experiences he has now are constantly shaping what his future career might be.
While both Vander Groef and Worrell were participants in the same program, their individual experiences and takeaways were completely different.
Since retiring as a NJHA member at the 2024 VitaFerm® Junior National Hereford Expo, Vander Groef stepped into the advisor role of the New Jersey Junior Hereford Breeders Association. She encourages her juniors to send a steer with the perspective that living in the less agriculturally dense area of the country should not be a barrier to being involved.
“I wish I did it sooner,” Vander Groef said. “I wish I knew I had the opportunity to do it sooner because it really changed a lot of things for me.”
The NJHA Fed Steer Shootout holds enormous potential to grow your knowledge and understanding of the beef industry through real-world situations. Nov. 1, 2024, is the entry deadline for the NJHA 2025 Fed Steer Shootout, and as these juniors testify, it’s worth it even if it means shipping a steer 23 hours or purchasing some to send. However, regardless of having a steer entered in the program, all juniors and families are encouraged to attend the annual NJHA Fed Steer Shootout Field Day April 11-12, 2025. The NJHA junior board is there for both the arrival week in December and the field day in the spring, and we would love to see you there and learning more about this portion of the beef industry.
2024-2025 | BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Logan McFatridge Otterbein, Ind. lrmcfatridge@gmail.com 765-769-6660
Sam Birdsall Torrington, Wyo. birdsall.sam04@gmail.com
Haley Mouser Tenstrike, Minn. msfherefords@gmail.com
Salem Sifford Goldvein, Va. ssifford366@gmail.com
Kaylee McInvale Cumby, Texas kayleemcinvale@gmail.com 903-336-8121
Lauren Gatz Fairview, Kan. lauren03g@gmail.com
Isaac Rhode Stewartsville, Mo. isaacrhode25@gmail.com 816-387-3405
Matt Bruns North Platte, Neb. mattbruns101@gmail.com 308-660-7183
Harlee Watson Flemingsburg, Ky. harleewatson1@gmail.com 606-748-3669
Emma Ballinger McKee, Ky. ballingereg@icloud.com 606-548-3520
Sarah Beth Callicott Only, Tenn. callicottsb@gmail.com 931-981-0131
Rylie Meinhardt Onaga, Kan. rjmeinhardt@gmail.com 785-562-6643
