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 Brattleboro, Vt., June 11, 2025 — The dairy industry at large is invited to attend the WKU SmartHolstein Lab Showcase on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at the L.D. Brown Ag Expo Center in Bowling Green, Kentucky. The event will highlight over 25 working technologies, insights from technology experts, and the 50-cow Registered Holstein® herd.
“The WKU SmartHolstein Lab gives us a unique perspective on the value of technology and data and how farmers can use the information provided to improve their bottom line,” says Dr. Jeffrey Bewley, Executive Director of Genetic Programs and Innovation at Holstein Association USA. “The showcase event will give dairy farmers and the greater dairy industry a chance to see this one-of-a-kind farm up close and hear insights from featured technology partners.”
The WKU SmartHolstein Lab Showcase will kick off at 10:00 a.m. Central Time with presentations from featured technology partners and an opportunity to interact and ask questions. The day will also include a farm tour of the herd at Western Kentucky University, where attendees will have a chance to see the technology in use.
The event is free and lunch is included thanks to the generous sponsorship of AgCentral, CPC Commodities, and Farm Credit. To register for the event visit bit.ly/smartholsteinshowcase and fill out the registration form. To see more information about the event, visit www.smartholstein.com/showcase.
The WKU SmartHolstein Lab in Bowling Green, Kentucky is located just 70 miles from Nashville, Tennessee and near Mammoth Cave National Park, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, and other local attractions.
About the WKU SmartHolstein Lab
The WKU SmartHolstein Lab is a partnership between Holstein Association USA and the Western Kentucky University Department of Agriculture and Food Science, designed to be a research, development, and demonstration center for the dairy industry. The WKU SmartHolstein Lab leads Holstein and dairy advancements through research, development, and outreach in technologies, analytics, and genetics. Learn more about the WKU SmartHolstein Lab at www.smartholstein.com.
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 Brattleboro, Vt., May 30, 2025 — This year’s Elite Breeder award recipients excel in consistently breeding Registered Holsteins® with exceptional production and components, tremendous udders, strength from end to end, and the ability to thrive in any environment. Holstein Association USA is delighted to recognize Denny and Beth, Matt, and Joe and Margaret Engel of Luck-E Holsteins as the 2025 Elite Breeder award recipients.
Luck-E Holsteins was started by Denny and Beth Engel over 50 years ago. Denny began building a handpicked herd of Registered Holsteins and was an early adopter of embryo transfer. Today, the farm is known worldwide for their elite genetics, as Matt and Joe continue to carry out the legacy started by their parents.
“It was all smiles when we got the phone call about the recognition,” Joe Engel says. “We know there are a lot of great breeders out there and be to be selected among the group of past recipients is just a huge, huge honor for us.”.
Matt and Joe concentrate on breeding cows with extreme width throughout, high-quality udders, high components, and superior health traits. They have steadily incorporated red, polled, and A2A2 genetics into the herd and use IVF technology to enhance their marketing and breeding strategies.
Some influential cows from the Luck-E herd include Luck-E Blitz Australia VG-87, Luck-E Advent Asia-ET EX-94 2E, Luck-E McGucci Afro EX-94, Luck-E Advent Kandie-Red EX-95 2E 96MS, Luck-E Royal Klassy EX-94, and Luck-E Linjet Twizzle EX-95.
The herd is impressive on many levels, with over 650 Excellent cows carrying the Luck-E prefix, 18 Gold Medal Dams and 28 Dams of Merit to date, and current heifer genomics averaging +2.58 PTA Type.
Equally remarkable is Matt and Joe’s ability to market Luck-E genetics. In addition to successful sales domestically, they’ve exported over 1,000 embryos. The farm is also a popular tour stop for Holstein enthusiasts from around the world, and they’ve hosted many international interns on the farm over the years.
Matt and Joe are thankful for the opportunities and encouragement given to them by their parents and dairy industry mentors.
“We've been really blessed to have a good start. We had wonderful mentors at the farm and at shows like Bill Beghorn, and we try to be the mentors for the next generation,” Matt Engel says. “If we can help you, we will, because so many people did it for us and we'll never be able to repay that. So, we're at least going to try.”
About The Award
The Elite Breeder award is bestowed annually upon a living Holstein Association USA member, family, partnership or corporation who has bred outstanding animals and made a notable contribution to the advancement of U.S. Registered Holsteins. Luck-E Holsteins will be recognized with the honor during the 2025 National Holstein Convention in St. Louis, Missouri.
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 Brattleboro, Vt., May 29, 2025 — Holstein Association USA’s 2025 Distinguished Leadership award recipient has worn many hats in the dairy industry over the years. Through his numerous roles, one thing has remained constant — Tom Morris has approached them all with dedication, service, and a genuine appreciation for the people in the dairy industry.
“I’m certainly honored and humbled to join the list that have gone before me with the Distinguished Leadership award,” Tom Morris says. “Certainly, a lot of them on the list were my mentors as I read down through them.”
Tom’s interest in the Registered Holstein® business started on his family’s southeast Wisconsin farm, Arwyn Farms, owned and operated by his father and uncle. He attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison to study Dairy Science and took home the high individual honor in the 1971 Intercollegiate Dairy Judging Contest at World Dairy Expo.
After graduating college, Tom took a position at Northwoods Technical College in New Richmond, Wisconsin. He joined two other young instructors and started the nine-month dairy herdsman program from the ground up.
In 1977, Tom and his wife Sandy established Deronda Farm. Along with their children Moriah and Adam, they built a select group of Registered Holstein cattle, concentrating on showing and merchandising. In a dozen years, they developed more than 200 Excellent cows and conducted three complete herd dispersals.
Throughout this time, Tom also worked as an associate with Alvin R. Piper’s International Holstein Sales. This spurred his interest in auctioneering, and in 1982, he formed Tom Morris Ltd., a sale management business. After partnering with Jim Hoskens Ltd. for the first few years, Tom and Sandy went on to manage over 500 Holstein auctions from coast to coast including nine National Holstein Convention sales and 35 World Classic Sales at World Dairy Expo.
Always in tune to marketing and merchandising dairy cattle, Tom and Sandy took their experiences in advertising to launch the Cattle Connection in 1990.
Tom has mentored the next generation in many ways, from coaching dairy judging teams to helping college dairy clubs conduct sales and auctioneering at the Polk County Fair Junior Livestock Sale. He has served Holstein Association USA at the local, state, and National levels and been a member of the Holstein Foundation Board of Trustees.
Tom has also been highly involved in World Dairy Expo since attending the first one in 1967, serving as chair of the Dairy Cattle Exhibitors Committee, as an Executive Committee member, and Vice-President of the Board of Directors.
From adding the sizzle to high-profile sales like the World Classic to breeding his own herd of elite Registered Holsteins and creating the Cattle Connection, Tom has been a trailblazer in several aspects of the dairy industry.
About The Award
The Distinguished Leadership Award recognizes an individual who has made a career of providing outstanding and unselfish leadership for the betterment of the dairy industry. Tom Morris will be honored with the award during the 2025 National Holstein Convention in St. Louis, Missouri.
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 Brattleboro, Vt., May 28, 2025 — Embracing technology, staying true to his breeding strategy, and the desire to constantly improve the Registered Holstein® cow have been the driving forces behind the 2025 Distinguished Young Holstein Breeder’s path in the dairy industry. Holstein Association USA is pleased to recognize Tim Rauen of Epworth, Iowa as this year’s Distinguished Young Holstein Breeder.
“Over the years, I’ve put countless hours into researching cow families, pedigrees, and different traits to make breeding decisions. If you ask people around me, I pretty much eat, sleep, and breath dairy cattle genetics,” Tim Rauen says. “So, to get recognized for this award, it means the world to me.”
Tim’s connection to the dairy industry started at his grandparents’ and uncle’s farm, Farnear Holsteins in Farley, Iowa. He also became involved in the Junior Holstein Association, competing in the showring, participating in youth competitions, and attending National Holstein Conventions.
These experiences led Tim to Iowa State University, where he majored in Dairy Science. While in college, he started building his own herd of Registered Holsteins with the help of his uncles by investing in heifers backed by multiple generations of Excellent and Very Good dams. Being an early adopter of technology also allowed for faster genetic progress and played a key role in the success of Tim’s breeding program.
In 2014, Tim became a founding partner in GenoSource. In his role as Directing Manager and Genetics Manager, Tim oversees the day-to-day activities on the farm and manages the breeding program. With the use of IVF and ET technologies, he has created an advanced genetic program.
Tim places an emphasis on production, health, and efficiency traits along with strong maternal bloodlines. Under his direction, GenoSource successfully markets embryos internationally and continuously supply bulls to A.I.
Tim enjoys sharing his passion for the dairy industry with his wife Jennifer and their five children. Tim is also an active Iowa Holstein Association member and a softball and basketball coach in his community.
The breeder behind numerous chart-topping cows and bulls, Tim’s success speaks for itself. However, it’s the experiences and people along the way, along with his focus and vision for the future, that set this year’s Distinguished Young Holstein Breeder apart.
“It really comes down to passion, focus, and trying to surround yourself with good people,” Tim says. “That's really a key formula I feel my success has built on over the last 25 years. I've tried to surround myself with great people, and great people have supported me on the backside.”
About The Award
The Distinguished Young Holstein Breeder award recognizes significant accomplishments of young Registered Holstein breeders for their commitment to preserving the dairy industry and for achieving excellence in their daily lives. Tim Rauen will be recognized on Wednesday, June 25 during the 2025 National Holstein Convention in St. Louis, Missouri.
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 Brattleboro, Vt., May 14, 2025 — Holstein Association USA will kick off National Dairy Month with the newest episode of its nationally acclaimed television series, Holstein America, which airs at 6:30 p.m. CST/7:30 p.m. EST, Wednesday, June 4, on RFD-TV.
This season’s episode takes viewers on a journey through dairying across the four seasons — spring, summer, fall and winter — while traveling to meet the dedicated individuals and families behind U.S. Registered Holsteins. From lush spring pastures to the tranquil beauty of winter barns, the show highlights the hard work, resilience, and innovation that define the dairy industry year-round.
“Holstein America showcases the incredible spirit of dairy farmers and the role U.S. Registered Holsteins play in feeding our communities,” says Lindsey Worden, Holstein Association USA CEO. “This episode beautifully illustrates how dedication and progress never take a season off — dairy farmers are constantly adapting, improving and leading with ingenuity every day of the year.”
Airing at the start of National Dairy Month, the June 4 broadcast offers the perfect opportunity to celebrate dairy families and their contributions to wholesome, nutritious dairy products enjoyed around the globe. From the East Coast to America’s Dairyland, the Great Lakes to the South, this episode of Holstein America highlights dairy farm families committed to raising high-quality Registered Holsteins. They also serve their communities by way of delicious products, informative farm tours, and advocacy efforts.
Sponsored by Merck Animal Health, Holstein America is the only nationally televised program dedicated to Registered Holsteins and the people who care for them.
Don’t miss Holstein America at 6:30 p.m. CST/7:30 p.m. EST, Wednesday, June 4, on RFD-TV. The network is available on DISH Network, DIRECTV®, AT&T U-Verse, Charter Spectrum, Cox, Comcast, Mediacom, Suddenlink and many other rural cable systems. Check local listings for details. In addition, RFD-TV can be streamed online via RFD-TV Now at watchrfdtv.com, DIRECTV NOW, Roku, iOS, Android, Firestick, Apple TV and Sling TV’s Heartland Extra package.
Following the broadcast, visit www.holsteinusa.com to watch this and previous episodes of Holstein America. Follow Holstein Association USA on Facebook and Instagram for exclusive program highlights.
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 Brattleboro, Vt., May 8, 2025 — Each year, Holstein Association USA’s Herds of Excellence award celebrates Registered Holstein® herds meeting the highest standards for production and conformation, with homebred cattle. The four herds being honored have met rigorous qualifying criteria with their 2024 records.
“The 2024 Herds of Excellence are wonderful examples of all that is possible with the Registered Holstein cow,” says Holstein Association USA CEO Lindsey Worden. “From intentional breeding programs to carefully managed cow comfort, the recipients work hard each day to maximize the potential of their herds. Congratulations to this year’s recipients on their well-deserved honor!”
The award is broken down into three divisions based on herd size, including the Large Herd Division (500+ cows), Medium Herd Division (100-499 cows), and Small Herd Division (10-99 cows).
This year’s honorees are:
Large Herd Size Division (500+ Cows)
Fustead Holsteins — The Fust Family, Wausau, Wisconsin
72.4% homebred; AACS — 83.2 points
ME Production Averages — 32,829 M 1,489F 1,071P
First Year Honoree
Medium Herd Size Division (100-499 Cows)
Koepke Farms Inc. — The Koepke Family, Oconomowoc, Wisconsin
100.0% homebred; AACS — 84.1 points
ME Production Averages — 35,516M 1,508F 1,098M
Seven Year Honoree
Small Herd Size Division (10-99 Cows)
Ever-Green-View Holsteins, LLC — The Kestell Family, Waldo, Wisconsin
99.1% homebred; AACS — 87.5 points
ME Production Averages — 39,695M 1,716F 1,246P
Fifteen Year Honoree
Kal-side Holsteins — The Oberholtzer Family, Hillsboro, Wis.
97.1% homebred; AACS — 86.2 points
ME Production Averages — 35,570M 1,531F 1,151P
Two Year Honoree
The awards will be presented during Holstein Association USA’s 139th Annual Meeting in Saint Louis, Missouri. To register for National Holstein Convention or learn more, visit www.holsteinconvention.com.
Read more about the 2024 Herds of Excellence in the Spring 2025 issue of The Pulse. Select pages of The Pulse are available at www.holsteinusa.com under the Latest News tab.
About the Award
The Herd of Excellence designation honors Registered Holstein breeders who have developed Holsteins herds excelling in both production and type. To be recognized with this accolade, herds must have classified within the last year and have an age-adjusted classification score of 83 points or higher; have at least 70 percent of the herd homebred; and be inrolled in Holstein Association USA’s TriStarSM production records program.
Additionally, qualifying herds must meet the following production criteria:
• Large Herd Division - 15 percent above breed average ME for milk, fat and protein
• Medium Herd Division - 20 percent above breed average ME for milk, fat and protein
• Small Herd Division - 25 percent above breed average ME for milk, fat and protein
Congratulations to the 2024 Herds of Excellence!
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 Brattleboro, Vt., May 7, 2025 — The 2024 Star of the Breed is described as the “kind of cow you’d like to have a whole herd of.” A trouble-free cow with high production, impressive components, eye-catching type, and an easy-going personality, Ms Shadow QCove Magnificent embodies the Star of the Breed award.
Established in 2007, Holstein Association USA’s Star of the Breed award honors an elite Registered Holstein cow with outstanding production and exceptional type. The 2024 Star of the Breed is owned by Ohio Holstein breeders Quietcove Holsteins and Kurt Wolf.
“Magnificent is a beautiful cow, not only to look at but also to work with. She produces high volumes of milk with really high components,” says owner Kurt Wolf of Shadow-W Holsteins and Boarding.
Ms Shadow QCove Magnificent qualified for the award with her three-year-old production record of 42,390 pounds of milk with 2,471 pounds of fat (5.8%) and 1,298 pounds of protein (3.1%). She’s classified Excellent 92 and placed fourth as a Junior Three-Year-Old at the Mid-East Summer National Show in 2024.
Magnificent is a Walnutlawn Sidekick out of a maternal line Kurt and Quietcove Holsteins have found success with. Both Magnificent’s dam, Shadow-W Denver Mile High EX-94, and grandam, Shadow-W Reginald Marian EX-95 3E, have been named All-National Five-Year Old Cow.
Magnificent is a cow Kurt appreciates having on the farm.
“She’s easy going, she’s easy to work with, and she’s a problem free type of cow,” Kurt describes. “She’s got a will to milk and does it very easily. She’s also reproductively sound and breeds back right away.”
The 2024 Star of the Breed will be recognized during Holstein Association USA’s 139th Annual Meeting at the 2025 National Holstein Convention in Saint Louis, Missouri this summer. To learn more or register for convention, visit www.holsteinconvention.com.
About The Award
To be eligible for the Star of the Breed award, a cow must place in the top five in her class at a National Holstein Show, be in a herd enrolled in the TriStarSM program and have an official classification score.
Once the eligible cows are determined, the following calculation is used to determine the award recipient: Combined Mature Equivalent (ME) Fat and Protein + Age Adjusted Classification Score X (Breed Average ME CFP/Breed Average Age Adjusted Score.)
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Brattleboro, Vt., April 1, 2025 — Holstein Association USA is thrilled to announce the 2025 Distinguished Junior Member (DJM) Semifinalists and 2025 Young Distinguished Junior Member (YDJM) Finalists. The National Junior Holstein Association is a dynamic organization for youth under the age of 21, with over 8,000 active members in 48 states.
The Distinguished Junior Member award is the highest achievement for National Junior Holstein Association members. Established in 1922, it’s the longest-running Holstein Youth Program and recognizes the commitment of Junior members to the Holstein breed, the dairy industry, and other agricultural related activities.
“For over a century, we’ve been recognizing deserving Junior members with the DJM award,” says Kelli Dunklee, Event and Program Lead for Holstein Association USA and the Holstein Foundation. “It’s rewarding to see the impact the National Junior Holstein Association has had on our DJM semifinalists and YDJM finalists and we’re excited to see where these outstanding young people are headed in the future.”
Ten young adults ages 17 to 20 were selected as semifinalists. They were judged through an application process including a resume, story of their Junior Holstein work, essay questions, video elements, and more.
The 2025 Distinguished Junior Member Semifinalists are:
Lauren Breunig, Sauk City, WI
Rachel Craun, Bridgewater, VA
Delana Erbsen, Lanark, IL
Evan Hathaway, Barneveld, WI
Alexis Hoefs, New Prague, MN
Katheryn Longenecker, Williamsburg, PA
Brianna Meyer, Chilton, WI
Katelyn Poitras, Brimfield, MA
Garrett Ulness, Valders, WI
Lauryn Young, Buhl, ID
The DJM semifinalists will be interviewed and recognized at the National Holstein Convention being held June 23 to 26, 2025 in Saint Louis, Missouri. The DJM finalists will be announced during the Junior Awards Breakfast on Thursday, June 26.
Eight finalists will also be recognized with Holstein Association USA’s Young Distinguished Junior Member award. The YDJM recognition honors youth ages 9 to 16, who demonstrate a firsthand working knowledge of the dairy industry. Applicants must be involved in the Junior Holstein Association and other agricultural activities, be role models for other youth, and good spokespeople for the dairy industry.
The 2025 Young Distinguished Junior Member Finalists are:
Justin Brandel, Lake Mills, WI
Gavin Carncross, Lodi, WI
Chloe Chapman, Keyes, CA
Elyse Mead, Biglerville, PA
Abby Meyer, Chilton, WI
Hannah Scott, Westgate, IA
Olivia VanEvera, Cobleskill, NY
Grant Yoder, Belleville, PA
To learn more about the 2025 National Holstein Convention visit www.holsteinconvention.com. Registration for the event is currently open and hotel rooms are available to be booked at the Saint Louis Union Station Hotel.
For more information about the DJM and YDJM contests or other Holstein youth programs, visit www.holsteinusa.com/juniors or contact Kelli Dunklee at 800.952.5200, ext. 4124 or by email.
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 Brattleboro, Vt., February 26, 2025 — The 2025 National Judges Conference will be held on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at Quietcove Holsteins in Wapakoneta, Ohio. Registration is now open for the event.
“We welcome you to attend the 2025 National Judges Conference at Quietcove Holsteins,” says Tim Ziemba, Holstein Association USA’s National Show Coordinator. “We appreciate the Elsass family for opening their doors to us and displaying their cattle, providing a realistic ‘show ring’ atmosphere for an immersive learning experience.”
The conference is designed to sharpen participants’ judging skills, deepen their understanding of Holstein cattle evaluation, and promote consistency in the show ring. By providing expert guidance and hands-on experience, the conference develops a trusted network of highly qualified judges that shows of all sizes can rely on when making judging selections.
The Judges Conference will include in-depth classroom sessions led by experienced judges. Attendees will also participate in hands-on learning activities, including placing classes of heifers and cows and giving a set of reasons. Participants will also listen to placing and reasons from both fellow attendees and officials.
Schedule of events:
Thursday, April 17, 2025
7:30 - 8:00 AM - Registration
8:00 - 10:00 AM - Classroom Discussion
10:30 - 11:30 AM - Linear Discussion
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM - Lunch
12:30 - 4:30 - Class Evaluations
Registration details:
Interested participants can find more details and register for the Judges Conference online at www.holsteinusa.com/shows/judges_conference.html using a credit card. The pre-registration fee is $100. Pre-registration will close once all spots are filled or two weeks before the conference on Thursday, April 3, 2025, whichever comes first.
A block of hotel rooms has been reserved at the Holiday Inn Express and Suites for judges conference participants. Hotel rooms are available for the nights of April 16 and 17, 2025, and must be booked by April 3, 2025, while availability lasts. The easiest way to secure a reservation is by booking online.
Participants interested in attending the Judges Conference without receiving an official rating are welcome for the experience but will not be eligible for the Holstein Association USA Judges Lists. All attendees will need to register for the Judges Conference.
Participants must be 22 years old by the day of the conference to attend. To register online, visit www.holsteinusa.com/shows/judges_preregister.html. For more information contact Tim Ziemba at 800.952.5200 ext. 4285 or by email at [email protected].
About the Judges List:
Each year, Association USA provides a list of certified dairy cattle judges as a resource for shows of all sizes around the country. The list has two tiers - National and Approved. All National Holstein Shows will be required to select their judges from the National list. Associate judges for National Shows must be selected from either the National or Approved list. Nationally sanctioned Junior Holstein Shows must select their judge from either the National or Approved list.
In order to be on the Approved List, judges must have participated in a Judges Conference within the last five years and receive a satisfactory rating from the conference. To learn more about the Judges Lists, visit www.holsteinusa.com/shows/judges.html.
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 Brattleboro, Vt., February 14, 2025 — Registration is open for the 2025 National Holstein Convention being held June 23-26, 2025, at the Union Station Hotel in St. Louis, Missouri. The convention will feature local farm tours, educational seminars, Holstein Association USA’s Annual meeting, contests and workshops for Junior Holstein members, award recognitions, and much more!
“The theme of this year’s convention is ‘Meet Me in St. Louis,’ — and Holstein enthusiasts from across the country are welcome to do just that,” says Holstein Association USA CEO Lindsey Worden. “We have a full lineup of engaging activities for adults and Juniors alike to enjoy. Be sure to check out the Convention schedule and register soon!”
Registration Details
Early bird registration is now open and will run through April 14, 2025. This option offers convention tickets at a discounted price. Tickets will be available to purchase at a standard price from April 15 to May 31, 2025. After May 31, late registration will be available until June 6, 2025, for additional fees.
Two ticket packages are also being offered for the convention. Package options provide adults and Juniors who plan to attend all or most of National Holstein Convention with a discounted price on tickets. Individual meal and activity tickets are also available for purchase. To learn more about ticket package options or register for the convention, visit www.holsteinconvention.com/registration.
Hotel Rooms Available
Hotel rooms are available for booking at the historic Union Station Hotel, the Convention headquarters. Originally a bustling train station, the architectural gem combines old-world charm with modern comforts. The hotel is also attached to the Union Station, which is home to restaurants and attractions including the St. Louis Wheel, a ropes course, mini golf, carousel, and more.
The discounted convention hotel room rates will be applied from June 21 to 27, 2025, as room availability lasts. To learn more or book a hotel room, visit www.holsteinconvention.com/accommodations. All room reservations must be made by June 1, 2025, as availability lasts.
Convention Details
The 2025 National Holstein Convention will kick-off with the Local Lens Farm Tour on Monday, June 23, featuring three local farms that have all found their unique niche in the dairy industry. Tuesday, June 24 will bring Holstein Horizons — a day of engaging and educational seminars led by industry experts. That evening, attendees will enjoy dinner and tour the St. Louis Aquarium during Family Night Under the Sea.
Wednesday, June 25 will bring Holstein Association USA’s Annual Meeting, along with the Awards Luncheon. The board candidate forum will take place in the afternoon, followed by the National Convention Sale, managed by the Cattle Exchange, that evening. Convention will wrap up on Thursday, June 26, with the conclusion of the Annual Meeting and the Junior Awards Breakfast.
Junior Holstein members will also stay busy throughout the week competing in contests, attending workshops, and meeting new friends during fun evening activities. To see a more detailed schedule for the convention, visit www.holsteinconvention.com/schedule.
For those wanting to extend their trip, St. Louis offers many family friendly activities, rich history, live entertainment, iconic landmarks, and sporting events. For more details on St. Louis highlights, visit www.holsteinconvention.com/experience-st-louis.
Learn more at www.holsteinconvention.com or reach out to [email protected] with questions. If you need assistance using the online Convention registration website, call Holstein Association USA customer service at 800.952.5200.
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Brattleboro, Vt., February 11, 2025 — Holstein Association USA is excited to announce the 2025 National Holstein Convention Internship, an exceptional opportunity for students pursuing careers in dairy, agriculture, or communications-related fields. This internship will take place from June 20 to July 3, 2025, and include a trip to National Holstein Convention, being held June 23-26, 2025, in St. Louis, Missouri.
“If you’re a creative, organized, and driven individual looking to gain hands-on experience in event planning, media coverage, and communications, we hope you’ll consider applying for this internship,” says Emily Bosch, Senior Communications Manager at Holstein Association USA. “National Holstein Convention provides a fun, fast-paced, and professional environment to level up your communication skills and gain hands-on experience.”
The intern will work alongside Holstien Association USA’s communications team to cover convention activities and award winners and assist with event operations. From creating engaging social media content to writing press releases and assisting with photography, this role offers a wide range of communication experiences.
Key Responsibilities:
Assist with event planning and general coverage during the convention.
Plan, capture, and execute engaging social media content.
Write and edit press releases.
Photograph convention activities and organize media assets.
Intern Qualifications
The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, creative, and passionate about both communications and agriculture. Applicants should be pursuing a bachelor’s degree in dairy, agriculture, or communications-related fields. Key qualifications include:
Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
Experience creating social media content and managing platforms.
Familiarity with design programs such as Canva or Adobe Suite.
Photography experience and a knack for capturing compelling visuals.
A positive, team-oriented attitude and strong organizational skills.
Internship Details
The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, creative, and passionate about both communications and agriculture. Applicants should be pursuing a bachelor’s degree in dairy, agriculture, or communications-related fields. Key qualifications include:
Location: The internship includes on-site work at the National Holstein Convention in St. Louis from June 21-26, 2025, as well as remote or in-office work before and after the event.
Compensation: Competitive hourly rate, with all transportation, meals, and lodging during the convention covered.
Additional Requirements: Interns must have a working laptop and smartphone, be available for 10 hours of paid remote training in May and June 2025, and must not be a 2025 Distinguished Junior member semifinalist, Junior Advisory Committee member, or competing in Dairy Bowl or Dairy Jeopardy during National Holstein Convention.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit their applications by March 21, 2025. Applicants should send a resume and cover letter to [email protected]. For the full job description and additional information, visit www.holsteinusa.com/association/employment.html.
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Brattleboro, Vt., February 4, 2025 — Holstein Association USA is excited to announce the top Holstein Breed Age Average (BAA%) herds for 2024 classifications. This recognition highlights the outstanding dedication of Holstein breeders nationwide who participate in the Classic or Standard options of the Holstein classification program.
“With the Classic and Standard program options herds receive a whole herd BAA, using each animal’s age and stage of lactation balancing the scale for all animals,” says Amy Fletcher, Senior Manager of Classification Operations. “Congratulations to all the Registered Holstein breeders earning a spot on the Top BAA lists, it is a great achievement.”
In 2024, 924 herds had a BAA value eligible for inclusion in these lists. The average number of cows included in the BAA calculation for the entire group was 66, and the average BAA% was 108.2.
Topping the 2024 highest overall BAA list is Triple-T Holsteins from North Lewisburg, Ohio, with a BAA of 116.9. Also earning top five honors are:
Matthew T. Mitchell, Tennessee, BAA of 116.6
Jeffrey Jet Butler, Illinois, BAA of 115.8
Juniper Farm Inc, Maine, BAA of 115.5
Conant Acres Inc, Maine, BAA of 115.4
Lists are broken down in several different ways to recognize members across the country with herds of all sizes. Lists of the Overall Top 200 BAA Herds, Top 25 BAA Herds by Region, Top 25 BAA Herds by Herd Size, and Top 15 BAA Herds for Colleges & Universities can be found under the Popular List section on the homepage or directly at www.holsteinusa.com/programs_services/baa_lists_2024.html. Congratulations to all herds on these lists!
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 Brattleboro, Vt., January 23, 2025 — Holstein enthusiasts are invited to gather in Saint Louis for the 2025 National Holstein Convention this summer. The convention will be held from June 23-26, 2025, at the Union Station Hotel in St. Louis, Missouri. With the theme “Meet Me in St. Louis,” the convention will feature farm tours, educational seminars, award recognition, and Holstein Association USA’s Annual Meeting, along with contests, workshops, and activities for youth.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming the dairy community to join us in exploring Saint Louis this summer. This Gateway City feels like a big city with a small-town charm and has so much to offer, from family-friendly fun to live entertainment to exhilarating sporting events,” says Holstein Association USA Event & Program Lead Kelli Dunklee. “Additionally, we have a full line up of exciting activities planned for both adults and Juniors at National Holstein Convention.”
With its rich history and iconic landmarks, Saint Louis provides a perfect gathering place for Holstein enthusiasts of all ages. From engaging seminars and networking with industry leaders to exploring other farms and participating in association business, attendees will maximize their time at National Holstein Convention. Registration for convention will be available in mid-February at www.holsteinconvention.com.
Convention Schedule
National Holstein Convention will kick off on Monday, June 23 with a breakfast buffet and the Local Lens Farm Tour. Attendees will visit three Registered Holstein farms that have found their niche in the dairy industry through innovation — Wilra Farms, Carters Corner, and Rolling Lawns Farm. The day will also include lunch and a stop at The Milk House, the charming storefront for Rolling Lawns Farm. Junior Holstein members will wrap up the day with Dairy Jeopardy Orientation and a Great Gatsby inspired dance.
Holstein Horizons will be held on Tuesday, June 24. The program will feature a variety of enriching seminars, including a panel focused on farm transition planning and experts on topics like dairy cattle longevity, biosecurity, and dairy product innovations. Youth will stay busy with Dairy Jeopardy, speech contests, and the dairy knowledge exam. The trade show will also be open throughout the day. In the evening, adults and youth will come together for a fun filled family night at the aquarium attached to the hotel.
Wednesday, June 25 will bring Holstein Association USA’s 139th Annual Meeting and Board Candidate Forum. An Awards Luncheon will honor Holstein Association USA’s award recipients, and the National Holstein Convention Sale will follow that evening. The Dairy Bowl contest, workshop, Junior Forum, and an evening activity will be offered for youth.
The 2025 convention will wrap up on Thursday, June 26 with the conclusion of Holstein Association USA’s Annual Meeting, Dairy Bowl finals, and the Junior Awards Breakfast, where the Distinguished Junior Member finalists are announced and Junior Holstein members are recognized. For a full National Holstein Convention schedule, visit www.holsteinconvention.com/schedule.
Hotel Rooms Available
Hotel rooms are available for booking at the historic Union Station Hotel, the Convention headquarters. Originally a bustling train station, the architectural gem combines old-world charm with modern comforts. The hotel is also attached to the Union Station, which is home to restaurants and attractions including the St. Louis Wheel, a ropes course, mini golf, carousel, and more. The discounted convention hotel room rates will be applied from June 21 to 27, 2025, as room availability lasts. To learn more or book a hotel room, visit www.holsteinconvention.com/accommodations. All room reservations must be received by June 1, 2025, as availability lasts.
Breeder Advertising Opportunities
New in 2025, advertising opportunities through National Holstein Convention channels are being offered to Holstein Association USA members. These affordable advertising options are designed to promote Registered Holstein farms or genetics to fellow Holstein enthusiasts on a national scale.
Full page, half page, and farm spotlight advertisements are available for purchase and will be featured in the official National Holstein Convention program. A breeder map will feature Registered Holstein farms welcoming National Holstein Convention attendees to stop by on their way to or from Convention on the website and in the Convention program. To place an advertisement or participate in the breeder map, visit www.holsteinconvention.com/farm-promotion.
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Brattleboro, Vt., January 7, 2025 — Launched in 2020, the Virtual Interview Contest provides Junior Holstein Association members the opportunity to sharpen their resume writing and interview skills. The virtual format of the contest allows Junior members from across the country to easily participate and practice interviewing in a realistic setting.
“Competing in the Virtual Interview Contest for several years has definitely helped me improve my interview skills,” says Junior Holstein Association member Rachel Craun. “I have used the feedback received from judges to prepare my resume and cover letter when applying for internships. Thanks to the skills gained from this contest, I have landed several awesome internship opportunities.”
Applicants submitted cover letters and resumes based on a mock interview scenario and were selected to move on to the second phase of the contest based on their combined cover letter and resume scores. During the second phase contestants were interviewed by a panel of three judges. Final scores were calculated based on each applicant’s cover letter, resume, and interview. Every participant also receives constructive feedback from the judges.
Junior Division (ages 12-14 as of January 1)
1st place: Chloe Chapman, California
2nd place: Brady McConnell, Wisconsin
3rd place: Josiah Freier, New York
Intermediate Division (ages 15-17 as of January 1)
1st place: Sydney Bullard, Maine
2nd place: Elsie Donlick, New York
3rd place: Sophia Geppert, Missouri
Senior Division (ages 18-21 as of January 1)
1st place: Rachel Craun, Virginia
2nd place: Alexis Hoefs, Minnesota
3rd place: Mark Freier, New York
Cash prizes of $250 for first place, $100 for second place, and $50 for third place will be awarded in the junior and intermediate divisions. In the senior division, youth will be given cash prizes of $500 for first place, $250 for second place, and $100 for third place.
“I really enjoyed participating in this year's Virtual Interview Contest,” says Junior Holstein member Josiah Freier. “I sharpened my communication skills while interacting and learning from great people in the dairy industry from across the country. I encourage all Junior Holstein members to take up this great opportunity as well.”
For more information about the Virtual Interview Contest, or other Holstein Association USA youth programs, visit www.holstein usa.com/juniors/ or contact Kelli Dunklee at [email protected].
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Brattleboro, Vt., January 6, 2025 — Holstein Association USA (HAUSA) recently announced several promotions among senior staff members. The promotions and new positions, along with the plethora of products, programs, and services offered, position HAUSA well to continue to serve Registered Holstein® breeders and the broader dairy community.
Lindsey Worden was introduced as the next Chief Executive Officer (CEO) on June 20, 2024, following a comprehensive interview process with the HAUSA Board of Directors. Lindsey assumed her official duties as CEO on January 1, 2025, succeeding John Meyer as the 10th CEO of Holstein Association USA after his retirement on December 31, 2024.
“I am humbled to follow in John Meyer’s footsteps and have been grateful to work alongside him and witness many of the significant achievements our organization has enjoyed under his leadership,” CEO Worden says. “I am honored to be named Holstein Association USA’s next CEO, and excited to navigate the opportunities and challenges that will propel us into the future, while respecting and honoring our organization’s rich history.”
During her 17-year tenure at HAUSA, Lindsey has held several positions including college intern, Public Relations Specialist, Communications Manager, Executive Director of the Holstein Genetic Services Department, and most recently, Chief Operating Officer. The University of Wisconsin-Madison graduate also serves the dairy industry as Council on Dairy Cattle Breeding Board Chair, a National Pedigreed Livestock Council Director, and Councilor for the World Holstein Friesian Federation.
“One of Holstein Association USA’s strengths lies in the talent and dedication of our team. I am proud to work alongside all of our staff, who all play a key part in helping HAUSA achieve our mission of providing programs, products and services to help dairy producers worldwide be successful, regardless of their role within the organization,” said CEO Worden.
Dr. Jeffrey Bewley has been promoted to Executive Director of Genetic Programs and Innovation. In this role, Dr. Bewley will be responsible for leading efforts in developing and providing high quality, unbiased information and decision support tools that can be used by dairy producers worldwide to breed more profitable Holstein cattle. Dr. Bewley has been with the Holstein Association for over four years as our Dairy Analytics and Innovation Scientist.
Jason Ewing has been promoted to Western Region Sales Manager, where he will be responsible for overseeing the sales team covering the western half of the United States, and serving a territory of his own in the central part of the country. Jason has been with the Holstein Association for two years as a Regional Sales Representative.
Jenifer Levisee has been promoted to Senior Director of Herdbook Services, where she will lead the team responsible for producing and providing the gamut of identification products and services, as well as overseeing quality assurance programs, and the customer service team. Jen has been with the Association for over 26 years, working in various roles within the Quality Assurance department for most of that time.
Sarah Sarbacker joined the HAUSA team in November 2024 as Director of Sales and Market Development. In this role, Sarah is responsible for leading strategic initiatives aimed at expanding market presence, enhancing member engagement, developing and executing comprehensive sales strategies, and identifying new market opportunities.
Daren Sheffield has been promoted to Senior Director of Performance Programs, Membership and Governance. Daren is a 20-year veteran of the organization and provides valuable oversight and guidance to several value-added programs and services that Holstein Association USA offers. He will serve as a steward for HAUSA membership processes and programs for both adult and Junior members, and oversees the organization’s governance processes.
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Lindsey Worden |
Dr. Jeffrey Bewley |
Jason Ewing |
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Jenifer Levisee |
Sarah Sarbacker |
Daren Sheffield |
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