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 Brattleboro, Vt., June 4, 2026 — The 2026 Elite Breeder honorees have built their herd around breeding productive, high-scoring cows with longevity. Holstein Association USA will recognize Jeff and Kate Hendrickson of Jeffrey-Way Holsteins, Belleville, Wisconsin with the honor at the 2026 National Holstein Convention.
“It gives us a sense of pride to be recognized by this award,” Jeff says. “It’s a good feeling to know you’re recognized by your peers, and it provides a sense of accomplishment.”
What started as an FFA and Junior Holstein project has grown into a multi-generational dairy, where Jeff and Kate now farm with their son, Brooks. Their other four children are also involved in the dairy community, reflecting the passion for dairy cattle instilled in their family.
Staying true to their farm’s motto, “Where family matters,” their herd is built around one foundation cow, Inwood Taffy Apollo EX-93, who they purchased in the early 1980s. Today, 90 percent of the herd traces back to the “T” family. The cow family’s influence extends worldwide, contributing to numerous A.I. sires and embryo sales for the Hendricksons.
There have been many other notable cows since Taffy, including Jeffrey-Way Mars Tara-ET EX-90, Jeffrey-Way Mascot Tina-ET EX-91, Jeffrey-Way Format Tate-ET EX-93, Jeffrey-Way Tranquil-ET EX-92, Jeffrey-Way Tanawood EX-95, Jeffrey-Way Addison Sauna EX-95, Jeffrey-Way Saphire EX-94, and Jeffrey-Way Hard Rock Twigs EX-96.
The Jeffrey-Way herd has been recognized on the Progressive Breeder’s Registry for 35 years and received multiple Progressive Genetics Herd Awards. They have bred dozens of Gold Medal Dams and Dams of Merit and 384 Excellent cows to date.
In addition to these achievements, Jeffrey-Way Holsteins has earned recognition in the show ring at the local, state, and national levels, garnering many Premier Breeder and Premier Exhibitor honors and All-American nominees.
The Hendricksons open their doors to tour groups, including many international visitors during World Dairy Expo. They have also been actively involved in their community, serving on dairy industry and church boards and leading their local 4-H club. Rooted in strong family values and a clear breeding vision, Jeff and Kate Hendrickson have built a lasting legacy within the Holstein breed.
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. Jeff and Kate Hendrickson will be recognized with the honor during the 2026 National Holstein Convention in Orlando, Florida in June.
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 Brattleboro, Vt., June 3, 2026 — Corey Geiger of Omro, Wisconsin, will receive Holstein Association USA’s 2026 Distinguished Leadership Award at the National Holstein Convention in June, in recognition of his long-standing commitment to the Holstein breed and dairy industry.
“It’s humbling to be recognized, because as I stand and look at some of the past winners, I see past leaders of this association, people that I looked up to as a young person, and to be considered in that group is pretty special,” Corey says. “To be recognized by your peers for the work you do means everything.”
From journalism to economics, Corey has dedicated his career to advancing the dairy community. Growing up as the sixth generation on his family’s Wisconsin dairy farm, Corey developed an early interest in the Holstein cow.
A University of Wisconsin-Madison graduate, Corey spent 28 years with Hoard’s Dairyman, including many as managing editor, and now serves as the lead dairy economist for CoBank. He resides in Omro, Wisconsin with his wife Krista Knigge.
Internationally recognized as an expert in dairy economics, Corey is frequently sought by agricultural publications and media outlets for his insights. He has spoken in 40 states and to audiences around the globe, sharing his understanding of genetics, farming, processing, and milk markets.
Named a Distinguished Junior Member finalist in 1993, Corey has remained engaged in the Registered Holstein business, including the Wisconsin Holstein Association Board of Directors. He served as President of Holstein Association USA from 2019 to 2022, following terms as Vice President and At-Large Director.
Corey’s industry service has also included leadership roles with the Holstein Foundation, National Dairy Shrine, World Dairy Expo, Superintendent of the National Collegiate Dairy Cattle Judging Contest, Council on Dairy Cattle Breeding, Klussendorf Association, and the Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center. He served as co-editor of World Dairy Expo’s fiftieth anniversary book and has authored two books, inspired by his own family history.
From sharing important industry topics as a journalist and dairy economist, to leading at the national level, Corey continues to make a lasting impact across multiple facets of the Holstein and 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. Corey Geiger will be honored with the award on Wednesday, June 24 during the 2026 National Holstein Convention in Orlando, Florida.
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 Brattleboro, Vt., June 2, 2026 — The 2026 Distinguished Young Holstein Breeder says he knew from a young age that dairy farming was in his future. Curtis Vanden Berge of Bakersfield, California will be recognized with this honor from Holstein Association USA at the upcoming National Holstein Convention.
“When CEO Lindsey Worden called me to tell me the news, I was truly surprised,” Curtis says. “It’s nice to be recognized for the work we do every day.”
Raised on his family’s dairy near Mira Loma, California, Curtis’s father and grandfather inspired his passion for dairy farming and genetic progress. In 2004, the family relocated to Bakersfield, expanding the farm and creating opportunities for the next generation.
Curtis began managing the day-to-day activities at Vanden Berge Dairy in 2010 and became a partner in the operation in 2015. Today, he and his wife, Stacey, farm alongside his brother, Trevin, and his wife, Heidi. Curtis and Stacey are also raising their three children, Case, Tessa, and Payton, on the farm.
Vanden Berge Dairy is home to 2,800 Holstein cows milked three times a day. Curtis is driven to continuously improve herd genetics, focusing on increasing components and ensuring each generation is better than the last. As a result, Vanden Berge Dairy currently has a rolling herd average of 27,895 pounds of milk with 1,163 pounds of fat (4.17%) and 928 pounds of protein (3.33%).
The first group of Registered Holsteins arrived at Vanden Berge Dairy nearly 15 years ago. Longfellow Boxer Bianca and her performance in their herd demonstrated the value of Registered Holsteins to Curtis. Another influential cow, Seagull-Bay Halogen 516-ET, continues to make a lasting impact, with more than 200 descendants in the herd today, including Vanden-Berge Trpc Daphne-ET EX-90.
In addition to investing in quality Registered Holstein genetics, Curtis relies on modern genetic tools such as genomic testing, embryo transfer work, beef on dairy, and programs and services from Holstein Association USA, to accelerate progress. Curtis’s involvement in Holstein Association USA extends to leadership within the California Holstein Association, where he has been an active board member and served two years as President.
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. Curtis Vanden Berge will be recognized on Wednesday, June 24 during the 2026 National Holstein Convention in Orlando, Florida.
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 Brattleboro, Vt., April 30, 2026 — Three outstanding Registered Holstein® herds have qualified for Holstein Association USA’s 2025 Herds of Excellence recognition. Each year, the award recognizes primarily homebred herds that excel in conformation and production.
“The Herds of Excellence award celebrates the families who work together, year after year, to build outstanding Registered Holstein herds,” said Lindsey Worden, Holstein Association USA CEO. “These honorees reflect a deep commitment to homebred genetics, strong cow families, and steady progress over time. We congratulate each family for the care, dedication, and pride they bring to their herds.”
The award is broken down into three herd size categories based on the number of cows in production averages, including the Large Herd Division (500+ cows), Medium Herd Division (100-499 cows), and Small Herd Division (10-99 cows). Each herd size division has specific criteria that must be met in order to qualify for the award.
Congratulations to the following 2025 Herds of Excellence.
Fustead Holsteins — The Fust Family, Wausau, Wisconsin
Large Herd Size Division
73.4% homebred; AACS — 83.3 points
ME Production Averages — 32,630M 1,524F 1,076P
Second Year Honoree
Doorco Holsteins — The Vandertie Family, Brussels, Wisconsin
Small Herd Size Division
100.0% homebred; AACS — 90.5 points
ME Production Averages — 37,225M 1,557F 1,154P
Eight Year Honoree
Ever-Green-View Holsteins, LLC — The Kestell Family, Waldo, Wisconsin
Small Herd Size Division
98.9% homebred; AACS — 87.6 points
ME Production Averages — 39,430M 1,707F 1,227P
Sixteen Year Honoree
The awards will be presented during Holstein Association USA’s 140th Annual Meeting in Orlando, Florida. To register for National Holstein Convention or learn more, visit www.holsteinconvention.com.
Read more about the 2025 Herds of Excellence in the Spring 2026 issue of The Pulse.
About the Award
The Herd of Excellence designation honors Registered Holstein breeders who have developed Holsteins herds excelling in both production and classification scores. To be recognized with this accolade, herds must have classified within the last year and have an age-adjusted classification score (AACS) of 83 points or higher; have at least 70 percent of the herd homebred; and be enrolled 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 2025 Herds of Excellence!
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Brattleboro, Vt., April 30, 2026 — The highest honor presented to a Registered Holstein®, the Star of the Breed award recognizes a cow who excels in both type and production. Receiving the 2025 recognition from Holstein Association USA is Oakfield Solomon Sunset-ET EX-96 2E. Sunset is bred and owned by Jonathan and Alicia Lamb of Oakfield Corners Dairy in New York.
“The cow milks like crazy. As of today, she has over 178,000 pounds of lifetime milk, which is huge for any cow, so we’re really proud of her in that regard,” Alicia Lamb says. “And when you see her, she’s a beautiful cow—she’s been one of the greatest show cows we’ve had over the years.”
Sunset qualified for the award with her five-year-old production record of 51,710 pounds of milk with 2,087 pounds of fat (4.0%) and 1,674 pounds of protein (3.2%), along with her third-place finish in the Aged Cow Class at the 2025 Northeast Spring Holstein Show.
Jonathan and Alicia purchased Sunset’s dam, Bella-Rosa GW Sara-ET EX-96 3E, at the National Holstein Convention Sale in 2013. Sunset was sold to Adam Liddle at Oakfield Corners Dairy’s Spring Sensations Sale in 2019 and Jonathan and Alicia purchased Sunset back from Adam in 2022.
Notable showring achievements include Sunset being named Champion Bred and Owned at the Eastern Fall National Holstein Show for three years running, along with placing first in her class and being named Grand Champion of the show in 2022 and 2023. In 2024, Sunset once again placed first in her class at the Eastern Fall National and took home Reserve Grand Champion honors.
“One of the things we’re most proud of is not only how Sunset milked, but that she really exemplifies the type of cows we’re trying to breed today,” Jonathan Lamb says. “We don’t want to have the biggest, but we want to have the most correct and we certainly want them to have plenty of width and power and strength.”
“For a cow that we’ve bred and worked with and a cow family that we really love and appreciate to be recognized at this level, it’s humbling for us,” Alicia adds. “It’s a great honor for Sunset to be recognized in this way.”
To learn more about Sunset’s story, read the story in the Spring 2026 issue of The Pulse or tune into the Holstein Connections podcast.
The 2025 Star of the Breed will be recognized during Holstein Association USA’s 140th Annual Meeting at the 2026 National Holstein Convention in Orlando, Florida in June. 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 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, 2026 — Exceptional National Junior Holstein Association members from across the country have been chosen as 2026 Distinguished Junior Member (DJM) semifinalists and 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 more than 100 years, we’ve honored outstanding Junior members through the DJM award,” says Kelli Dunklee, Event and Program Lead for Holstein Association USA. “It’s inspiring to witness the influence the National Junior Holstein Association has had on our DJM semifinalists and YDJM finalists, and we look forward to seeing what these exemplary young individuals accomplish in the years ahead.”
Eleven 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 2026 Distinguished Junior Member Semifinalists are:
Abbie Ainslie, Clayville, NY
Jon Chapman, Keyes, CA
Sara Dorshorst, Marshfield, WI
Sophie Griswold, Chadds Ford, PA
Elizabeth Gunst, Hartford, WI
Logan Harbaugh, Marion, WI
Morgan Klink, Linesville, PA
Tristen Ostrom, De Pere, WI
Shelby Swanson, Hutchinson, MN
Madison Wiese, Greenleaf, WI
Natalie Yoder, Belleville, PA
The DJM semifinalists will be interviewed and recognized at the National Holstein Convention being held June 22 to 25, 2026 in Orlando, Florida. The DJM finalists will be announced during the Junior Awards Breakfast on Thursday, June 25.
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 firsthand 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 2026 Young Distinguished Junior Member Finalists are:
Addison Brown, Preble, NY
Trey Daubert, Dayton, VA
Madison Harbaugh, Marion, WI
Emma Hutchison, Ridgely, MD
Vivian Lichty, Beaver Dam, WI
Brady McConnell, Lancaster, WI
Georgia Sellers, Lebanon, PA
Alivia Wiese, Greenleaf, WI
To learn more about the 2026 National Holstein Convention visit www.holsteinconvention.com. Registration for the event is currently open and hotel rooms are available to be booked at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort.
For more information about the DJM and YDJM contests or other Holstein youth programs, visit www.juniorholstein.com or contact Kelli Dunklee at 800.952.5200, ext. 4124 or by email.
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Brattleboro, Vt., March 31, 2026 — Holstein Association USA’s Board of Directors has approved several important changes to respond to the current needs of Registered Holstein breeders and ensure the classification program and genetic tools keep pace with current and future industry trends. These changes come from recommendations presented by the Conformation Advisory Committee and Genetic Advancement Committee during the Association’s recent Board Meeting March 26-27 in Kansas City, Missouri.
“These recommendations reflect direct input from our members and a careful look at where the industry is headed. The result is a set of updates that strengthen the tools breeders use every day and position the Holstein breed for continued success,” said Holstein Association USA CEO Lindsey Worden.
TPI® Formula Update
The weighting for PTA Protein and PTA Fat within Holstein Association USA’s Total Performance Index® (TPI®) will be adjusted to better align TPI® with current and emerging trends in milk pricing and processor needs for fat to protein ratios. This change will be implemented for the upcoming April 2026 official genetic evaluation.
Specific changes to the TPI® formula include:
- Increasing the weighting on PTA Protein from 19 to 24
- Decreasing the weighting on PTA Fat from 19 to 14
This update adjusts only the relative emphasis placed on PTA Protein and PTA Fat; no other TPI® trait weightings will be affected. This update results in a very high correlation (0.9978) between the revised TPI® formula and the current version, indicating that the change represents a refinement, rather than a fundamental shift, in how animals are ranked.
More information on the TPI® formula can be found at www.holsteinusa.com/genetic_evaluations/ss_tpi_formula.html. Additional details about the TPI formula change can be found at www.holsteinusa.com/association/committees.html#genetic_committee.
Holstein Conformation Composite (HCC)
The Holstein Conformation Composite (HCC) is a new selection tool designed to help breeders identify animals with the combination of conformation traits most closely associated with balance, functionality, and long-term durability. HCC will be published as a new trait alongside PTA Type (PTAT) and the existing Udder Composite (UDC), Foot & Leg Composite (FLC), and Body Weight Composite (BWC) values. HCC values for active A.I. bulls will be released before July 1, 2026.
HCC was developed through collaboration between experienced Registered Holstein breeders and the empirical analysis of Holstein Association USA’s comprehensive database of linear conformation and production records. The HCC provides breeders an alternative to Predicted Transmitting Ability for Type (PTAT) by weighting individual conformation traits based on breed priorities, considering the relationships between traits, rather than being based on Final Score alone.
More information on HCC can be found at www.holsteinusa.com/association/committees.html#genetic_committee.
Sliding Scale Penalty for Stature
A sliding scale penalty for Stature will be implemented starting in the May 2026 classification program, with 60 inches considered the ideal height. This change defines a breed standard for ideal stature for the first time and is designed to discourage extreme stature in our breed, while continuing to reward cows that combine balance, strength, and functional correctness.
The penalty will be deducted from the Front End & Capacity major breakdown, which represents 15% of the final classification score. More information can be found at https://www.holsteinusa.com/association/committees.html#conformation_committee.
Eligibility for Breed Age Average (BAA)
To be eligible for inclusion in a herd’s Breed Age Average (BAA), cows must have calved within the previous 24 months. This change is intended to ensure that BAA calculations reflect currently active, productive cows in a herd. This will be implemented for classifications starting in May 2026 and after.
For more details about any of these changes, or to learn how to become involved in a Holstein Association USA committee, visit www.holsteinusa.com/association/committees.html.
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Brattleboro, Vt., March 27, 2026 — Holstein Association USA’s Board of Directors has approved an update to the TPI® Formula to respond to the current needs of Registered Holstein® breeders and ensure the genetic tools keep pace with current and future industry trends. The change comes from recommendations presented by the Genetic Advancement Committee during the Association’s recent Board Meeting March 26–27 in Kansas City, Missouri.
The information provided below is a brief update to notify the industry of the change before the upcoming genetic evaluation. More comprehensive background will be shared early next week.
TPI® Formula Update
The weighting for PTA Protein and PTA Fat within Holstein Association USA’s Total Performance Index® (TPI®) will be adjusted to better align TPI® with current and emerging trends in milk pricing and processor needs for fat to protein ratios. This change will be implemented for the upcoming April 2026 official genetic evaluation.
Specific changes to the TPI® formula include:
- Increasing the weighting on PTA Protein from 19 to 24
- Decreasing the weighting on PTA Fat from 19 to 14
This update adjusts only the relative emphasis placed on PTA Protein and PTA Fat; no other TPI® trait weightings will be affected. This update results in a very high correlation (0.9978) between the revised TPI® formula and the current version, indicating that the change represents a refinement, rather than a fundamental shift, in how animals are ranked. More information will be available early next week.
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Brattleboro, Vt., February 16, 2026 — Registration is now open for the 2026 National Holstein Convention, bringing Holstein members together June 22–25, 2026, at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort in Orlando, Florida. Convention attendees can expect an event packed with a mix of education, business, networking, and fun, all taking place at a beautiful, family–friendly resort in the Sunshine State.
“Year after year, the National Holstein Convention is where friendships are renewed, ideas are shared, and families come together around a breed we’re all proud to represent,” said Lindsey Worden, CEO of Holstein Association USA. “For 2026, we’ve introduced new, simplified registration packages based on member feedback, allowing attendees to focus on what matters most – connecting with one another and bringing valuable insights back home.”
Simplified Registration Packages
New for 2026, convention registration has been streamlined into two all–inclusive package options, designed to make planning easier. Registration packages include meals, educational sessions, business meetings, networking opportunities, the trade show, dairy bar, award celebrations, and more for the days attendees are registered. Pre-convention tour tickets will be available for purchase separately.
To view package options and register, visit www.holsteinconvention.com/registration. Registration is open now through May 20, 2026. Late registration will be available from May 21 through June 5, 2026, with additional fees.
Hotel Rooms Available
Convention activities will take place at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort, offering attendees the convenience of staying where everything happens. The resort offers several amenities, including a large lagoon pool, golf course, walking and biking paths, outdoor courts for several sports, and much more for resort guests to enjoy.
Discounted National Holstein Convention room rates are available from June 17 through June 26, based on availability. Rooms must be reserved by May 29, 2026, or until the room block is filled.
Booking online is encouraged. Visit www.holsteinconvention.com/accommodations for room options, rates, and to make a reservation. Those unable to book online may call 800–233–1234 and ask for the Holstein Association USA 2026 National Convention to receive the discounted rate.
Convention Highlights
Monday, June 22: The convention begins with two optional pre–convention tours. Attendees can visit the Kennedy Space Center or explore Florida agriculture at Deseret Ranch. The day concludes with a Cowabunga Bash.
Tuesday, June 23: Holstein Horizons educational sessions–open to both adult and Junior attendees–will focus on the theme Small Investments, Big Returns. Topics include genetics, technology, labor strategies, dairy monitoring systems, and effective social media use. The evening will feature the National Convention Sale, as well as a Junior activity and dinner.
Wednesday, June 24: Wednesday includes a full day of convention activities, highlighted by the 140th Holstein Association USA Annual Business Meeting. Holstein Association USA award winners will be recognized during the Awards Luncheon, and attendees will cap off the day with a touch of magic and time to connect with Holstein friends that evening.
Thursday, June 25: The convention concludes with the Delegate Breakfast and the completion of Holstein Association USA’s Annual Business Meeting. Juniors will compete in the Dairy Bowl Finals before celebrating achievements at the Junior Awards Breakfast.
Junior Holstein members can spend the week competing in a variety of contests and expanding their network during fun activities. When attendees are not busy learning, meeting, or competing, the Holstein Hub will be the place to enjoy dairy bar snacks, visit with folks in a casual trade show setting, and connect with fellow attendees.
A detailed schedule is available at www.holsteinconvention.com/schedule.
Learn More
For more information, visit www.holsteinconvention.com or email [email protected]. Members needing assistance with online registration may contact Holstein Association USA Customer Service at 800–952–5200.
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Brattleboro, Vt., January 22, 2026 —The top Holstein Breed Age Average (BAA%) lists recognize outstanding Holstein breeders nationwide who participate in Holstein Association USA’s classification program. Herds with ten or more cows who participate in the Classic or Standard options of the classification program receive a whole-herd BAA.
“By factoring in age and stage of lactation, Breed Age Average (BAA) values help provide a fair comparison across all animals,” says Amy Fletcher, Senior Manager of Classification Operations. “Congratulations to all Registered Holstein breeders earning a spot on the Top BAA lists—an outstanding accomplishment.”
In 2025, 878 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 108.3.
Topping the 2025 highest overall BAA list is Matthew T. Mitchell from Tennessee, with a BAA of 116.4. Also earning top five honors are:
Jeffrey Jet Butler, Illinois, BAA of 115.9
Juniper Farm Inc, Maine, BAA of 115.6
Triple-T Holsteins, OH, BAA of 115.5 (tie)
Milk Source LLC, WI, 115.5 (tie)
Currie Holsteins, NY, 115.5 (tie)
Lists are broken down to include the Overall Top 200 BAA Herds, Top 25 BAA Herds by Herd Size, and Top 10 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_2025.html.
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Brattleboro, Vt., January 16, 2026 — The Judges Conference provides an opportunity for dairy cattle judges to refine their evaluation skills, learn from experienced judges, make connections, and fulfil the requirements to be a part of Holstein Association USA’s Judges Lists. The 2026 National Judges Conference will be held February 26 and 27, 2026, at Vierra Dairy in Hilmar, California. Registration is now open for the event.
“We are excited to be in California for the 2026 Judges Conference and thankful the Vierra Dairy team has opened up their farm to us,” says Tim Ziemba, Holstein Association USA’s National Show Coordinator. “We plan to showcase some of the best cattle from herds in the Hilmar area, allowing us to create a realistic showring atmosphere at a great venue.”
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, February 26, 2026
4:00 PM – Registration
4:30 – 6:00 PM – Classroom Discussion
6:30 – 8:00 PM – Networking and Pizza
Friday, February 27, 2026
8:30 – 9:00 AM – Linear Discussion
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM – 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, February 12, 2026, whichever comes first.
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, regardless of rating status, must pre-register and pay the registration fee.
Hotel rooms are available at three hotels in Turlock, California, including Fairfield by Mariott Inn & Suites Turlock, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Turlock-Hwy 99, and Hampton Inn Turlock. Booking cut-off dates for each hotel vary - visit www.holsteinusa.com/shows/judges_preregister.html for more details.
Participants must be 22 years old by the day of the conference to attend. To register online, visit holsteinusa.com. 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.
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., January 14, 2026 — Designed to help Junior Holstein Association members sharpen their resume writing and interview skills, the Virtual Interview Contest has been held annually since 2020. The online format of the contest allows Junior members from across the country to easily participate and practice interviewing in a realistic setting.
“Participating in the Virtual Interview Contest has helped me grow my interview skills in a safe environment,” says Junior Holstein member Sophia Geppert. “By interviewing for something I am passionate about, I have learned how to have fun and be myself in a professional manner.”
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. Additionally, every participant receives constructive feedback from the judges.
Junior Division (ages 12-14 as of January 1)
1st place: Evan Brey, Wisconsin
2nd place: Molly Albers, Minnesota
3rd place: Henry Blagg, California
Intermediate Division (ages 15-17 as of January 1)
1st place: Alison Gartman, Wisconsin
2nd place: Sophia Geppert, Missouri
3rd place: Cayden Bursiek, Ohio
Senior Division (ages 18-21 as of January 1)
1st place: Sophie Griswold, Pennsylvania
2nd place: Salem Sifford, Virginia
3rd place: Jon Chapman, California
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 find that competing in this contest is extremely valuable. It has allowed me to become more confident and comfortable during the interview process,” says Junior Holstein member Salem Sifford. “I would strongly encourage fellow Junior members to take advantage of this opportunity.”
For more information about the Virtual Interview Contest, or other Holstein Association USA youth programs, visit www.juniorholstein.com or contact Kelli Dunklee at [email protected].
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