Twenty-eight National Junior Angus Association (NJAA) members stepped up to the plate and knocked it out of the park, earning the prestigious Gold Award. As the highest honor a junior member can achieve, the award recognizes outstanding members as they reach the end of their junior careers. 

Established in 1980 by the American Angus Association and the 1980-81 National Junior Angus Board (NJAB), the Gold Award commends years of hard work. Applicants must be in their final year of junior membership and have previously earned Bronze and Silver Awards. By surpassing 3,000 points through activities like National Junior Angus Show (NJAS) contests, leadership conferences and participation with Angus Genetics Inc. (AGI), these juniors prove they’re worthy of the top title.

Reese McKenzie Anderson

Reese McKenzie Anderson, from Chrisman, Ill., says she is grateful for the NJAA shaping her into the individual she is today.

“As I reflect back on my career as a junior member, I recognize how much of an impact the National Junior Angus Association has had on me as an individual,” Anderson says.

Throughout Anderson’s years in the NJAA, she has been an active and dedicated member, participating in a wide range of opportunities, including competing in contests at the NJAS and exhibiting bred-and-owned (B&O) heifer projects across the country. Anderson says each experience has contributed to her personal growth and passion for the industry.

“The work ethic, communication skills and competitive demeanor that I have developed as a member of this organization are what will set me up for success in my career one day,” she adds.

Anderson credits the NJAA not only for developing those skills, but also for the relationships she has built along the way. Through her involvement, she has formed meaningful connections with mentors and lifelong friendships within the Angus industry.

Following her junior career, the daughter of Scott and Cindy Anderson plans to remained involved in the agricultural industry while also pursuing a career in medicine. She intends to apply to medical school with the goal of becoming an emergency department physician serving a rural community.

While her future career may extend beyond agriculture, Anderson is committed to staying rooted in the industry by continuing the legacy of Double Diamond Angus.

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Ella Brooks

As Ella Brooks’ time with the NJAA comes to a close, she reflects on her journey with deep gratitude for the connections and experiences that have shaped her.

“I truly appreciate every person that has supported me and inspired me during this journey,” Brooks explains. “My involvement in the NJAA has allowed me to learn valuable skills and experience personal growth.”

Brooks is from Prophetstown, Ill., and says she is grateful for the connections and friendships she has developed during her time within the NJAA, as well as the opportunities she was offered. Brooks exhibited cattle at the state, regional and national levels and competed at the NJAS for 11 consecutive summers. She says one of her greatest accomplishments was exhibiting the 2019 grand champion owned cow-calf pair.

Beyond the ring, the daughter of Jeff and Shelley Brooks was involved in leadership and educational contests, as well as attending leadership conferences.

“Attending LEAD (Leaders Engaged in Angus Development) and Raising the Bar conferences enabled me to increase my leadership abilities and learn about agriculture in different locations around the United States,” she notes.

Brooks says she was able to apply these skills by serving as a director and show secretary of the Illinois Junior Angus Association, as well as representing Illinois on its royalty team and as Angus Queen in 2023.

Brooks is majoring in architecture at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, and is an active member of the University Honors Program. She looks forward to studying abroad in Copenhagen, where she will be studying the city’s architecture, participating in immersive field study tours and developing her design skills.

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Kaitlyn Burns

At the age of just 8 years old, Kaitlyn Burns, from Bosworth, Mo., began her journey showing cattle. Reflecting on her involvement, Burns says the experiences and accomplishments have shaped who she is today. 

“It has been such an honor to be a part of this wonderful junior Angus association,” Burns says.

Burns, the daughter of Russell and Heather Burns, has actively been involved in numerous 4-H activities and FFA contest teams throughout her career. She attended her first NJAS in 2017, where she participated in quiz bowl and public speaking. 

She found success in the ring by exhibiting the supreme champion bull with her B&O bull at the Missouri Cattlemen’s Youth Expo in 2024. Burns explains this was a major accomplishment because she raised the bull from Day 1.

“It had always been my dream to win something big like that,” she comments.

Currently, Burns is a student at Northwest Missouri State University, where she is majoring in agricultural business with a minor in animal science. After graduating, she plans to build a career as a financial officer, working with farmers in agricultural lending after graduation. 

In addition to her career goals, Burns plans to stay involved in her family’s row crop and cattle operation. She hopes to carry on her grandfather’s Angus genetic lines, while continuing to improve and grow the program for future generations.

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Creed Caldwell

As Creed Caldwell of Parker, Kan., son of Matt Caldwell, reflects on his junior career, he recalls attending his first Kansas Angus Preview Show in 2020 and the influence the experience had on him.

“I remember being nervous and worried that I wouldn’t fit in when I arrived at the show, but the people who would become my Angus family were quick to make me feel welcome and like I had a place in the organization,” Caldwell says.

Although Caldwell joined the NJAA later than his peers, his connection to the breed began at a young age, traveling with his father to bull sales across Kansas, which sparked a love for the seedstock industry. During his time in NJAA, he was involved in various contests, from showing his B&O heifer to competing in team sales. Attending the Raising the Bar conference further expanded his involvement.

Over the years, Caldwell explains the connections he has built through his involvement have become some of the most important relationships in his life.

“My involvement in the National Junior Angus Association has prepared me for my adult life like no other opportunity, connecting me with mentors, industry leaders and lifelong friends,” he says.

After receiving an animal science degree from Kansas State University (K-State), Caldwell plans to pursue a career in livestock marketing or genetics, while continuing to grow his herd. He says his ultimate goal is to move back to Parker and expand his operation to be his sole source of income.

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Anne Dameron

For Anne Dameron of Towanda, Ill., the NJAA has served her in many ways.

“The Angus breed has been more than just cattle to me — it is a community, a foundation and a driving force behind my future,” she says. “I will forever have a deep sense of gratitude for the NJAA and all they have invested in me.”

Dameron embraced a wide range of opportunities during her time as a junior member, from competing in the show ring to serving in leadership roles. She served on the NJAB from 2024-26 and was named vice chairman at the 2025 NJAS.

“I think as a kid, I didn’t fully realize the ways that just being a member in the NJAA were benefiting me as an individual,” she shares. “Now, being at the end of this journey, I see more clearly what the NJAA has done for me.”

She also credits the NJAA for providing lifelong friendships, valuable life skills, and opportunities to travel and grow within the industry. 

The daughter of Jeff and Jennifer Dameron is studying agricultural communications at the University of Illinois. Dameron plans to pursue a master’s degree upon the completion of her undergraduate degree. Her long-term goal is to be in a career where she can apply both her education and passion for the industry.

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Brooklyn Davis

“Some of my earliest memories in the Angus world weren’t banners or big wins, but the quiet mornings in the barn when it was just me, my calves and the sound of the fans humming,” says Brooklyn Davis.

Those early moments helped lay the foundation for her junior career, where many of her most meaningful lessons came beyond the banners and awards. From daily responsibilities in the barn to time spent preparing for the show ring, she says she learned constancy, resilience and the value of showing up, even on the most challenging days.

“The Angus association didn’t just teach me to raise cattle,” Davis adds. “It taught me how to grow. How to lead. How to believe in myself. And most importantly, it gave me a community that feels like home.”

One of her most memorable accomplishments came in the National Junior Angus Showmanship Contest, where she was selected to represent her state and earned third place, achieving a long-time goal.

Davis is a rising senior at Virginia Tech University, where she studies agribusiness and animal science.

The daughter of Terry and Tina Davis, from Winchester, Va., explains the NJAA has been a big part of her life, and it is a bittersweet feeling knowing the chapter is closing.

“As I am near the end of my junior years, I feel a mix of gratitude and a little bit of heartbreak,” Davis says.

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Emma Anne Deppe

Emma Anne Deppe of Vincent, Iowa, is a third-generation Angus breeder who says the NJAA laid the groundwork for her future.

“The skills I gained from the experience I had with the National Junior Angus Association set the foundation I needed to build my career and grow our family tradition,” Deppe mentions.

Raised on a multigenerational farm, the daughter of Matt and Sara Deppe learned early the value of hard work and consistency through cattle management and preparing for shows. Her involvement in NJAA programs further developed her communication skills and confidence while connecting her with peers across the country.

A defining moment came at the Iowa State Fair, where she exhibited the champion Angus steer and led the Parade of Champions, an accomplishment reflecting her years of dedication and hard work.

Currently attending Iowa State University (Iowa State) studying communications, Deppe’s goal is to work with youth and advocate for agriculture, as well as give back to the community that shaped her into the person she is today.

“I hope to encourage the next generation to build confidence, embrace challenges and find their place, just as I did,” she says.

Deppe says she plans to remain involved in the Angus community while continuing to build on the foundation developed through her junior experiences.

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Ashton Dillow

Despite growing up on commercial operation based on Hereford genetics, Ashton Dillow of Villa Ridge, Ill., found herself involved in The Business Breed. At 8 years old, Dillow began showing at local cattle shows.

When Dillow exhibited her second Angus heifer at the Eastern Regional Junior Angus Show in 2018, she says she knew the association was where she was meant to be.

“The Angus association has been a ‘home’ for the past eight years,” Dillow says. “While I am sad to see my time in the ring come to an end, I am excited to see what the genetics I have showcased over the years continue to produce for other exhibitors.”

Robert and Susan Spaulding’s daughter will be a junior this year at Southern Illinois University, pursuing a degree in agribusiness economics. While Dillow is unsure what career path she will take, she knows she wants to work directly with producers.

As she reflects on her time in the NJAA, she says the memories she made will be ones she cherishes forever.

“The memories I have made as a junior member will stay with me forever because of the people who have supported me along the way,” Dillow shares. “As an ‘outsider,’ I was welcomed into the Angus association with open arms.”

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Erin Driscoll

The daughter of Joe and Dawn Driscoll, Erin Driscoll says her journey as a member of the NJAA has helped shape both her character and future goals. Since she began showing Angus cattle in 2016, Driscoll has embraced countless opportunities to grow as a leader, communicator and advocate for the beef industry.

Throughout her junior career, Driscoll has participated in numerous contests, while also exhibiting cattle, experiences she says have pushed her to learn and grow.

The Williamsburg, Iowa, local has been involved in multiple Raising the Bar and LEAD conferences, too. 

“Traveling to these conferences allowed me to see the diversity of agriculture across the country and reinforced how important it is for young people to stay engaged and invested in the future of our industry,” Driscoll shares.

She says she has prioritized leadership throughout her time in the NJAS, serving as Iowa Angus Princess, Miss Iowa Angus and an Iowa Junior Angus board member.

Driscoll’s career goals include advocating for agriculture while remaining involved in the Angus industry and her family’s cattle operation.

“The lessons I have learned through my experiences as a junior member — hard work, leadership and service — will continue to guide me as a I pursue these goals and work to give back to the industry that has given me so much,” he says.

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Ben Forbes

Growing up on a commercial cattle farm, Ben Forbes of Zachary, La., says the Angus breed has taught him passion and hard work. Since he began showing cattle at the age of 9, Forbes has developed a deep appreciation for the livestock industry and the role it plays in everyday life.

“Raised within amazing fields and steadfast herds, I have learned invaluable lessons about stewardship, perseverance and the critical role of agriculture in our society,” he says.

While in the NJAA, Forbes says he’s learned skills in grooming, nutrition planning and attentive care for his show animals.

The son of Melanie Forbes currently attends Louisiana State University, where he studies agricultural business. He says he hopes his coursework will allow him to gain a deeper understanding of sustainable farming practices, which he plans to apply on his own farm.

As Forbes reflects on his time in the NJAA, he recognizes he has learned skills that he will carry for the rest of his life.

“This experience has taught me the importance of attention to detail, patience and the rewards of disciplined effort,” he explains. “Showing Angus cattle since the age of 9 years old will forever hold a special place in my mind and heart.”

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Anna Geddes

“I started showing in the Washington Junior Angus Association in 2015 as a shy kid who loved cattle but wasn’t sure where I fit,” says Anna Geddes of Connell, Wash. “Over time, the people, experiences and challenges I encountered helped me grow into someone confident in her voice, grounded in her values and committed to serving others.”

The daughter of Benjamin and Kellie Pierson-Geddes says she quickly found her place in the NJAA, becoming involved in leadership and educational opportunities.

“As I became more involved, I realized that the Angus community wasn’t just a place to compete, it was a place to belong,” she notes.

Geddes served as the Washington Junior Angus Association treasurer, queen, president and social media representative, which she says taught her how to represent something bigger than herself.

That sense of connection and purpose helped shape her ambitions within the beef industry. Geddes is studying animal science at the University of Idaho. Her long-term goals are to become a ruminant nutritionist and work directly with ranchers, while also improving her own herd.

As her involvement comes to a close with the NJAA, she recognizes all it has done for her as an individual. 

“Being a junior member of the National Junior Angus Association has been one of the most defining parts of my life,” she says.

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Sam Greiman

“When I look back on my years as a junior member, what stands out most is not a single banner or buckle, but the steady progression of moments that shaped who I am today,” says Sam Greiman.

Greiman, from Perry, Iowa, explains he didn’t always have a passion for the show ring. In fact, he recalls stepping away early before realizing the value of the experience. After watching his sisters age out, he returned with a new perspective.

Through involvement in the Iowa Junior Angus Association (IJAA) and NJAA, Greiman has participated in field days, state preview shows and national events. LEAD played a key role in pushing Greiman outside of his comfort zone and helped shape his leadership abilities.

As Greiman ages out of junior eligibility, his focus turns to giving back to the industry through mentorship and advocacy. The son of Kurt and Tina Greiman studies at Iowa State, with plans to build his own Angus operation in the future. 

“My junior career taught me how to lead, serve and stay committed even when the path isn’t easy,” Greiman mentions. “Those lessons will guide me as I step into the next chapter, and I’m excited to continue giving back to the breed and community that shaped me.”

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JessaLynn Hudson

“My junior Angus career, which began in 2015, has been one of the most defining and rewarding experiences of my life,” JessaLynn Hudson of Belvidere, Neb., says.

What started for her as an opportunity to show cattle quickly became something more. Through her involvement in the NJAA, Hudson built lifelong friendships, found mentors and developed a deeper sense of purpose within the Angus industry.

From early mornings in the barn to long days at cattle shows, each experience contributed to her growth. Along the way, Hudson developed strong communication and leadership skills, while being surrounded by driven individuals who pushed them outside their comfort zone.

Leadership opportunities played a major role in shaping her confidence. Through participation in events and contests, like the Auxiliary-sponsored All-American Certified Angus Beef (CAB) Cook-Off Contest, Hudson learned how to lead by example and support those around her. 

“One of the most impactful parts of my junior Angus career has been the leadership opportunities,” she adds. 

The daughter of Corey Bill and Gina Hudson is finishing her final year at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln studying animal science and agricultural communications and plans to stay involved in the beef industry by advocating for agriculture, promoting the Angus breed and mentoring youth. 

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Hannah Jones

“Through my involvement with the [American] Angus Association, I have developed a strong sense of responsibility, work ethic and commitment,” says Hannah Jones, daughter of Ty and Melanie Jones.

Through hands-on experience with cattle and involvement in activities, Jones says she gained confidence and developed a deeper understanding of the industry.

Jones, from Flora, Miss., says one of the most memorable highlights of her junior career came in 2024 with her Angus heifer, Dojo. After facing challenges early on, her persistence paid off when Dojo captured her class win, going on to win supreme heifer at Dixie National. Jones says this win solidified her passion for the industry.

Beyond on the showring, she credits much of her growth to the knowledge she’s gained along the way. 

“One of the most valuable things I gained from this experience is a deeper understanding of genetics and the beef industry,” she notes.

Looking ahead, Jones plans to remain active in the livestock industry through her cattle operation and photography. With goals of working alongside a livestock photography team while building her own business, she hopes to capture meaningful moments for others in the show ring.

“Photography is a way for me to give back to the community that helped shape me into the person I am,” she says.

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Rosalind Kidwell

Whether taking the stage for a prepared speech or representing the breed as Miss American Angus, Rosalind Kidwell says her time in the NJAA has been nothing short of life-changing. 

The Gentryville, Ind., native says her involvement began in the NJAA at a young age. Through the years, she has developed into a confident leader and advocate for the Angus breed. From delivering her first prepared speech in the seventh grade to being crowned the 2025 Miss American Angus, each step in Kidwell’s journey has contributed to her personal growth and passion for the industry.

“Throughout my time involved in the National Junior Angus Association, I have had an amazing experience that has given me lifelong connections, friendships and experiences,” Kidwell shares. “I attribute much of my success and growth as a leader to my involvement in the Angus Association.”
Through contests and leadership conferences, the daughter of Jud and Carla Kidwell also discovered her passion for agriculture and defined her long-term goals.

Currently, Kidwell studies biochemistry at Purdue University. In the future, she plans to pursue a career as a veterinary pharmacologist, while remaining engaged in various aspects of the Angus breed.

“Whether it be though giving support to Indiana juniors by serving on the adult association committees or reconnecting with old friends at Angus shows in the future, the Angus family that I have will always be around me,” she says.

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Ava Leibfried

“Looking back on my career as a junior member, the National Junior Angus Association has given me three things I am eternally grateful for: perspective, experiences and friendships,” says Ava Leibfried of Platteville, Wis.

Leibfried’s junior career has been marked by involvement across many facets of the Angus industry. From earning a spot on the winning quiz bowl team in 2018 to serving as chairwoman of the NJAB and finding success in the show ring, each opportunity helped shape her growth and understanding of the breed.

Through her involvement, Leibfried developed a broader perspective on the beef industry and the people who make it strong.

“Traveling across the country and meeting people from all different backgrounds has broadened my understanding of the beef industry far beyond what I could have learned at home,” she explains.

Moving forward, the daughter of Nick and Jessica Leibfried plans to remain closely connected to the industry that shaped her. She currently attends Iowa State, with plans to pursue a career as an animal health sales specialist and expand her retail beef business through Leibfried Land and Livestock. 

Leibfried says her ultimate goal is to invest in the industry the same way it did in her.

“Whether that is through leadership, mentorship or simply being an advocate for agriculture, my goal is to contribute to a future where the next generation has the same opportunities, experiences and lifelong friendships that I have been fortunate to gain,” Leibfried says.

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Kasey Meyer

After watching her older sister be involved in the NJAA, Kasey Meyer of Blue Hill, Neb., says she could not wait to join herself. Once she joined, she immersed herself in contests like the Cook-Off, quiz bowl and team sales, all while building friendships and gaining new skills along the way.

“As my time as a junior member soon comes to an end, it is bittersweet to look back at how greatly this organization has and will continue to impact my life,” Meyer says.

She says one of the most memorable parts of her journey has been the connections she formed at NJAS. Even early on, experiences like participating in the Angus Mentoring Program (AMP) helped shape her perspective and build confidence.

In addition to personal growth, Meyer’s involvement also influenced her entrepreneurial pursuits. She now operates KGM Engraving, a tag engraving business year-round and has recently expanded into selling show heifers. Connections made through the NJAA have played a key role in growing her business and reaching customers across the country.

Looking ahead, Meyer plans to continue building on those experiences while staying connected to the industry that has shaped her. No matter where her future leads, the daughter of Brandon and Kami Meyer says she will remain grateful for the opportunities and relationships gained through NJAA.

“I will forever be indebted to the [NJAA] and grateful for all it has brought me,” she explains.

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Drew Mickey

From Taylorville, Ill., Drew Mickey says the lessons he has learned while in the NJAA have played a key role in strengthening his own operation. 
“I have utilized strip-grazing and rotational grazing for many years within my operation, which has helped me to become more cost efficient and sustainable in my Angus herd,” Mickey says.

The son of Jon and Carla Mickey has found success at the national level, earning first-place finishes in auctioneering, the Cook-Off and team sales.

In addition to his work within the NJAA, he has been active in other youth livestock organizations, including the National Junior Swine Association and the Team Purebred Swine Association. Through those experiences, Mickey has gained knowledge and skills he applies back to the Angus breed.

He currently studies animal science and industry at K-State.

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Adam Miller

Adam Miller of Gridley, Ill., reflects on his NJAA career shaped by hard work, growth and a deep appreciation for the opportunities found within the breed.

From early involvement at the NJAS to years spent traveling with family to state, regional and national events, Miller was able to develop a well-rounded understanding of the industry. 

“I will always cherish the memories I have made during my incredible time as a junior member,” he says.

Throughout his junior career, he gained hands-on experience raising, feeding, evaluating and marketing Angus cattle, while also learning lessons that extended beyond the show ring.

“Hard work, determination, responsibility, humility and resilience became values I now carry into every part of my life,” he shares.

While success in the ring was meaningful, he notes the greatest growth often came from setbacks, which taught patience and the importance of continuous improvement.

As the son of Alan and Theresa Miller looks to the future, his goal remains rooted in the industry that shaped him. He plans to graduate from Oklahoma State University with a degree in animal science production and pursue a career within the beef industry with plans to eventually return home to his family’s operation.

“There is no doubt that staying involved in the industry that has built me to this point is crucial within my future plans,” Miller says.

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Eliza Patchin

Eliza Patchin credits her time in the NJAA with shaping both personal growth and future ambitions.

Patchin is from Mitchellville, Iowa, and says her involvement in NJAA programs provided opportunities to step outside her comfort zone while building knowledge and confidence.

“My experiences as a junior member have had a large impact in shaping who I am today,” Patchin says.

She says AMP and the NJAS contests played a key role in that development, helping build confidence from an early stage. 

One of her most memorable individual experiences came during her second year showing cattle, when Patchin competed in the beef science poster contest.

“This contest gave me the chance to research a topic I was passionate about while also developing my public speaking skills and building my confidence,” she mentions.

As her involvement grew, she carried those skills into other organizations, including AFA, FFA and 4-H, where Patchin continued to develop her skills as a speaker and leader. 

The daughter of Kristen and Jeffrey Patchin credits the Angus breed with helping shape her career path and will stay directly involved by maintaining a herd of Angus cattle. She plans to pursue a career in agricultural law, working to advocate for producers and the industry.

“The NJAA helped develop me into who I am today and directly influenced my career path,” she says. “The Angus breed has fueled my passion for the agriculture industry and inspired me to pursue a career as an agricultural attorney.”

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Gavin Rhode

As Gavin Rhode’s time in the NJAA comes to a close, he reflects on a journey defined by growth, hard work and lasting memories made both in and out of the show ring.

From long days at the Missouri State Fair to trips to the NJAS, his junior career has been filled with moments that shape his perspective. Alongside the big events, the son of Jeff and Susan Rhode values the quieter experiences just as much, like time spent at home with family and watching new calves in the pasture.

“It does not seem possible that my years in the National Junior Angus Association are coming to a close,” Rhode, of Stewartsville, Mo., says. “These years have been full of learning, discovery and growth for me, as well as making friends and creating special memories with my family.”

Early in his career, involvement in the Cook-off contest became a favorite part of his experience. Over time, he developed an interest in cattle management and breeding. 

His experience in the Angus breed also helped support his academic future. Through his involvement, Rhode earned multiple scholarships, allowing him to attend the University of Missouri–Columbia, where he studies agribusiness management with a minor in animal science.

“After graduating, I plan to start a career where I can work directly with livestock producers to help them improve their operations through advancements in science, technology or genetics,” Rhode says.

He also intends to continue building his family’s Angus herd, while staying actively involved in the beef industry though leadership and youth programs.

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Sydney Sanders

“When I look back on my time with the National Junior Angus Association, I cannot help but feel incredibly blessed,” says Sydney Sanders of Leesburg, Ohio.

Sanders’ junior career has been defined by growth, competition and meaningful experiences alongside her family. After getting her start at state and preview shows, she made her first trip to the NJAS in 2018, where she quickly realized both the level of competition and value of connection within the breed. 

Those early experiences fueled her drive to improve, eventually leading to one of her most memorable moments at the 2020 NJAS in Tulsa, Okla., when she won reserve champion owned heifer.

“Not only will the tears of joy and feeling of accomplishment be instilled in me forever, but the publicity and proof of ability that the win gave my family took our show career and operation to the next level,” she says.

Beyond the show ring, Sanders expanded her involvement through leadership opportunities, including in the 2023 LEAD conference, where she built lasting relationships and gained industry perspective.

Now preparing to transition out of her junior career, she reflects on the long-term influence of the association.

“I can confidently say that my time with the NJAA has equipped me with the work ethic, relationships and cow base necessary to continue leaving my mark on the breed,” she adds.

Sanders studies animal science at K-State, where she is a member of the livestock judging and national champion meat evaluation team

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Anna Scheurman

Anna Scheurman of Warsaw, Ohio, was raised on a farm that has been in her family since 1831, which is a legacy she says has shaped both her work ethic and passion for agriculture.

Growing up, she was actively involved in her family’s operation, which focuses on Angus cattle and hay production, while also expanding into the show cattle sector. Through her involvement in the NJAA, Scheurman gained hands-on experience and valuable life lessons.

“Due to my involvement with the NJAA and show cattle, I have been given experiences that drive me to succeed in life because I was taught to work hard and celebrate your achievements from your efforts,” Scheurman says.

The daughter of Kirk and Jeanette Scheurman’s junior career included leadership and service at both the state and regional level. She served as the Ohio Junior Angus Queen and Eastern Queen, held officer roles as treasurer and vice president, and contributed to junior association committees.
“All these experiences developed me into the person I am today,” she says. 

Scheurman recently graduated from Ohio University with a degree in nursing. She intends to begin her career as an oncology nurse at The Ohio State University James Cancer Center while continuing her education to become a nurse practitioner.

“The Angus breed will always be part of my life, whether being a food advocate for beef with my patients, taking care of the farmer as a nurse or helping my family on our Century Farm,” she says.

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Bryanna Smith

Raised at Smithland Angus in Russell Springs, Ky., Bryanna Smith’s earliest memories center not only around cattle, but on the people who built the program and sustained it. Through her involvement in the NJAA, she found those same values reflected across the country.

“This has always been just as much a people business as it is a cattle business, and I was raised around individuals who care deeply, not only about the Angus cow, but one another,” Smith says.

Her experiences in the NJAA extend beyond major milestones, with some of the most meaningful moments being time spent in the barn, conversations at shows and encouragement from fellow members.

The daughter of Henry Bryan and Melissa Smith says serving on the NJAB further strengthened her appreciation for the organization and opportunities it provides.

“Having the opportunity to wear the coveted green jacket is not something I have ever taken lightly,” she shares.

Now a student at the University of Kentucky pursuing degrees in agricultural economics and business, she plans to continue building on that foundation through further education and industry experience. No matter where her path leads, Smith plans to stay connected to the Angus breed and the value it represents.

“Above all, I am grateful for the opportunities this industry has given me, and I am committed to spending my life contributing back in a meaningful way through service, stewardship and a dedication to strengthening the Angus breed for future generations,” she says.

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Kilye Winge

When Kilye Winge of Cisco, Texas, first stepped into the show ring and contest rooms, she says she was a quiet, young member who kept to herself. Through her involvement in the NJAA, she found confidence, leadership and a passion for the industry.

“I was a shy, reserved girl who didn’t want to talk to anybody,” Winge says.

Her journey began at the NJAS, where she competed in sales talk and quiz bowl. What started as a nerve-racking experience quickly became a turning point, as those contests helped Winge build friendships and develop skills that carried throughout her junior career. 

As her confidence grew, so did her involvement. She went on to serve her state junior association for three years, finding purpose in mentoring younger members and giving back to the organizations that helped shape her.

One of her proudest moments came in 2024 when Winge represented Texas in the National Junior Angus Showmanship contest.

Through each experience, she gained not only knowledge of the Angus breed, but also life skills that will guide her future. The daughter of Kerstin Winge currently studies animal science at Texas Tech University, with plans to go to embryology school and eventually return to her family’s operation.

“I can confidently say that more than anything in my heart, I want the chance to go back home and continue the legacy that has been handed down from generation to generation,” Winge says.

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Lauren Wolter

As Lauren Wolter of Aviston, Ill., reflects on a junior career shaped by opportunity and connection, she says the NJAA played a defining role in her story.

“When I reflect upon the past 21 years, I am confident that my involvement in the NJAA has been one of the most influential chapters of my life,” says the daughter of Bradley and Kimberly Wolter.

Her involvement in the Angus breed sparked interests that extended far beyond the pasture, including meat science, agricultural policy and service.

Through shows, contests and conferences, Wolter built relationships with mentors and peers who helped guide both her academic and professional pursuits. Experiences like Raising the Bar conferences and meat lab workshops ultimately influenced her decision to pursue collegiate meat judging and further explore the beef industry.

Those connections also introduced her to opportunities for high education, as fellow junior members helped shape Wolter’s college journey and ambitions. She currently studies animal science and industry at K-State.

As she looks ahead, Wolter plans to remain deeply involved in agriculture while expanding her family’s operation and reaching consumers in new ways.

“In the future, I hope to return to my family’s cattle operation to pursue the expansion of our direct-to-consumer beef business and educate consumers about the science behind their beef,” she notes.

Her long-term goals include continuing her education, gaining industry experience and eventually growing a business that connects high-quality beef with informed consumers.

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Jensen Woodworth

Jensen Woodworth says the NJAA has played a key role in shaping both his character and long-term goals.

Through involvement in the NJAA programs and events, Woodworth, from Enterprise, Kan., developed leadership, responsibility and a strong work ethic that extends far beyond the show ring. Alongside those skills, the relationships he formed became one of the most meaningful parts of his experience.

“The National Junior Angus Association has played a defining role in shaping who I am today,” Woodworth says.

The son of Jason and Brooke Woodworth says his time in the organization also reinforced the importance of dedication, integrity and giving back to the agricultural community. Those lessons, he explains, will continue to influence his future and guide the path he chooses.

Woodworth currently studies agricultural technology management at K-State.

Looking ahead, he plans to remain closely connected to the Angus industry, building on the foundation created through his junior career. Whether through raising cattle or continued involvement in the association, he sees the breed as a lifelong commitment.

“My future will always be closely tied to the Angus breed and the cattle industry that has shaped so much of my life,” Woodworth adds.