Friday, April 5th
9:00 a.m. Novice Heifer Fitting, Prelims
9:20 a.m. Experienced Horse Fitting, Prelims
9:40 a.m. Novice Dairy Fitting, Prelims
10:00 a.m. Experienced Dairy Fitting, Prelims
10:20 a.m. Novice Sheep Fitting, Prelims
10:40 a.m. Experienced Sheep Fitting, Prelims
11:00 a.m. Novice Heifer Fitting, Prelims
11:20 a.m. Experienced Bull Fitting, Prelims
11:40 a.m. Novice Goat Fitting, Prelims
12:00 p.m. Experienced Goat Fitting, Prelims
5:00 p.m. Opening Ceremonies
5:10 p.m. Heifer Fitting, Finals
5:30 p.m. Bull Fitting, Finals
5:50 p.m. Novice Sheep Fitting, Finals
6:10 p.m. Sheep Fitting, Finals
6:30 p.m. Novice Horse Fitting, Finals
6:50 p.m. Horse Fitting, Finals
7:10 p.m. Lamb Lead, Prelims
7:30 p.m. Novice Goat Fitting, Finals
7:50 p.m. Goat Fitting, Finals
8:10 p.m. Novice Dairy Fitting, Finals
8:30 p.m. Dairy Fitting, Finals
8:50 p.m. Novice Swine Showmanship, Prelims I
9:10 p.m. Novice Swine Showmanship, Prelims II
Saturday, April 6th
9:00 a.m. Experienced Swine Showmanship, Prelims I
9:25 a.m. Experienced Swine Showmanship, Prelims II
9:50 a.m. Novice Swine Showmanship, Prelims I
10:15 a.m. Novice Swine Showmanship, Prelims II
10:40 a.m. Experienced Horse Showmanship, Prelims
11:05 a.m. Novice Horse Showmaship, Finals
11:30 a.m. Experienced Sheep Showmanship, Prelims
11:55 a.m. Novice Sheep Showmanship, Finals
12:20 p.m. Experienced Beef Showmanship, Prelims
12:45 p.m. Novice Beef Showmanship, Finals
1:10 p.m. Experienced Goat Showmanship, Prelims
1:35 p.m. Novice Goat Showmanship, Finals
2:00 p.m. Novice Swine Showmanship, Finals
2:25 p.m. Experineced Dairy Showmanship, Prelims
2:30 - 4:30 p.m. Red Barn Reception | South Dakota Agricultural Heritage Museum
2:50 p.m. Novice Dairy Showmanship, Finals
5:00 p.m. Opening Ceremonies
5:15 p.m. Beef Showmanship Finals
5:35 p.m. Sheep Showmanship Finals
5:55 p.m. Little International Auction
6:15 p.m. Goat Showmanship Finals
6:35 p.m. Horse Showmanship Finals
6:55 p.m. Dairy Showmanship Finals
7:20 p.m. Lamb Lead Finals
8:00 p.m. Swine Showmanship Finals
8:30 p.m. Honored Agriculturalist Recognition
8:40 p.m. Round Robin
9:30 p.m. Staff Recognition
9:45 p.m. Awards
10:00 p.m. Little International Concert | Dacotah Bank Center
Executive Committee Editor: Tessa Erdmann
Catalog Superintendent: Kristen Smith
Catalog Committee: Beth Holst, Grace Sargent, Sydney Sheffield, Ella Stiefvater
Photography Superintendent: Sarah Sergant
Photography Committee: Megan Tol, Jaleigh Hallsted, Ryan Braniff
Cover Designer: Kristen Smith
Welcome to the 101st Little International exposition at South Dakota State University! A tradition since 1921, Little “I” is an SDSU event I look forward to attending each year.
There are plenty of reasons why I love Little “I,” primarily because more than 150 students from a variety of majors run and manage the event. Thanks to their enthusiasm, involvement and leadership, these highly motivated students are a great example of what makes our university premier.
Through Little “I,” hundreds of high school and college students come together at the largest two-day agricultural exposition in the country to showcase and refine their skills for a lifetime of success in agriculture. Our goal for this exposition is to highlight the tasks ahead of them in agriculture and beyond – tasks that require the development of innovation, trust, responsibility, collaboration, and hard work. Little “I” is the embodiment of these qualities, and South Dakota State University is proud to host such a fine organization.
Thank you for attending this great event, and I hope you enjoy your time at South Dakota State University.
Barry H. Dunn, South Dakota State University President
It’s my pleasure to welcome you to the celebration of the 101st Little International. During my time at South Dakota State University, I’ve seen the impact that Little International has made on both participants and staff members. Our students gain valuable leadership experience by working together to coordinate all of the behind-the-scenes details that help make the largest student-run livestock exposition in the nation come to life each year.
I began my role as the South Dakota Corn Endowed Dean of the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences in June of 2022, after serving as the Head of the Department of Animal Science for nine years, and Interim Head of the Department of Dairy and Food Science for two years. There are many examples and a wealth of great stories about how Little International provides opportunities to make lifelong memories and lasting connections. I would invite you to take some time to help us reflect on Little I’s rich history with other Little I supporters and friends by stopping by the Red Barn Reception taking place in the South Dakota Agricultural Heritage Museum April 6th from 2:30-4:30 p.m.
What I enjoy most about Little “I” is the celebration of our livestock industry and the coming together of future students, current students and alumni. We welcome nearly 2,000 high school students from South Dakota and the region to campus on the first day of Little I to participate in judging contests organized by hard-working Little I staff members and SDSU faculty members. Many of those high school students are inspired by their experiences and go on to join us as CAFES students and Little I staff members after high school. Our current students develop leadership skills, organizational skills and establish life-long friendships. We have even had a marriage proposal or two associated with Little “I”. Each year, we recognize an “Honored Agriculturist” and welcome back alumni and friends who make this event even more special.
This year’s theme, “New Century, Same Legacy,” shows true through 158 students serving on the Little I staff. The exhibitors and staff members have worked countless hours to put on this outstanding show and competition, and I am very proud of their efforts.
I look forward to celebrating this event with the hardworking students who put on this event as well as visiting with the alumni who have made this event such a tradition over the years.
Dr. Joseph Cassady, South Dakota Corn Endowed Dean of the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences
It is my sincere honor to welcome you to the 101st Little International!
We are once again celebrating the greatest event of the year. This event is the accumulation of six months of hard work from the 158 amazing staff members. Each year we bear witness to the amazing competition between students that will be in each other’s lives forever. I welcome you to the Animal Science Arena, home of not only Little International but also dreams.
Little International is a great way to get introduced to this university when you are in high school and get to experience the competition and the atmosphere of the arena. The number of opportunities that Little “I” has for emerging leaders to pursue to show what they are truly capable of. I am excited to see all the new friendships and memories made this year!
recognize these outstanding members of the community and industry throughout the catalog, banners, and advertisements and they deserve a big thank you from all of us. Our advisors Dr. Robert Thaler and Dr. Rosemarie Nold are outstanding in their help. They have given us the resources we need to achieve and surpass our goals. Our alumni are the best, and I am excited to be an alumnus someday and view this event from the stands. I am excited, again, to have an event for alumni to compete in and relive their times here at SDSU. We have an alumni highpoint returning for its second year, and is open to all alumni. The competition is available online and is a test of their true knowledge of all the contests we hold here at Little I.
As my time leading Little “I” comes to a close, we have a passionate young man as our 102nd Little International Manager, Teigen Hadrick. Teigen has a great drive that will propel him to lead the staff next year.
This year’s slogan “New Century, Same Legacy” speaks to me as Little International is a tradition I have been waiting a long time to be a part of and to make my mark in. I have been coming to Little “I” for roughly 15 years, spending 10 of those years competiting. It has always been enjoyable to see the competition and the camaraderie between everyone. For me, seeing family participate in Little I and be on staff and on the executive team, I am extremely honored to be a part of this great organization that is a great family event for me. To see everything that is put into this event is an experience unlike any other with how everyone works at such a high level to give everyone that participates the best experience possible.
None of what you see would be possible without our hardworking staff members. We have 158 students on staff, and these people are really the cream of the crop with their passion, dedication, enthusiasm, and respect for this event.
I would like to thank all our sponsors for being so generous in helping us reach more students and give them more opportunities to succeed and rise to the occasion. You will
Once again, welcome to the 101st Little International!
101st Little International Manager
I am honored to welcome you all to the 101st Little International!
Each year the staff spends countless hours planning what I believe is the greatest show on the iconic green chips. This year’s slogan, “New Century, Same Legacy” resonates with me in many different ways. This is an organization that continues to embody the same legacy for the last 100 years as we utilize new technologies to bring this event into the future while sticking to our original roots of Little International.
This year’s event wouldn’t be possible without the hard work of our 158 staff members. Over the past six months, our staff members have not only attended school full-time but have also dedicated many hours out of their already busy schedules to help make this year’s Little “I” such a success. Without their passion and dedication towards this organization, and the agricultural industry, the event would be nothing.
This long-standing SDSU tradition has spanned over five generations of individuals throughout its time. It has given students the opportunity to grow their leadership abilities, create long-lasting friendships, give them hands-on learning opportunities, and allow them to advocate for our great industry.
Our event not only impacts SDSU undergraduate students but it also gives high school students involved in 4-H and FFA from nearly six different states a taste of the great tradition and school through our Career Development Events. This event allows them to be a part of the tradition while meeting our outstanding SDSU students and faculty members. I personally believe that the experience and the high-quality competition that the students get from this event is second to none.
resources necessary to succeed as an organization. I also would like to thank our generous sponsors. You can find our 101st Little “I” sponsors throughout this catalog, the banners in the arena, and of course on our social media. Without this help, our dreams truly couldn’t have become the reality they are today.
Joining Little “I” my freshman year was truly one of the best decisions I made. For the past two years, I have had the opportunity to serve on the Livestock Transportation Committee, which is where the committee members trailer animals from the different units to the arena for the competitors to show. After two years of serving on the committee, I decided I wanted to give back in a larger way, which led me to run for the manager role last year.
As I end my welcome and we close out on the 101st Little International, I would like to recognize and thank one individual whose faith and love for the organization has never wavered, your 101st Little International Manager Isaac Berg. Isaac truly has gone above and beyond when it comes to Little “I”. He is an individual who pushes everyone to be the best they can be and will be your biggest supporter no matter what. Without his wealth of Little “I” knowledge, we would not see all the successful changes that we are witnessing today. Thank you Isaac for your time and dedication to SDSU Little “I”, I am grateful I had the opportunity to work alongside you this past
Thank you all again for attending this great event, and please
As I mentioned previously this year’s event couldn’t have been put together without our staff members but I would also like to thank and recognize our two outstanding advisors Dr. Robert Thaler and Dr. Rosie Nold who have helped to give us the
South Dakota State University alumni Adam Krause is from Clear Lake, South Dakota, where he farms with his dad and brother on a row crop operation and manages a nursery pig barn. Adam and his wife, Taylor, have two children: Hayes, age 3, and Eliza, who was born in November.
Krause graduated from SDSU in May of 2016 with a degree in agricultural business and minors in animal science and economics. On campus, Krause was active in the Swine Club, Alpha Gamma Rho and Little International.
When Krause was a freshman in college, he received the High Point Freshman Award through Little International and later on became the 93rd manager in 2016. Some of Krause’s favorite memories of Little “I” include putting up the iconic red barn, showing a pig his freshman year and proposing to his wife on the green chips.
Krause enjoys Little “I” because it’s more than just a showmanship competition. The strong reputation of the
Growing up on his family’s 5th generation farm just south of Canton, South Dakota, Clayton Sorum has always considered himself to be a product of agriculture and agricultural education. His great-grandparents broke soil on the farm in 1870.
After graduating from Canton High School, he attended South Dakota State University, where he majored in Ag Education. During his time at SDSU, Clayton was active in South Dakota FFA, Collegiate Farm Bureau, KSDJ Radio, and Little International, serving on the 97th and 98th Little “I” staff as the ag business management assistant and ag sales superintendent.
Clayton was an active participant in many of the judging contests Little “I” offered and even showed in the novice swine show in 2021, where he and his pig, Cletus, took a proud 6th place.
From college, Clayton learned to try things he hadn’t done before and encouraged others to do the same. Judging never interested him but as a freshman he participated in livestock,
organization fits because “it runs itself,” and he believes it’s because the superintendents train the assistants by leaving great notes. This is done because there is a high standard and expectation to do your job well for the good of the future of Little “I”. Eight years later, Krause still uses his experiences and life lessons learned from the great organization, and credits it for why he loves to serve his industry and community.
Currently, Krause is serving in his second year as president of the SD Pork Producers Council. Nationally, he has been a South Dakota delegate at the National Pork Forum for four years.
When he’s not working on the farm or with his family, Adam can be found fishing or hunting, spending time with family and friends, or strategizing for the next Krause Kooking Show.
The Krause Kooking Show started as “a happy accident” for Krause. He uses the platform to connect a producer like himself to consumers. On the channel, he cooks pork which is an animal protein that is often misunderstood and overcooked. He hopes to show consumers that anyone can cook any type of animal protein and make it delicious with a little knowledge and a meat thermometer “#145please”.
Krause wishes the best of luck to all contestants and hopes everyone enjoys the everlasting tradition here at South Dakota State! #LongLiveLittleI
dairy and horse judging. These events gave him valuable experiences to diversify himself and try something new.
Clayton enjoys seeing the way that Little “I” brings the ag community together and the unique opportunities it gives to students who might have never shown an animal. The well known event is cherished by many and unique for the university and the state of South Dakota.
Upon graduation from SDSU in December of 2021, he went to work as a farm broadcaster for a short period before starting the agriculture program at Tea Area High School.
In just one year, his program has seen over 150 students cross through his doorway, the construction of an industrial greenhouse, two tractor restoration projects, and just recently acquired a flock of 15 laying hens.
In his free time, he still works at his family’s farm, plays guitar, and spends plenty of time fishing at Lake Okoboji. Today, Clayton resides in Lennox, SD, with his trusty dog Moose and is engaged to be married in June of this year to his fiancé Kate Stewart.
Hello, everyone, and welcome to the 101st Little International!
This year’s event is full of returning traditions like the iconic big red barn and the green chips, as well as some newer additions such as the Beef Fitting Contest and a concert that will be held on Saturday night in celebration of another successful year of Little “I”!
For nearly six months SDSU undergraduate students have been working diligently in preparation for the event with hopes of giving students the opportunity to show off their skills, try something new, create long-lasting connections, and welcome FFA and 4-H members onto our great campus for a day.
This year’s theme “New Century, Same Legacy” will truly set the powerful tone for the next 100 years of Little “I”. As we continue on with the great traditions that were once created by SDSU Little “I” alumni we are running into this new century full of passion and excitement for what is to come.
This great tradition has a special place in my heart as I too have a love for everything Little “I” related. One of my favorite aspects of Little “I” is that it is truly a place for everyone. From event planning, communication, and livestock handling to putting on 4-H and FFA contests, this event requires a large variety of skill sets allowing you to find your place and help make an impact on the longstanding tradition.
Throughout my time at SDSU, I have had the amazing opportunity to take part in this tradition through the Advertising, Advocacy, and Publicity Committee, serving as the assistant Communications Coordinator to now serving as the Communications Coordinator. Through these positions, as well as the CAFES Advocate position I have been able to see and experience the tradition and vision of Little “I”.
Through my role as CAFES Advocate, I represent the agricultural students of SDSU and serve as a member of the Prexy Council Executive team, which is a student-led governing body of nearly 30 clubs and organizations within CAFES.
During my year of service, I have had the opportunity to collaborate with an outstanding Prexy Council Executive team where we work diligently to host events such as the Ice Cream Social, Career Fair Networking Social, and our largest event coming up - Ag Week, what used to be known as Ag Day. As you will read on page 40 of the catalog, this year we are expanding Ag Day to Ag Week to make the celebration of our great industry last even longer. Just like Little “I” the purpose of Ag Week is to celebrate the agricultural industry and appreciate the individuals within it. We invite you all to attend this year’s festivities.
On behalf of our CAFES students, I would again like to welcome you to the greatest show of the year, the 101st Little International!
Tessa Erdmann
I am happy to welcome you to the 101st Little International. I am proud of all the work that Isaac and the rest of the 101st staff have put into this event. The time and dedication to the history and legacy of Little International is unmatched. It is a truly humbling thought to be rolling into the next century of Little International at SDSU.
As one of the largest events held at SDSU every year, it is no small feat to put on Little International. It takes a lot of talented students to make it happen. Their love for the agricultural industry, their desire to be a part of a longstanding tradition and their individual talents come together to make Little International an amazing event and a great memory for every student involved.
It is great to see that as we move into the next 100 years of Little International at SDSU, there is no slowing down. Every year, the
event continues to grow, and the support never seems to waver. Not only is this event filled with dedicated students, but it is also surrounded by dedicated alumni, which is what allows the event to continue growing and improving every year.
Thank you for coming to the 101st Little International, and good luck to all the staff putting on another great event as well as all the exhibitors and contestants competing in the contests and shows. Your hard work and dedication to the event and agricultural industry doesn’t go unnoticed. Have a great time at the 101st Little International!
Cody Gifford
Welcome to South Dakota State University Little International! Little “I” is the largest student-run, two-day livestock exposition in the United States. Little “I” has a storied history in the hearts and minds of many by creating memories for thousands of alumni, faculty, friends and students.
This year, we embark on the 101st Little International event, where we welcome students and alumni to celebrate agriculture. As agriculture holds a special place in the history of South Dakota and South Dakota State University, we will continue on with the traditions on our famous green wood chips and raising the iconic red barn.
This is a time to celebrate who we are and where we come from. Congratulations to those involved in planning this event; it is evident how much work you put into this. Once again, to all who have joined us, welcome and enjoy your time on campus.
Sincerely,
Mark Sandager ’11, Development Director CAFES, SDSU Foundation, South Dakota State University Alumni Association
1921 L.C. Lippert; Sheridan, WY
1929 Arthur Cole; Salem OR
1930 Edwin Hanson; Hawarden, IA
1931 P. Ode Hegg; Sioux Falls, SD
1932 Clarence Stockland; Lincoln, NE
1933 Cliff Jenson, Killed in Action
1934 Wilbur Bryant; Canton, SD
1935 Leslie Johnson; Liberal, KS
1936 Lawrence DeHaan; Brookings, SD
1937 Duane Clark; Worthing, SD
1938 Ted Larson; Salem, OR
1939 Henry Lardy; Madison, WI
1940 Elmer Sanderson; Brookings, SD
1941 Al Face; Yuma, AZ
1942 Verlon Welch; St. Paul, MN
1943 Carl Ham; Rapid City, SD
1946 Donald Biggar; Brookings, SD
1947 J.W. McCarty; Brookings, SD
1948 Vince Kenneally; Raymond, SD
1949 Dwayne Kettering; Brentford, SD
1950 Herb Lippert; Timber Lake, SD
1951 Ray Weick; Yuma, AZ
1952 Mick Crandall; Selby, SD
1953 Gene Wheeler; Raymond, SD
1954 Keith Manfull; Gettysburg, SD
1955 George Cook; Clear Lake, SD
1956 Robert Duxburry; Wessington, SD
1957 Don Briedenbach; Newell, SD
1958 Merlin Van Walleghen; Letcher, SD
1959 Richard Peterson; Fedora, SD
1960 Marvin Olson; Madison, SD
1961 Tom Hansen; Brookings, SD
1962 Jim Anderson; Clear Lake, SD
1963 Gary TeStroete; Brookings, SD
1964 Marshall Nygard; Fairview, SD
1965 Steve Witt; Butler, SD
1966 Roger Tilberg; Ethan, SD
1967 Larry Nelson; White Lake, SD
1968 Haven Stuck; Brentford, SD
1969 Jim Danekas; Raymond, SD
1970 Denton Haber; Redfield, SD
1971 Tom Varilek; Geddes, SD
1972 Wayne Williamson; Aberdeen, SD
1973 Neal Person; Lake City, SD
1974 Tom Scott; Ashton, SD
1975 William Delaney; Lake Benton, MN
1976 Robert Noble; Riceville, IA
1977 Rocky Blare; Hammill, SD
1978 Randy Wirt; Parker, SD
1979 Randy Blare; Hammill, SD
1980 Monte Mason; Frankfort, SD
1981 Jeff Davis; Forestburg, SD
1982 Bruce Paterson; Lake Preston, SD
1983 Jeff Gruntmeir; Iroquois, SD
1984 Bruce Bot; Minneota, MN
1985 Brad Hennen; Minneota, MN
1986 Lyndon Hohwieler; Chester, SD
1987 Shannon Rausch; Hoven, SD
1988 Dorn Severtson; Canby, MN
1989 Tom Larson; Jackson, MN
1990 Dave Uttechet; Woonsocket, SD
1991 Guy Rusche; Bancroft, SD
1992 Ann Gunderson; Lake Park, IA
1993 Bryce Healy; Pukwana, SD
1994 Daniel Kohls; Litchfield, MN
1995 Brian Sharp; Bath, SD
1996 Michael Willard; Colton, SD
1997 Joel DeRouchey; Pukwana, SD
1998 David Grinde; Colton, SD
1999 Mark Johnson; Pipestone, MN
2000 Lora Kohls; Litchfield, MN
2001 Matt Gunderson; Mission Hill, SD
2002 Adam Wirt; Parker, SD
2003 Travis Hoffman; Rockham, SD
2004 Clint Gehrke; Luverne, MN
2005 Brian Fruechte; Pipestone, MN
2006 Crystal Mohrhauser; Hartford, SD
2007 Dustin Mohrhauser; Hartford, SD
2008 Crissa Zenk; Webster, SD
2009 Jared Sanderson; Lake Preston, SD
2010 Alissa Johnson; Luverne, MN
2011 Lee Sanderson; Lake Preston, SD
2012 Colton Buus; Lennox, SD
2013 Kalen Manthei; Sanborn, MN
2014 David Buseman; Canistota, SD
2015 John Weber; St. Paul, MN
2016 Adam Krause; Clear Lake, SD
2017 Dalen Zuidema; Blomkest, MN
2018 Kendrah Schafer; Goodhue, MN
2019 Tristin Fliehe; Tulare, SD
2020 Collin Vander Wal; Volga, SD
2021 Jacob Rausch; Hoven, SD
2022 Grady Gullickson; Flandreau, SD
2023 Cody Gifford; Tyler, MN
2024 Isaac Berg; Pipestone, MN
Little International would like to thank our faculty advisors for their time and guidance!
Rosie Nold is a Professor and Assistant Department Head of the Department of Animal Science at South Dakota State University. She received her bachelor’s degree in animal science from SDSU in 1988, then went on to receive her master’s in animal science with an emphasis in meat science from Kansas State University. After working as a county Extension educator for a few years, Nold returned to SDSU to obtain her Ph.D. in Animal Science with a meat science emphasis in 1997.
Little International has always been a big part of Dr. Nold’s life at SDSU. As an undergraduate student, she served on staff and was the Little “I” Secretary. Furthermore, nearly every Animal Science student has had Dr. Nold as their professor, as she currently teaches Introduction to Animal Science, Livestock Evaluation and Marketing, as well as assisting with many other undergraduate projects and activities. Currently, she resides on an acreage raising purebred Southdown sheep with her husband, Jerry. They have three daughters together: Mary, Emily and Josie.
Bob Thaler is a Distinguished Professor and Extension Swine Specialist in the Department of Animal Science at South Dakota State University. He received his bachelor’s degree in animal science in 1982 and a master’s degree in animal science and swine nutrition in 1984, both from SDSU. He then got his Ph.D. in swine nutrition from Kansas State University in 1988. In November of 1988, Thaler returned to SDSU as an Extension Swine Specialist, and in the last 35 years has taught a variety of classes and done production-focused research.
While not participating in Little “I” when he was an undergraduate, Dr. Thaler was a strong advocate of Little “I” and the many ways it positively impacted so many young people, both high school and undergraduate students. Dr. Thaler and his wife Karen live on an acreage southwest of Brookings and have three children and eight grandchildren: Allyse & Mike Steffen, Sarah & Dustin Holt, and Noah and Erin Thaler.
In 2023, Dr. Thaler was awarded the CAFES Prexy Council Teacher of the Year for his role in supporting students. One attribute that sets him apart is his ability to recognize not all students learn the same and his compassion to do whatever it takes to help students be successful in the classroom.
Edward T. Blair shows genuine commitment and passion for the agricultural industry through his support of agricultural education programs, thus earning him the title of the 101st Little International Honored Agriculturalist.
“Ed is my grandfather, and growing up, I have spent countless hours by his side and have gotten to see how he has been a progressive leader in the beef industry, from sitting in the tractor with him and always being there to hear a story about cattle, the land, and about how it used to be,” said Teigen Hadrick, 101st Little International Assistant Manager. “Ed has worked hard to implement groundbreaking programs into the cattle operation and has turned it into what is known today as Blair Brothers Angus. I choose Ed not only for being a great grandfather deserving of every award but also because he has offered numerous pieces of advice and lent an ear to listen to people far and wide and has become a well-respected man because of this. I am honored to be able to give this award to my grandfather and be by his side for this accomplishment.”
Blair has continued a strong tradition of livestock production in western South Dakota. He has spent most of his life raising cattle and alfalfa with his brother, Rich Blair, son Chad Blair and nephew Britton Blair. For the past 40 years, they have owned and managed the Blair Brothers Angus ranch in Vale, South Dakota. In 2020, their operation won the South Dakota Leopold Conservation award.
Blair has worked hard to produce quality genetics in his livestock, primarily through artificial insemination of highly proven bulls. As a result of his extensive AI program, the Blair Brothers Angus ranch has become a well-respected commercial bull enterprise across South Dakota.
Aside from the operation, Blair has a desire to give back in a variety of ways. One way he chose to give back was when he helped financially support the South Dakota State University Animal Science programs and activities by donating to the Cow-Calf Education and Research Facility. Over the years, the Blair Brothers Angus ranch has worked with SDSU to
do extensive research projects on several synchronization projects with cattle, including feeding MGA to cattle and Lutalyse protocols—feedlot run-off projects and running it through a vegetative treatment area. Calf value discovery programs and multiple grasslands research projects have been done by utilizing satellites to see grazing patterns.
“Ironically, I went to college and took animal science, and I didn’t like it because I wasn’t ever going to be a researcher,” said Blair. “After I got out of school, it didn’t take me long to realize that someone was always trying to sell you something, and if you don’t have anyone to research things, then you don’t know if it’s any good or not. I had seen what research could do for me and my operation, so I became a big supporter of it.”
Blair is dedicated to impacting other aspects of the agricultural industry by being active at the local, state and national level through many different organizations. For Meade County, he served as a 4-H Leader for 25 years and county Extension board member for five years, served as the director and past president of the Western Junior Livestock Show, held local, state, and national positions for South Dakota Farm Bureau through his 49 years of being a member of the organization, was a member of the South Dakota Beef Industry Council for 18 years, is a member of the Federation of State Beef Councils, served on the South Dakota Cattlemen’s board for six years, served on the Meat Export Federation Board, serves on the Bear Butte Water Board, and is a founding member of the South Dakota Ag Land Trust.
“From being a student to going out into the industry, I am honored to receive this award because Little International is teaching people, young and old, the value of agriculture,” said Blair.
Written by Beth Holst
2024 Edward T. Blair, Vale
2023 Rod Geppert, Kimball
2022 Don Marshall, Brookings
2021 Kevin Vander Wal, Volga
2020 Donna Moenning, Hayfield, MN
2019 David Stenberg, Colman
2018 Leon Wrage, Brookings
2017 Mike and Betty Brink, Redfield
2016 Gary Haiwick, Highmore
2015 Dr. Kelly Bruns, North Platte, NE
2014 Gilbert and Rosemar Mohrhauser Family, Hartford
2013 Steve and Arloine Goodfellow, Bruce
2012 Duane and Colleen Blare Family, Winner
2011 Dr. Lowell Slyter, Brookings
2010 Fred and Joan DeRouchey Family, Mitchell
2009 Sharon Odegaard Family, Lake Preston
2008 Edward and Gina VanderWal family, Volga
2007 Leonard and Violet Wulf, Morris, MN
2006 Dr. Roger Hunsley, Omaha, NE
2005 Darrell Anderson, Sherburn, MN
2004 John and Delina Nagel, Avon
2003 Denny Everson, Yankton
2002 Dr. Fred Cholik, Brookings
2001 Jim Woster, Sioux Falls
2000 Dr. Dan Gee, Brookings
1999 Dr. William Costello, Brookings
1998 W.C. McCone, Redfield
1997 Chester Gullikson, Bath
1996 Walter Schaefer, Sioux Falls
1995 Howard Hillman, Canova
1994 Darwin G. Britzman, Sioux Falls
1993 Robert Duxbury, Wessington
1992 Vern Fritz, Sioux Falls
1991 Leonard Fawcett, Ree Heights
1990 Walter Bones, Parker
Mrs. Barbara Law, Yankton
1989 Gordon Brockmueller, Freeman
1988 Russell Wirt, Parker
Mrs. Eleanor Krokosh, Ipswich
1987 Mark Keffeler, Sturgis
Mrs. Lucille Ronke, Watertown
1986 John W. Curry, Elk Point
Mrs. Margie Esmay, Murdo
1985 Martin Jorgensen, Winner
Mrs. Gene Christie, Brookings
1984 Carl Ham, Pennington County
Mrs. Ethel Christiansen, Yankton
1983 Forrest (Shorty) Ireland, Belvidere
Mrs. Kay Snyder, Piedmont
1982 Bernard Beastrom, Pierre
Mrs. Emily Jennings, Spearfish
1981 Gordon Quinn, Timber Lake
Mrs. Chrys Daniel, Wentworth
1980 Pat Gant, Geddes
Mrs. Florine Glaus, Chamberlain
1979 Ervin Dobberstein, Baltic
Mrs. Mildred Acheson, Chester
1978 Warren Wright, Brandon
Mrs. Grace Sanderson, Aurora
1977 Wendell Leafstedt, Alcester
Mrs. Dorothy Littau, Winner
1976 John Glaus, Chamberlain
Mrs. Anna Mae Tesch, Watertown
1975 Dr. H.M. Briggs, Brookings
Mrs. Alvida Sorenson, Brookings
1974 Clarence Hillman, Canova
Mrs. Alyce Kettering, Mellette
1973 Rodney Larson, Fruitdale
Mrs. Clarence Levins, Brandt
1972 Walter Taylor, Pennington County
Mrs. Martin Muchow, Sioux Falls
1971 Don Jorgensen, Ideal
Mrs. William Kirsch, White River
1970 L.L. Zeller, Vermillion
Mrs. Laurence Stuck, Mellette
1969 Clark J. Lamport, Britton
Mrs. Lillian Tornberg, Beresford
1968 Leonard Dailey, Jefferson
Mrs. Lillian Dahl, Clear Lake
1967 John Gauger, Clear Lake
Mrs. Edith May Garrett, Pierre
1966 Harry Blair, Sturgis
Mrs. Robert Knickrehm, Verdon
1965 Pete Ginsbach, Dell Rapids
Mrs. Warren Wright, Brandon
1964 Allen Sperry, Bath
Mrs. Joe Biever, Oelrichs
1963 Harry Gustafson, Brandt
Mrs. Marvin Twombley, Vale
1962 Jay Welch, Mitchell
Mrs. Howard Hansen, Pierre
1961 Walter Feind, Hazel
Mrs. Adolf Larson, Bath
1960 Hugh Faulkner, Faulkton
Mrs. Charles Newcomb, Rowena
1959 Nick Fox, Watertown
Mrs. Orville Blocker, Webster
1958 Justin Mortvedt, Dell Rapids
Mrs. Charles Reid, Nisland
1957 Fred G. Hoscher, Faulkton
Mrs. Alvin Kausuke, Milbank
1956 Ted Larson, Pierre
Mrs. Percy Copeland, Kennebec
1955 Emil Rezac, Tabor
Mrs. Earl Lambert, Fedora
1954 Art Thelin, Sioux Falls
Mrs. R.H. Gardner, Madison
1953 Jim Magness, Miller
Mrs. Cyrus Heifner, Rosholt
1952 A.B. Taylor, Pierre
Mrs. Louisa Sale, Montrose
1951 Ernest Ham, Piedmont
Mrs. Bernice Smiley, Mt. Vernon
1950 Sam Bober, Newell
Mrs. George Becker, Onida
1949 Wilbur Bryant, Canton
1948 Enos Blair, Sturgis
Mrs. Lorenz Lippert, Crow Agency, MT
1947 Henry N. Dyvig, Humboldt
1946 John Hartman, Humboldt
1945 No show -World War II
1944 No show -World War II
1943 C.B. Newcomb, Madison
1942 Thad Oviatt, Huron
1941 Albert Hill, Alexandria
1940 Charles S. Blackman, Watertown
1939 H.G. Skinner (In memory of), Brookings
Show day prep for beef cattle usually starts with an early morning wash, blow dry, and fitting for the calf. Exhibitors use sprays and oils to give the calf’s hair as much volume as possible. Exhibitors show beef cattle in two different divisions: bulls and heifers. Exhibitors are given roughly a month to prepare their animals for the show. Many hours of preparation go into the beef project before Little “I”. Breaking the animal to lead, washing, and clipping are all things the exhibitors will accomplish before they walk into the ring. Hard work and dedication are evident as many spend hours getting an animal ready to be shown. Exibitors will have the opportunity to prepare and show their animal the day of the big event. After showing, the work wraps up after each exhibitor washes their animal to ensure all show products are cleaned out of the hair.
The Little International Livestock Fitting Contest was designed to allow SDSU undergraduate students the opportunity to work as a team and make their provided animal look show-ready! This year, eight yearling heifers from the SDSU Cow-Calf Education & Research Facility will be provided to fitting teams. Teams comprising two to three experienced fitters and one novice fitter will be responsible for working as a team to get their animals broken, clipped, and hair adequately prepared.
Showing dairy requires the exhibitor to lead the animal on a halter around the arena at a proper and slow pace to allow the judge to see all of the animal’s virtues. The exhibitor is always to keep an eye on the animal, and has to be ready to set the animal up within a moment’s notice. Exhibitors want to hold the head up, keep the back as straight as possible, and move at a distance where the animal’s rear foot lands on top of where the front foot previously was. Before the show, exhibitors are responsible for halter-breaking their animals, which can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. Once the animal is comfortable walking with a halter, exhibitors get into the minor and critical movements, such as foot placement and responding to the judge’s position in the ring. The exhibitor must also wash and remove any dirt from the animal’s coat prior to clipping the animal. Dairy is the opposite of beef, with shorter, clipped hair being optimal to portray the animal’s sharpness and angularity. Clipping the topline can be one of the more difficult tasks as it is a critical detail to maintain a straight back while standing still and on the move. Before the show, exhibitors will set their animal’s topline by applying adhesives to the hair across the back to
keep them standing up. They also will fluff and make the tail hair puff outward. Many exhibitors will take a baby wipe and clean the inside of their animal’s ears for showmanship and spray a shine across the animal’s sides to make her look sleek. After the show, exhibitors must wash the animal to remove any shine or adhesive applied.
The goat exhibitors have been working hard over the past two weeks getting their goats ready for the Little “I”. The exhibitors have spent the last two weeks teaching goats to walk with a chain and to brace to prepare for the showmanship competition. This can be a challenge, so exhibitors work to find the best routine for them and the goat. In the fitting contest, the exhibitors need to clip the body and train the leg hair to be fitted. Before doing so, they must wash the goats and blow them dry using a blower to ensure the hair is clean. After the contest, the exhibitors must wash out any adhesives and oils used in preparation for the show.
The horses are shown “in hand” or led around the arena for the fitting and showmanship classes. The fitting class is judged based on how well-groomed the horse is. Criteria include cleanliness and clipping. The showmanship class is judged on how well the competitor can maneuver the horse through a pattern and grooming and how the horse and handler exhibit themselves. Before the show, the competitor has three weeks to work with their horse and improve on maneuvers, such as walking or trotting when signaled, backing straight, and pivoting. They are also responsible for grooming, clipping, and bathing their horses. The contestants work and exercise their horses, clean their horses’ stalls, ensure their horses have water when they are kept inside, and do daily grooming, clipping, bathing, and general lastminute touch-ups before walking into the show ring.
The Lamb Lead event includes a personal interview, garment and blanket construction, sheep fitting, and showmanship. General appearance and poise are taken into account during each portion of judging. Before the show, competitors are responsible for working with the animal and washing and fitting. They also must select or construct a garment and blanket for the lamb lead competition, Lamb Lead participants are responsible for writing a narrative that will be read during the evening of lamb lead.
During the last two weeks, the sheep contestants have been hard at work preparing their ewes for the Little “I” show. There are two sections of the sheep contest - fitting and showmanship. Exhibitors must fit their ewe with only hand clippers during the fitting contest. They must “block” their ewe’s wool and make her look smooth and refined. “Blocking” is squaring the wool and providing a flat-level top for the animal. A good-fit job usually takes several weeks to complete. The second portion of the contest is showmanship. Contestants only have two weeks to halter break ewes and make them show-ready. During showmanship, exhibitors must make sure the ewe is squared with her legs and feet spaced appropriately without a halter. The SDSU Sheep Unit provides some of the ewes. The ewes shown at Little “I” are bred and will lamb later this spring. It is important that these ewes are kept in a low-stress environment; therefore, exhibitors are only in charge of halter breaking and fitting their lamb. The sheep unit’s manager and employees feed, water, and bed down the ewes and monitor their health.
Swine exhibitors have been working hard for the last two weeks to train the hogs they drew this year. The hogs are shown individually in two categories: novice and experienced. Exhibitors drive their hogs around the arena using hand-held tools like a show stick or cane. This gives the judge an adequate look at every angle of the animal. Although there is no minimum requirement of time that needs to be spent with the hogs, exhibitors are required to work with them at least one time prior to Little “I”. Hogs are not shown by holding onto the animal with a halter, so exhibitors must work diligently to train their animal to react to direction from the show stick. Control and direction of the hog from the showman will impact the animal’s performance and the judge’s perception. The exhibitor’s goal during this show is to present the animal to the judge to the best of their ability. Though no “fitting” is required for hogs compared to other species, the swine exhibitors use various products to make their hog’s body shine and attract the judge while in the ring, in addition to clipping and washing.
Collegiate contestants in Ag Product Sales will be provided an example product and information along with the customer profiles to prepare for the contest. Contestants will then develop a product brochure and presentation that will be evaluated by judges in addition to their answers to questions based on their product knowledge.
The Ag Mechanics competition consists of teams of four students competing in both group and individual tests. The students individually take a written test, complete a welding trial, wire an electrical circuit, and diagnose a machine when given symptoms and questions. The group activity will consist of all team members working together to solve a problem given by the instructor. The scoring for the competition will be based on results from both the individual assessments and the group activity.
In the Agronomy contest, participants will identify grains, forages and weeds by seed or plant parts. They also must evaluate the quality of grain seeds. There is an agronomy knowledge exam that focuses on the basic principles of crop production, management practices, and plant biology. This contest will count towards the High Point Club Award.
The Dairy Cattle Judging Contest at Little “I” is a competitive event for high school and collegiate students that focuses on evaluating and managing dairy cattle. This contest allows students interested in the dairy industry to gain practical experience in the visual appraisal of dairy cattle and evaluation and management decision-making based on pedigree information and sire information.
This is a high-point competition that is only for collegiate participation. Dairy product teams participate in manufacturing a signature flavor of ice cream. The Davis Dairy Plant provides a white ice cream mix. Teams must provide their own flavorings and additional ingredients and follow plant guidelines for food safety. This contest will count towards the High Point Club Award.
The Farm Business Management contest helps students learn business skills and apply economic principles to agricultural businesses. Participants demonstrate their ability to analyze agricultural business management information, apply economic principles and concepts of business management, and evaluate business management decisions with a written exam.
The Floriculture event includes a 50-question general knowledge exam, a floral arrangement and cost estimate and a plant identification test. The contest is open to FFA/4H members and any collegiate members who want to participate.
The Little “I” Horse Judging contest consists of three placing classes, two sets of questions and a 25-question multiple choice exam worth 50 points. The Horse Judging contest is designed to test a contestant’s ability to judge all categories of horses, to test a contestant’s general horse knowledge and to remember details about the horses in a class to answer a set of questions following the specified class correctly. This contest will count towards the High Point Club Award.
The Livestock Judging contest will consist of visually judging beef, sheep, swine and goats classes. The judging contest will challenge contestant’s abilities to compare, rank, and analyze the livestock. Questions regarding the animals will also challenge contestants to remember details about the species presented. The SDSU Livestock Judging Team provides each class’s official placing and cuts.
The Machinery Sales competition allows students to step into the role of a machinery sales professional. The contest is split in three divisions: large tractor, skid loader class, and farm vehicle sales. Each division requires executing salesmanship, knowledge of the machinery and basic principles of operation. In addition, ability as a salesman to project confidence and competent salesmanship will be scored. The machinery will be provided for each contestant in the SDSU Raven Precision Ag building.
Students participating in this hour-and-a-half-long contest work through six different placing classes with 20 questions related to different meat objectives. Contestants will also identify 20 different retail cuts. The meat judging contest is open to both 4-H/FFA members and collegiate participants.
This team contest challenges club teams to create a unique, great-tasting burger. Three pounds of ground beef provided by the SDSU Meat Lab and four plain white hamburger buns will be given to each team. The team must supply all extra
ingredients, buns, or condiments. Teams compete in the “Burger Battle” on Wednesday, March 30th, where burgers are created, cooked, and judged. Burger presentation, recipe name and description are included for final judging. A panel of judges will review and taste each team’s final product.
In the Milk Quality & Products competition, contestants classify defects in milk, identify different cheese varieties and evaluate dairy product samples for fat content. In addition, competitors take a two-part exam on dairy production and marketing. This contest will count towards the High Point Club Award.
The Natural Resources contest consists of a multiple-choice exam, a problem-solving activity and identification of specimens from six different categories: insects, waterfowl and upland game birds, other birds, mammals, fish, hardwood trees and shrubs and softwood trees and shrubs. The goal of the contest is to foster student interest and promote environmental awareness.
The Nursery Landscape event tests student’s skills in maintaining landscape plants and related products. The contest consists of four parts: identification of plants, identification of equipment, an analysis of a landscape drawing, and a general knowledge exam. This contest will count towards the High Point Club Award.
In the Poultry Judging contest, students will evaluate and grade ready-to-cook carcasses, parts of chickens and turkeys, eggs, and further processed poultry products. They identify poultry parts and complete a written poultry production and management exam.
The Little “I” Range Plant Identification contest is designed to test high school and collegiate students’ identification skills of over 100 grasses, shrubs, and trees found in U.S. prairie ecosystems. This contest asks students to remember various characteristics of the plants, such as life span, growth season, origin, habitat use, and palatability for various animal species. This contest aims to strengthen the understanding of prairie ecosystems and learn of the various plant species that cohabit U.S. prairies.
The Seed and Forage Crop Show allows individuals to bring crop seeds and forages to be judged. Judges will evaluate the characteristics and quality of the samples and place them accordingly.
The Little International Soils contest is a new contest this year. The soil contest will include a written multiple-choice test and a hands-on soil judging portion. The test will have 40 questions, with each question being worth 5 points each. The hands-on portion will consist of four different soils, where students will identify the texture and color of the top and subsoil. They will then place the soil in the best-fit class; the options are coarse (which is a sand-like texture), moderately coarse, medium, moderately fine, and fine this being the thicker clay-like soil).
The Little “I” Vet Science competition consists of an identification portion, a written exam and a math practicum. The identification portion tests FFA members’ knowledge of animal breeds, parasites, and equipment. Topics in the exam may include diseases, medical terminology, anatomy, nutrition, genetics and more. This contest will count towards the High Point Club Award.
High Point Freshman: Carter Howell High Point Upperclassman: Emily Nold
Grand Champion Round Robin: Makayla Nelson
Reserve Champion Round Robin: Emily Nold High Point Club: Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity
During the Wool Judging contest, collegiate contestants rank 2-4 classes of 4 fleeces based on fineness, length and yield. Contestants will have a grading rail of 6 fleeces where they must determine the grade of fineness, length, yield and purity of each fleece.
The Little International Welding Competition allows SDSU Students to show off their creative welding skills by building useful metal structures. While themes and specifications vary, competitors will utilize scrap metal this year to build a decoration or useful piece designed for outdoor yard use. Projects will be judged by industry professionals and the public, with the top 3 getting sold in the Little “I” Auction.
The High Point Club Award is in its tenth year. It is a competition for organizations in the College of Agriculture, Food, and Environmental Sciences at South Dakota State University. Clubs will arrange teams to compete in Little “I” contests and gain points toward the High Point Club title. This year’s High Point Club contests include Club Booth, Club Basket, Meat Products, Dairy Products, Lamb Lead, Meats Judging, Soils Judging, Wool Judging, Horse Judging, Milk Quality & Products and Agronomy.
Little International would like to thank the SDSU Cow-Calf Education and Research Facility manager, Kevin Vander Wal, for all of his help and support!
Lance Becking grew up and now resides in Florence, South Dakota, on a family-owned crop and cow/calf operation called Becking Farms. During his younger years, Lance grew a passion for working with cattle and youth in the show industry. He was the driving force behind the show barn at Becking Farms. Due to his knowledge and passion for the industry, Lance helped Halley and her sister be successful at shows on many levels. He now manages the Becking Farms cow herd with the help of the entire Becking family. Lance and his wife, Kelsey, are working diligently to build a herd of purebred shorthorn females for their daughter, Makaya. Lance and his family continue to foster their passion for the show industry by helping many junior showmen whenever they can with beef cattle projects.
South Dakota State University alumna Halley Becking resides in Watertown, South Dakota, and currently is an instructor at Lake Area Technical College. During her time at SDSU, she obtained a degree in animal science and participated on the Wool Judging team, Meat Judging team, and the Livestock Judging team. Like Lance, Halley continues to work with youth in the agricultural industry by teaching animal science and agricultural business classes.
Free Bird
Ivan Blume
TJ Harris
Brett Roberts
Zachary Schoelerman
The Amateurs
Kasey Krogh
Braden West
Jacob Chapman
Edwin Pluimer
Fit To Win
Annie Reinke
Bryn Anderson
Brie Duerre
Aubie Hartman
The Jackrabbits
Bradyn Lachenmeier
Tate Bergh
Emma Richardson
Kaden Nelson
Iowa
Katie Van Den Top
Braeden Erickson
Reid Huth
Kiley Martin
The Bad Boys
Ethan Rockwell
Dellana Muck
Luke Bjorklund
Jerson Kopka
Chicks on the Chips
Aurora Peters
Montana Wilson
Zola Olson
Emma Heine
Kellen’s Klippers
Alex Kellen
Ty Mogck
Hunter Miller
Trevor Mente
Little International would like to thank the SDSU Cow-Calf Education and Research Facility manager, Kevin Vander Wal, for all of his help and support!
South Dakota State University alum Scott Werning was raised on a Simmental and Angus seed stock operation outside Emery, South Dakota, and now resides there, where he and his family own the third-generation Werning Cattle Company. During his time at SDSU, Werning competed in Little “I” from 2002 to 2005, winning both fitting and showmanship in the cattle division. Werning has extensive experience judging livestock, having been a member of the 2005 SDSU Livestock Judging Team, and since then, he has judged in 28 states, including major shows such as the North American and National Western. Werning is thrilled to add SDSU Little “I” to the list of places he has judged and is excited to have a fun time and see the hard work this year’s participants put into the event.
Carson Loutsch | Remsen, IA
Lyndey Dean | Spearfish, SD
Rylee Nelson | Richland, MT
Maria Lee | Mequon, WI
Peyton Meyer | Alcester, SD
Samantha Kettner | Nicollet, MN
McKenna Henrich | Akron, IA
NaTasha Bruck | Grimes, IA
Brandon Gengler | Le Mars, IA
Madison Simon | Preston, MN
Izzy Jansen | Omaha, NE
Braylee Wolff | Westfield, WI
Paul Ernst | Omaha, NE
Morgan Thoele | Arlington, MN
Natalie Neumann | Buffalo, MN
Riley Doll | New Salem, ND
Paige Hanson | Ramona, SD
Annie Reinke | TX
Ivan Blume | Redfield, SD
Alaina Chute | Aitkin, MN
Kaci Bradshaw | Radcliffe, IA
Jenna Dougherty | Clearwater, MN
Kylee Bloomfield | Crestline, OH
Janae Olson | Chancellor, SD
Braeden Erickson | Willmar, MN
Ryann Grussing | Kimball, SD
Kady Vejraska | Omak, WA
Zola Olson | Montevideo, MN
Brady Braniff | Tekamah, NE
Joos | Hancock, MN
Little International would like to thank Resler Genetics, Olsen’s and Peterson Durocs for supplying the pigs for the exibitors to show!
South Dakota State University alumnus Nolan Hohenstein currently resides in Lakefield, Minnesota, with his fiancé Remi Wayne and their three dogs. During Hohenstein’s time in college, he participated on the SDSU Livestock Judging team, where they placed fifth overall high team honors at the North American International Livestock Exposition in Louisville, Kentucky. Hohenstein now works at New Vision CO-OP in Worthington, Minnesota, where he consults with show families as a feed specialist and helps find pigs for many families. He enjoys judging swine shows across the Midwest and enjoys helping other Minnesota youth with their swine projects and showmanship.
Jayce Dornbusch | Harrisburg, SD
Will Allis | Blue Earth, MN
Kourtney Schaff | Saint Anthony, ND
Chiara Thompson | Forest City, IA
Kendall Olawasky | Corsica, SD
Matt Wiebe | Windom, MN
Montana Wilson | Milford, IA
Allison Wallace | Harris, IA
Gabby Fjerstad | Byron, MN
Brielle Ruen | Lanesboro, MN
Reese McKenna | Belle Fourche, SD
TJ Harris | Plankinton, SD
Collin Teunissen
Jesade Siverson | Hendricks, MN
Alyssa Schumacher | Kennard, NE
Aurora Peters | IA
Derek Kluis | Minnestoa
Aubie Hartman | Akron, IA
Danika Gordon | Sturgis, SD
Rachel Teunissen | Alvord, IA
Lilly Langer | Ellsworth, WI
Tayler Franz | Bingham Lake, MN
Lindsey Schmoll | Wausau, MN
Mariah Schroht | Owatonna, MN
Elle Ploeger | Pierson, IA
Hadley Stiefvater | Salem, SD
Katie Van Den Top | Hull, IA
Emmett Bickett | Worthington, MN
Breea Utendorfer | Green Isle, MN
Trevor Ruen | Lanesboro, MN
Payton Sailor | Conger, MN
Lacey Mockler | Beresford, SD
Korbin Leddy | Stockholm, SD
Dellana Muck | Caledonia, IL
Payten Benda | Jackson, MN
Shannon Soost | Nicollet, MN
Aubrey Kerkaert | Pipestone, MN
Lauren Ballard | Waiteville. WV
Tanner Mathiowetz | Morgan, MN
Blazden Mueller | Big Lake, MN
During the 2023 Ag Day, Lora Berg was announced as the first recipient of the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences Club Advisor of the Year award. This award was added to the 2023 slate of awards to showcase the hard work and dedication that club advisors put in outside of work hours to support and enhance student activities. A committee of CAFES students evaluated all nominations based on advisor responsibilities, passion for the organization, impact on students, and more.
Berg recently served as the director of marketing and communications for CAFES and the South Dakota Ag Experiment station at SDSU. During the 2022 to 2023 academic year, she was the advisor of Sigma Alpha and Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow and the coadvisor of Little International.
“The word advisor, by definition, is a person who advises in a particular field,” said Tessa Erdmann, junior agricultural communications student and 2023 Sigma Alpha Sorority President. “Lora does that, and so much more - it is time to recognize the person who does it all for so many.”
Berg is from Hurley, South Dakota, and obtained her bachelor’s degree in agricultural journalism with a minor in animal science from SDSU. During her time at SDSU, Berg loved to be involved by being active in Little “I”, ACT, Alpha Zeta, and Block and Bridle. Through Little “I,” Berg served on the publicity committee and was a student photographer. After obtaining her bachelor’s degree, Berg attended graduate school and received her master’s in science in journalism and mass communications.
Berg returned to SDSU to fulfill her current role in 2015, and knew she wanted to get active in student clubs and
organizations once again. Berg understands the importance of networking within clubs as a way for students to meet their peers and works tirelessly to ensure that clubs and membership retention stay alive.
Upon her arrival at SDSU, she quickly learned that SDSU’s ACT chapter had dissolved. She played a crucial role in helping students re-establish the club. In the fall of 2022, the SDSU ACT chapter hosted the National ACT Professional Development Conference for the first time on the Brookings campus. Berg played a huge role in making this event such a success.
“Not only does she strive to help each club find success, but she strives to help individual students find success whether they are in a group she advises or not,” says Kristen Smith, sophomore agricultural communications student and 2022 to 2023 ACT Club President. “Her enthusiastic energy can lighten up a room, and I think that support speaks volumes about her character.”
Later in 2017, she volunteered to advise Little “I” and the Sigma Alpha Sorority. Little “I” is a tradition for Berg as her family has played a key part in making many Little “I” events a success. From serving on the publicity and student photographer committee when she attended school to meeting her husband, Dan Berg, during the Lamb Lead competition. The traditions, and what the event stands for are what encouraged her to continue helping make a difference.
“Receiving the first CAFES Club Advisor of the Year award is both extremely awesome and very humbling,” said Berg. It has been a true privilege to be an advisor for the Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow, Sigma Alpha and Little International. I believe very strongly in the success of our CAFES students and the leadership, networking, and new experiences that can be gained by participating in CAFES clubs and organizations.”
Written by Kristen Smith
Little International would like to thank the Sheep Research and Teaching Unit manager, Blake Johnson, and the Fuller Sheep Farm for all their support and help!
South Dakota State University alumn, Travis Hoffman currently resides in Fargo, North Dakota, with his wife Meagen. Hoffman was raised on a registered Corriedale sheep, diversified commercial cattle and grain operation in South Dakota. Hoffman was also active in Little International throughout his time at SDSU, and served as the 80th Little International manager. He also enjoys judging youth livestock shows at all levels, and has judged in over 30 states. Currently Hoffman works for North Dakota State Univeristy and the Univeristy of Minnesota as the Extension Sheep Specalist and associate professor.
Zachary Schoelerman | Everly, IA
Beth Holst | Kellogg, MN
Emily Matejka | Sherburn, MN
Jaeda Pauel | Ismay, SD
Sydney Sheffield | Winterset, IA
Claire Ohlrichs | Merrill, IA
Emma Heine | Vermillion, SD
Gabby Fink | Plankinton, SD
Kyla Hubbling | Pipestone, MN
Kate Henkel | El Paso, IL
Brett Schiefelbein | MN
Novice
Robert Feiock | Sioux Falls, SD
Elias Kuehn | Plato, MN
Michael Garofalo | Aberdeen, SD
Madison Melcher | Page, NE
Kaylee Kroger | Inwood, IA
Sage Mortenson | Groton, SD
Brianna Moss | Woodstock, MN
Lexi Gloege | Bellingham, SD
Katherine Moening | Lakeville, MN
Gunvar Dombek lives with her husband, Randy, on a sheep farm near Ivanhoe, Minnesota. Together, she and Randy have four daughters, three of whom are SDSU alumni and nine grandchildren. Dombek has spent many years working in the fashion and design world, first in women’s retail clothing, then as a buyer for a decorating store, and then owned a design and home decor store until her retirement. Since retirement, she and her husband have been responsible for managing a flock of over 100 purebred Suffolks. Dombek also serves on the Minnesota State Suffolk Sheep Association board and is the junior show coordinator. Dombek is excited to be the judge of the 101st Little International Lamb Lead contest because of her love of all things wool and sheep!
Zachary Schoelerman | Everly, IA
Collegiate Cattleman’s Club
Brett Schiefelbein | Kimball, MN
Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity
Kate Henkel | El Paso, IL
Dairy Club
Robert Feiock | Sioux Falls, SD
Pre - Vet Club
Beth Holst | Kellogg, MN
Lamb & Wool Club
Elias Kuehn | Plato, MN
FarmHouse Fraternity
Michael Garofalo | Aberdeen, SD
Students’ Association
Madison Melcher | Page, NE
Ag Ed/FFA Alumni Club
Emma Heine | Vermillion, SD
Alpha Zeta
Lexi Gloege | Bellingham, MN
Sigma Alpha Sorority
Kaylee Kroger | Inwood, IA
Swine Club
Emily Matejka | Sherburn, MN Farm Bureau
Claire Ohlrichs | Merril, IA
Block & Bridle
Sydney Sheffield | Winterset, IA
Horse Club
Jaeda Paul | Ismay, SD
Little International would like to thank the Dairy Research and Training Facility manager, Peter Linke for all his support and help!
South Dakota State University alumni Kyle Tews was born and raised on his family’s thirdgeneration dairy farm near Hutchinson, Minnesota, where he is still active in helping with day-to-day operations. Growing up Tews was active in 4-H and FFA in his high school years where he competed on the dairy judging team through both organizations and showed his registered Ayrshire cattle at both the county and state level. Tews graduated from SDSU in 2019 where he obtained a degree in dairy production. During his time at SDSU he was active in the Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity, Dairy Club, the Intercollegiate Dairy Judging Team, and was on the Little International staff for three years. He is currently employed at Form-A-Feed in Stewart, Minnesota, as a production specialist.
Heather Fischer | Valley City, ND
Machenzie Steinbrecher | Yankton, SD
Greta Wooldrik | West Point, NE
Kayla Vander Schaaf | Chandler, MN
Kaitlyn Crowley | Decatur, IL
Brynn Bohlke | Mankato, MN
John Peterson | Piedmont, SD
Amelie Blakely | Sylvania, OH
Erin Jacobson | New Richland, MN
Kaylyn Marvan | Hutchinson, MN
Madeline Boie | Pine Island, MN
Makenzie Alberts | Pine Island, MN
Sophie Klehr | Henderson, MN
Bradyn Lachenmeier | Tappen, ND
Devin Zellmann | Norwood Young America, MN
Kalie Ritter | Avon, MN
Hayley Daubert | Dayton, VA
Olivia Bork | Valley Springs, SD
McKenna Wright | Hutchinson, MN
Maia Bartelt | New Richland, MN
Megan Van Den Hemel | Sioux Falls, SD
Curtis Nelson | Mission Hill, SD
Little International would like to thank Dakota Wind Meat Goats for supplying the goats for the exhibitors to show!
South Dakota State University alumni, Kip Littau, graduated from SDSU in 2015 with a bachelor’s degree in Nursing and currently works for Avera Queen of Peace Orthopedics and Urgent Care. Littau and his husband, Riley, currently own and operate LZ Livestock located in Letcher, South Dakota, where they raise registered Angus and SimAngus cattle in addition to registered Boer goats. Littau grew up on on his family’s cattle operation near Winner, South Dakota, which has been raising registered Angus cattle since the 1950s. The couple also operates alongside Zoss Cattle Company, focusing on breeding the next generation of foundation genetics for cattle and goat producers. They prioritize investing in the next generation of livestock producers and ag professionals and spend much of their time sponsoring cattle and goat events, mentoring young showmen with their projects, and volunteering with local 4-H clubs and FFA chapters.
Kalli Nelson | Owatonna, MN
Charli Sherman | Quasqueton, IA
Emily Gerber | Stewartville, MN
Emma Richardson | Capron, IL
Halle Lmker | Vesta, MN
Jerson Kopka | Bird Island, MN
Rhea Laib | Mercer, ND
Tessa Ellensohn | Le Mars, IA
Madisen Henley | Greeley, CO
Bryn Anderson | Jackson, MN
Jaylynn Frandrup | Hastings, MN
Briana Middendorf | Sauk Centre, MN
Danette Leenderts | Hills, MN
Elizabeth Hibma | Worthington, MN
Teryn Sparling | Northville, SD
Chevelle Spaulding | Whiting, IA
Avery Gregor | Jordan, MN
Alyssa Lansbach |Lakeville, MN
Emma Heiden | Rushford, MN
Marissa Clark | Anamosa, IA
Hannah Flogstad | Donnelly, MN
Elizabeth Ross | Milford, NE
Isabela Karels | Norwood Young America , MN
Matthew Ostebee | Harrisburg, SD
Cooper McCoy | Worthington, MN
The College of Agriculture, Food, and Environmental Sciences (CAFES) Prexy Council named Swine Club the 2023 Club of the Year. Each year, a committee organized by Prexy Council selects an organization that exceeds expectations in supporting its members, contributing to the community, and positively impacting the SDSU campus.
SDSU’s Swine Club was founded in 2009 with a mission to create an interactive learning environment for all students, regardless of their swine background, by allowing them to learn about different components within the swine industry. The club currently has over 60 dues-paying members.
“What I love about Swine Club is that members have so many different agricultural backgrounds,” says Karmen Sperr, agricultural communication and agricultural leadership student and 2023 to 2024 Swine Club President. “Some members have been around pigs their entire lives, and some have no experience with pigs, but we all have something in common: a passion for pigs.”
This past year, the Swine Club has had monthly meetings providing members with a free pork meal and the opportunity to hear from an industry representative to speak on different swinerelated topics.
The club has brought in prominent guest speakers, such as Dr. Brett Kaysen, the Senior Vice President of Producer and State Engagement for the National Pork Board.
Additionally, the club offers its members a variety of tour opportunities. This year, they have toured a new barn built in Volga, SD, and a feed mill and research barn for Christensen Farms in Sleepy Eye, MN.
The club is also dedicated to giving back through various community outreach programs. The club partners with the Brookings County Youth Mentorship Program each year to invite mentors and mentees to tour the SDSU Swine Unit, make crafts, and enjoy a meal. The club also participates in Ag Day in the Pavillion in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, where they educate youth about what goes into swine rations through an activity using basic ingredients that represent the nutrients that go into a swine diet.
Swine Club also participate in various activities through SDSU, such as Ag Week, Hobo Day with Paint the Town, and hosting Bum-A-Meal at the SDSU Swine Education and Research Facility, and of course, Little International!
“Receiving Club of the Year is such an honor for Swine Club because it shows the dedication we have to advocate for the industry and grow ourselves so we can be the best we can be for the next generation of pork production and agriculture,” says Sperr.
Written by Sydney Sheffield
Little International would like to thank the SDSU Equine Teaching Facility manager, Jen Eide for all her support and help!
Becky Molitor grew up in central Minnesota on a dairy, beef, and crop farm, where she was gifted her first pony at age five and from there on, horses became her everything. Growing up, she competed in a variety of shows, where she placed in various events. In 1982, Molitor became a 4-H leader at the county level. In 1989 she created R.J.’s Stables, which was a horse boarding business where she also offered horse riding lessons and training lessons to her boarders. In 1996, she became a Minnesota 4-H certified judge, and the Western Heritage category became her focus. She now serves as the state co-chair for the program and, in 2020, became a Western Heritage certified judge and instructor. Most recently, she became a Midwest Extreme Obstacle Association Judge in 2023.
Allison Nielsen | Kennard, NE
Tara Feucht | Brookings, SD
Trinity Back | Blair, NE
Mattew Becker | Worthington, MN
Elizabeth Will | Estelline, MN
Veronica Maus | Albany, MN
Grace Cheeseman | Chamerlain, SD
Jacey Jorgensen | Arco, MN
Ava Bouwman | Sioux Falls, SD
Front row (left to right): coach Tommy Norman, Dani Warner, Sarah Sergeant, Logan Schlim, Emma Richardson, and assistant coach Grace Olinger
Another celebratory year for the South Dakota State University Livestock Judging Team as they continue to build a strong legacy.
The team finished their season on November 13 at the North American International Livestock Exposition in Louisville, Kentucky, placing fifth overall as a team. Individually, Jennifer Hoelschler, from Eden, NY, placed 13th Individual Overall, which made her the highest individual placing for the SDSU team.
“Some of the goals that I set for myself were to push myself to be the best that I could be while continuing to grow my knowledge of judging,” Hoelschler says. “By challenging myself each and every day as well as the support and encouragement from my teammates, I began to achieve those goals.”.
The livestock judging contest includes evaluating classes of livestock species of cattle, sheep, goats and hogs, placing them in a ranked order against a standard that is commonly accepted as being ideal. Livestock judging ties the animal’s form and function together, and that is ultimately what is being evaluated by the team.
This year’s team included Hunter Miller, Estelline, SD; Sarah Sergeant, Lebo, Kansas; Logan Schlim, Carthage, SD; Emma Richardson, Capron, IL; Dani Warner, Worland, WY; Jennifer Hoelscher, Eden, NY; Kate Henkel, El Paso, IL; and Annie Reinke, Olney, TX.
The group practices under the leadership of coach Tommy Norman and graduate assistant coach Grace Olinger.
“We meet every Monday and Wednesday afternoon, whether we are giving sets of reasons or traveling to practice, and on the road most weekends,” Norman said.
Practices include evaluating livestock as well as practicing their oral reasons, which are an explanation to a judge of why they placed a class as they did. Their practices are not limited to indoor settings, as they frequently go to notable producers’ farms and ranches to practice on the four major species they focus on in livestock judging- cattle, sheep, goats and hogs.
Head Coach Tommy Norman gives nothing but high remarks from his perspective on the season.
“I am incredibly fortunate and thankful to have had the opportunity to work with the gifted students that just finished up their collegiate judging career, being named 5th High Team Overall at the North American in Louisville, KY,” said Norman. “We saw some major success throughout the duration of their time representing SDSU on the road, and there is nothing better than hearing positive feedback and compliments to this team from the alumni that support our program tremendously. As a first-year coach, I could not be more proud and hope to continue the success in the upcoming years!”
Written by Grace Sargent
North American International Livestock Exposition Team – 5th Place Overall
5th Place Reasons
5th Place All Performance Classses
5th Place Cattle Reasons
5th Place Cattle
3rd Place Performance Cattle
5th Place Sheep/Goat Reasons
5th Place Sheep/Goat
5th Place Hog Reasons
5th Place Hogs
Mid-American Stock Show
Team – High Team Overall
1st Place Hogs
2nd Place Sheep/Goats
3rd Place Cattle
3rd Place Reasons
Tulsa State Fair
Team – 5th Place Overall
2nd Place Hogs
4th Place Cattle
6th Place Reasons
World Beef Expo Team – 2nd Place Overall
AKSARBEN Stock Show
Team – 4th Place Overall
3rd Place Hogs
3rd Place Sheep/Goats
4th Place Cattle
3rd Place Reasons (tied)
National Barrow Show Team – 4th Place Overall
4th Place Reasons
Little “I” offers two $1,500 scholarships and two $1,000 scholarships each year to high school seniors passionate about agriculture who plan on attending South Dakota State University and hope to be involved in Little International. Four outstanding students were selected as winners of the 100th Little “I” scholarship in 2023.
Holst is a freshman studying animal science with a production management specialization, and is planning to obtain a certificate in agricultural law. On campus, she is involved in the Dairy Club and Wool Judging.
Holst grew up on her family’s dairy cattle, beef cattle, and crop operation in Kellogg, Minnesota, where she was actively involved in 4-H and FFA. Throughout her time in both organizations she served as the vice president of her 4-H club, competed in dairy judging and was the Wabasha County Dairy Princess. Through 4-H, she showed dairy cattle, dairy goats, and market lambs and competed in dairy quiz bowls.
She works with her sister, Ashley Holst, in buying and raising livestock. They own a small herd of dairy and meat goats along with registered Brown Swiss and Holsteins that they compete with at county, state, and open shows.
Holst serves as an assistant superintendent on the 101st Little “I” catalog committee, where she helped write articles for the catalog.
Her favorite part about Little “I” is how they saw an amazing opportunity and decided that SDSU could benefit from it. “Not only does it give the chance to experience something new, but it has had such an impact that when people hear SDSU, they think of Little “I”,” said Holst.
Mason Grams
Grams is a freshman studying animal science on the pre-veterinary track. On campus, Grams is involved in the Swine Club, Dairy Club, Pre-Vet Club and Ag Ed/FFA Alumni Club.
Grams is from Buffalo Lake, Minnesota, and grew up in the swine and dairy industry. He enjoyed spending his time traveling the state, competing at county and state shows with his livestock. He currently enjoys working as a clinic assistant at Animal Health Services in Atwater, Minnesota and serves as the 2022 to 2023 Minnesota State FFA Treasurer.
Grams has been attending Little “I” since 2018 as an FFA member competing in the Livestock Evaluation Career Development Event. He currently serves on the 101st sponsorships/mailings/addresses committee as an assistant superintendent for Little “I”.
“I enjoy Little “I” because it has a place for everyone to engage with agriculture. Students can utilize the various contests as FFA members, and current students can adventure into showing a species they aren’t familiar with. It is a great way to branch out
and try new things!”
Raesa Zelinsky
Zelinsky is a freshman studying animal science, with an industry relations specialization, and is originally from Brookings, South Dakota. On campus, Zelinsky is involved in Collegiate Farm Bureau and Block and Bridle.
From a young age, Zelinsky grew a love for the sheep industry as she was raised on her family’s purebred Suffolk operation, which consists of roughly 100 ewes. The family markets rams to several seed stock producers across the country, and over the years, she started marketing Suffolks to local sheep exhibitors. Her passion for the sheep industry sparked her interest in doing more for the industry by serving as the treasurer for the National Junior Suffolk Sheep Board.
Aside from raising sheep and being heavily involved in the sheep industry, Zelinsky was actively involved in everything 4-H and FFA throughout her high school years. She currently serves as the 2023 to 2024 South Dakota FFA State Secretary.
Being from Brookings, Zelinsky is no stranger to what Little “I” is and has been coming to the event since she was a young 4-H member to compete in the Livestock Evaluation CDE. She currently serves as an assistant sheep superintendent for the 101st Little International.
“Little I, with its numerous mentors, provides an opportunity for students who previously might not have had a chance to show livestock to experience the daily obligations that are a part of showing and grow a greater appreciation for the livestock community,” said Zelinsky.
Emily Robbins
Robbins is a freshman studying agricultural business and is obtaining a minor in marketing, and originally from Elkton, South Dakota. On campus, she is involved in Block and Bridle and Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow.
As a sixth-generation agriculturalist, Robbins has always had a strong passion for the sheep industry. Robbins grew up raising Southdown breeding sheep and always enjoyed visiting her grandparents’ farm in Minnesota and Wyoming. Throughout her time in high school, Robbins was very active in both 4-H and FFA through a variety of competitions but also enjoyed her time showing her sheep and being an active leader wherever she was. Robbins served as a South Dakota State 4-H Ambassador on the American Junior Southdown Association and currently serves as the 2023 to 2024 South Dakota FFA State Sentinel.
Robbins is the assistant superintendent for the farm business management CDE on the 101st Little “ I “ staff.
“I enjoy being part of Little “I” because of the people. I love meeting new people who share a passion for agriculture,” said Robbins.
Written by Beth Holst
Back row (left to right) advisor Keith Underwood, Ty Skartvedt, Emmett Whempner, coach Bergin DeBruin, Front row (left to right) Jaylynn Frandrup, Teigen Hadrick, Cheyenne Hulstein
Many successes and learning experiences took place for the 2023 South Dakota State University Meat Judging Team this past season. The team members consisted of Cheyenne Hulstein of Chandler, Minnesota; Jaylynn Frandrup of Hastings, Minnesota; Teigen Hadrick of Faulkton, South Dakota; Ty Skartvedt of Radcliffe, Iowa; and Emmett Whempner of Wilmot, South Dakota. The team was coached by meat science graduate student Bergin DeBruin.
Meat judging allows students to broaden their knowledge of the meat industry, form decision-making skills, and become more informed consumers while allowing them to practice what they have learned in the classroom.
“My time as an SDSU meat judger was a great opportunity to build a lot of great connections within the industry,” says Cheyenne Hulstein. “It also gave me the opportunity to travel the country, see a lot of different plants and universities, along with creating lifelong memories with my teammates that became like my family.”
The team traveled to seven different competitions through the year, including competing at the National Western Stock Show in Denver, Colorado; the Iowa State Meat Judging Contest in Ames, Iowa; the National Barrow Show in Austin, Minnesota; the Southeastern Contest held jointly in both Columbus, Ohio and Lexington, Kentucky; and the American Royal in Dakota City, Nebraska, for the High Plains and International Contest.
Highlighted results from the season include placing first in the Team Processed Meats Division and Team Boneless Ham at the Iowa State contest. As a team, they also earned second in Beef Grading at Southeastern and Specifications at the National Barrow Show. Throughout the season, each individual member also earned top ten placings in numerous events.
While the plaques and ribbons will fade over time, the memories and friendships created during the team’s travels will last forever.
“Being on the SDSU Meat Judging Team is going to be a core college memory that every student should experience. I am sad to see my judging career behind me, but I am glad to have made new friends, perfected a skill I will use in my future career, and learned about the meat industry,” says Jaylynn Frandrup.
Coach Bergin DeBruin encourages future students to consider joining the Meat Judging eam. “When students join the Meat Judging Team, students are given opportunities to travel the country and network with some of the most well-known companies in the meat industry, as well as other students from different universities.”
Written by Sydney Sheffield
Three international championship titles set the South Dakota State University Quarter Scale Tractor Club apart from most organizations on campus.
This year’s team consists of 20 members from diverse majors, including precision agriculture, mechanical and agricultural engineering, agricultural systems technology, and even aviation. The team is advised by Doug Prairie, Ag and Biosystems Engineering instructor.
The team’s purpose is to build a tractor that is a quarter of the size of the industry standard. The team is judged on its practicality, performance, and safety. The team is also asked to develop a written design report and presentation - all of which is judged at the competition.
“Students learn engineering skills, part selection, 3D modeling, prototyping process, fabrication skills, project management, technical writing, cost analysis, and teamwork, and really we’re applying the things we’re learning in class and applying it to a real-world environment,” said Philip Black, a senior majoring in agricultural systems technology and two-year club president.
During the fall, the team is dedicated to researching, designing, and planning their next tractor. By the spring semester, their ideas start to come to life as they put the pieces together and test them for practicality and performance.
With the help of sponsors like Twin City Fan, who donate all the sheet metal for the project, the team is able to outfit their tractor with the power to pull a set weight, navigate an obstacle course, and withstand a durability challenge.
One advancement that the team uses to test effectiveness and workability is a 3D printer. Instead of trying to determine the precise fit of a purchased part by expensive trial and error, the team can put their desired part into the 3D printer and print it, which saves a significant amount of time checking exact fit and designs.
Even with all the recent wins by the SDSU team, they know that success is not given. It’s earned, which is why the team spent over 5,000 hours last year on their championship tractor. At the beginning of the process, they meet twice a week, but as the year continues on, you will find members working in the Raven Precision Agriculture building nearly every night, implementing, testing, and improving their design.
“The club is purely student decided, and the members have a lot of fun,” club advisor Douglas Prairie says. “The direction of the design of the tractor is by the club members, it’s not like an academic exercise – it’s more like a hobby that you can put on your resume. It can take a fair amount of time but it has become a fraternal type of organization within our department.”
Holding international titles in 2018, 2022, and 2023 sets the bar high for what the team hopes to do walking into the international competition in July of 2024 with the goal of taking home the top honor once again.
“Students in the Quarter Scale Tractor Club have the opportunity to constantly bounce ideas off each other,” Black noted, which has led to a variety of ideas for the design and how they can continue their championship streak.
Written by Ella Stiefvater
James Krantz, of Howard, was recently selected as the 2023 recipient of the South Dakota State University Friend of the Beef Industry award for his contributions to the South Dakota beef industry.
“Humbling best describes my feelings toward this award,” Krantz said. “Our state is extremely fortunate to have numerous individuals, past and present, who have helped construct a beef industry that is so well recognized and respected.”
Krantz graduated from SDSU in 1969 with a bachelor’s degree in animal science. During his college career, Krantz enjoyed working at the SDSU Meat Lab and being part of the Meat and Livestock Judging teams.
“Not only did my coursework prepare me for a future in the beef industry, but my four years of experience working in the SDSU Meat Lab exposed me to the relationship between the feedlot sector of the industry and the consumer end product,” Krantz said.
Most of Krantz’s direct involvement in the beef industry came from joining the SDSU Cooperative Extension service in 1991. As an SDSU Extension agent, educator and cow-calf field specialist, he was directly involved in the land-grant mission of bringing on-campus and industry research to cattlemen.
Producer commitment to animal well-being was a significant focus area of Krantz’s training sessions as the SDSU Extension cow-calf field specialist. Krantz also played a key role, along with Mike Barber, SDSU Foundation representative, in generating donor funds for the SDSU CowCalf Education and Research Facility. Krantz said that many of South Dakota’s cattlemen saw the need for the facility and provided financial funding for the project.
“I believe that South Dakota cattlemen are respected nationally for the quality of cattle they produce and their contributions to the leadership within the industry,” Krantz said. “Being a beef producer is special to me, especially in South Dakota.”
Presently, Krantz has no professional involvement with SDSU. However, he remains a committed contact and continues to serve the South Dakota 4-H program as a volunteer on the South Dakota State Fair beef committee.
“James Krantz dedicated his career to serving the beef industry as a member of the SDSU Cooperative Extension Service,” said Joseph Cassady, South Dakota Corn Endowed Dean of the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences. “Since his retirement, he has continued to support the beef industry with a particular focus on youth activities.”
Krantz has run a commercial cattle operation for over two decades, focusing on raising show steers and heifers for 4-H and FFA youth.
Krantz is an active volunteer helping youth learn more about how to show and judge livestock. He is an avid supporter of these opportunities because he sees young people gain confidence and communication skills, while learning about hard work, decision-making and animal stewardship.
Krantz has impacted the beef industry in a variety of ways. However, he says his favorite success stories are when he provided a producer with one solution or if one youth developed communication skills and improved confidence from participating in livestock judging programs.
“Many cattlemen have been mentors for me, and if I am worthy of this recognition, they have played a role in that merit,” Krantz said. “It would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the role my wife, Deanne, and our children Laura, Melissa, Tara and Rodney have played over the years. They have been there every step of the way to support me in our own cattle operation and my work in Extension.”
Krantz and his family were recognized on the field during the 2023 South Dakota State University Beef Bowl football game on September 9.
Written by Tessa Erdmann
Students at South Dakota State University are continuing the 15-year-old tradition of celebrating South Dakota’s number one industry, agriculture. However, instead of the traditional day, they will celebrate for a week.
Ag Week, traditionally known as Ag Day, is a campus-wide event created to honor the individuals who provide food, fiber and fuel for the rest of the world. It also doubles as a fun opportunity for student networking and advocacy for agriculture.
This year the event has expanded to be nearly a week-long celebration taking place April 15 to 18, 2024, with the Ag Day banquet being held on April 17, 2024. The theme for this year’s event is ‘Powered by Ag’ to highlight the industry’s influence on building the past, powering the present, and sustaining our future.
The primary facilitators of Ag Week are members of the CAFES Prexy Council Executive team, which consists of Kristen Smith, President; Bryce Adrian, Vice President; Megan Sanders, Secretary; Ella Stiefvater, Treasurer; Tessa Erdmann, CAFES Advocate; and advisor, Mary Christensen.
“This year, we are working to implement more into our Ag Week to elevate our students and provide more opportunities to get involved and celebrate what we’re most passionate about, and that’s agriculture,” said Kristen Smith, junior agricultural communications student and Prexy Council president.
With the help of generous industry sponsors, alumni, Students’ Association, clubs in CAFES, and many other supporters, students can freely take advantage of a variety of activities during the week.
Students can get a free Ag Week-themed t-shirt, participate in a quiz bowl with special guest SDSU President Barry H. Dunn, a roping contest, dodgeball, a swing dance, and social media initiatives.
All students and faculty also have the opportunity to attend the Ag Week banquet on April 17 free of charge where they get a meal and have the opportunity to hear from a highly respected keynote speaker, past SDSU head football coach John Stiegelmeier, who has strong ties to agriculture and the university.
“The coolest part of Ag Day in my eyes, is the comradery amongst students, faculty, and special guests,” Vander Wal, Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club president and Prexy Council representative said. “It is so exciting to hear about all the cool stories that come up during the festivities of Ag Day!”
Written by Ella Stiefvater
Each year, Animal Science students are selected to serve as Ambassadors for the South Dakota State University Department of Animal Science. The 2023 to 2024 Animal Science Ambassadors include Kallista Roers of Alexandria, Minnesota; Ella Kreber of Granville, Iowa; Bruce VanDe Stroet of Canton, South Dakota; Mitchell Vander Wal of Howard, South Dakota; Teigen Hadrick of Faulkton, South Dakota; and Grace Britton of Janesville, Minnesota. The group is advised by Lisa Roker, animal science advisor.
The purpose of the Ambassadors is to allow these elite students to promote what an education in Animal Science from SDSU could look like. You can find the Ambassadors
giving tours of the Animal Science Complex and Livestock Units to prospective students, as well as individually meeting with these students and their families to share their stories and experiences at SDSU.
“What I like most about being an ambassador is that I get prospective students excited about coming to SDSU, and I get to share my story and hear theirs,” said Roers.
Additionally, the Animal Science Ambassadors are a resource tool for first-year Animal Science majors. They serve as mentors to help make the transition from high school to college easier for first-year students by offering insight and advice about how to be successful in and outside of the classroom.
Ultimately, all of the Animal Science Ambassadors share a love for SDSU and are always willing to vouch for the amazing things it has to offer. When asked what Vander Wal’s favorite thing about the SDSU Department of Animal Science is, he states, “The commitment of professors, the dedication of faculty, and the comradery of all students within the Animal Science department is why I truly love animal science at SDSU.”
Written by Tessa Erdmann
As the 2023 Dairy Judging season has come to an end, this year’s team has been one to remember.
The team consisted of Ashley Holst of Kellogg, Minnesota; Owen Scheffler of Zumbrota, Minnesota; Maggie Molitor of Rockville, Minnesota; and Morgan Wingert of Harmony, Minnesota. They were coached by assistant professor Turner Swartz.
This year’s team traveled to five different competitions, starting with the Southwest Dairy Cattle Judging Contest in Fort Worth, Texas; NACTA Judging Conference in Modesto, California; The Vernon County Collegiate Dairy Cattle Judging Contest in Viroqua, Wisconsin; National Intercollegiate Dairy Cattle Judging Contest at the World Dairy Expo in Madison, Wisconsin; and North American International Livestock Exposition in Louisville, Kentucky.
At each contest, the competitors are asked to judge 10 to 12 classes, judging a variety of cattle breeds depending on the show, and give oral reasons for five of the classes.
Oral reasons are when competitors verbally explain why they placed the class the way they did. Wingert said she looks for cattle that check four major boxes: dairy strength, the animal’s frame, the correct set of rear feet and legs, and the quality of the udder.
Competitors have 15 minutes to evaluate each class and then are given 25 minutes of prep time to give their oral reasons to the judges. Later that same night, the team and individual rankings were announced.
Although the team had great success at every competition they entered, their biggest win was at the North American International Livestock Exposition, where they placed third
overall as a team.
“Louisville, being our last contest, we took everything we worked for our entire judging experience and made it show,” said Molitor. “Everyone increased their reasons score average by at least two points.”
The team members also placed overall individually. Owen Scheffler was one individual who really stood out this year. Scheffler placed in the top ten at each contest and was named an All-American Judge at the World Dairy Expo in Madison, Wisconsin.
This senior studying dairy production has grown up judging dairy cattle through both 4-H and FFA with his parents, Tony and Maizie Scheffler, coaching him. He knew when attending SDSU, he wanted to continue judging dairy cattle as it became a huge passion for him.
“It’s a family tradition to excel in dairy judging. My parents have coached me all of my years, from cloverbud to 4-H and FFA, and they even helped support me in college,” said Scheffler. “By being part of dairy judging, I have been able to follow my parents in their footsteps along with making new connections and building up my experience.”
The team ended their season at the North American International Livestock Exposition in Louisville, KY, on November 5, 2023. However, Swartz said, “I am excited to see what next year has in store for the 2024 team as they travel across the country to evaluate dairy cattle.”
Written by Beth Holst
Southwest Dairy Cattle Judging Team - 3rd Place Overall
NACTA Judging Conference Team - 2nd Place Overall
The Vernon Cunty Collegiate Dairy Cattle Judging Conest Team - 6th Place Overall
World Dairy Expo Team - 10th Place Overall
North American Internationall Livestock Exposition
Pictured, from left, are: coach Turner Swartz Ashley Holst, Owen Scheffler, Morgan Wingert and Maggie Molitor
Left to right: Clay Schoen, John Boerboom, Amelie Blakely, Linsey Schmoll, Lilly Langer, Lexi Gloege, Bradyn Lachenmeier, coach Emily Nold
The 2024 South Dakota State University Wool Judging Team hit the road in early January to start their competition season.
The team consists of John Boerboom of Marshall, Minnesota; Amelie Blakely of Sylvania, Ohio; Lindsey Schmoll of Wausau, Wisconsin; Lilly Langer of Ellsworth, Wisconsin; Lexi Gloege of Bellingham, Minnesota; and Bradyn Lachenmeier of Tappen, North Dakota. The team’s advisor and team coordinator is Rosie Nold, assistant department head and professor, and the coaches were Emily Nold, SDSU alumnus, Blake Johnson, SDSU Sheep Research and Training Unit manager, and Clay Schoen, graduate research assistant.
Wool Judging contests consist of three components: classes, rail grading, and reasons. The classes are then split into two fleece categories: breeding and commercial.
At most contests, the contestants are asked to judge six classes of wool made up of four wool samples. The students are asked to rank the wool from top to bottom based on quality.
“Students have the chance to develop soft skills like decisionmaking and communication through giving sets of oral reasons and attention to detail by learning how to grade the wool,” says Rosie Nold.
They started their season at the 7220 Contest in Laramie, WY; then traveled to Denver, Colorado, for the National Western Stock Show competition; and finally, they ended their season with a major accomplishment of placing first overall at the Black Hills Stock Show competition in Rapid City, South Dakota.
Four of the six team members who competed at the BHSS competition placed in the top ten individuals, with Lachenmeier placing second high individual overall, Boerboom placing third high individual overall, Gloege placing fourth high individual overall, and Blakely rounding out the top finishers by placing ninth high individual overall.
At the BHSS, three teams competed, including Texas A&M, the University of Wyoming and SDSU. This year’s win marks the third consecutive year that the SDSU Wool Judging Team took home the top honors.
“Placing first at the Black Hills Stock Show is a great boost,” said Rosie Nold. “We’ve had some highlights from other contests, but all the team members really pulled together on this one and did well individually and as a team. It was a very challenging contest and they were able to use their logic and keep calm to pull through with great results.”
As incredible as the student’s success on the team has been, these individuals are able to claim more than just the banners and recognition.
Wool judging provides students of all grade levels with the opportunity to learn about the components of finely selecting the highest-quality product. It also gives students real-world skills they can take with them after graduation.
“I chose to be a part of the wool judging team to learn more about the wool industry,” said Gloege. “I was primarily raised in the meat production side of the sheep industry, so wool has never been at the forefront of my knowledge. I have loved my time as a member of the wool judging team; it’s been fun to travel with a group of people who are just as passionate and competitive as I am!”
“The hard work and commitment the team has and continues to show is very admirable,” Emily Nold said. “As a coach, I am most proud of the accomplishments in the oral reasons room as there are no doubts that their organized articulation, fact-based persuasion, and ultimately their elevated communication skills will help each individual excel in every area of their lives.”
The team’s last competition will be at the Houston Stock Show and Rodeo on March 11, 2024.
Written by Ella Stiefvater
Black Hills Stock Show Team - High Team Overall
7220 Contest
Team - 7th Place Overall
2nd Place Live Evaluation and Value Based
5th High Team Reasons
National Western Stock Show Team - 7th Place Overall
3rd Place Reasons Overall
5th Place Placings Overall
2nd Place Hand-Spinning and Value Based
After two incredible fifth-place finishes at both national contests, the 2023 South Dakota State University Crops Judging team brought their all once again this year.
The 2023 team consisted of Edwin Pluimer of Montpelier, Indiana; Noah Zeigler of Good Thunder, Minnesota; and Keigo Imai of Malaysia, Asia. The team was coached by Brent Turnipseed, assistant department head and professor, and Ciera Kotaska, graduate student.
This year, the team competed at three competitions: Kansas City, Missouri, placing sixth; Leola University, Chicago, placing fifth; and the Regionals competition at Platteville, Wisconsin, placing third.
“Crops judging was a lot of fun for me because of all the people I met and learned from,” said Zeigler. “I believe it has benefitted me by learning how to network and teaching me many different types of plants and structures. This will be very beneficial for my future.”
Crops Judging consists of learning how to identify plants and seeds, seed analysis and grain grading. The plant and seed identification has 200 plant mounts or seeds that students must be able to identify and spell correctly. The seed analysis portion is where contestants get a base sample of an approved grain and are asked to determine the grain and put it in the correct category. The last portion of the contest is where contestants are asked to do grain grading, consisting of eight base samples with inert matter, weed seed, and crop seed added.
“As an international student, it was such an amazing experience to participate in the crops judging contest as I would not have obtained such experience back in my home country. As someone passionate about learning about seeds and crops, participating in this contest has been enjoyable,” says Imai.
The contest allows students to practice tangible agronomic skills while expanding and demonstrating the career knowledge they will need as crop science professionals.
“The time spent learning from Brent and being with friends is something that can never be replaced, and I will always hold it near my heart,” said Pluimer. “Crops judging will have a catapulted effect on my career as an agronomist. I learned more about the crops I already knew and over 1600 different plants and seeds to identify at a moment’s notice. My personal growth in crop knowledge was incredibly extensive. I know my career will be better off and faster paced because of my participation on the crops judging team.”
The team practices twice a week in preparation for the national contests, which are held in Kansas City and Chicago.
“Considering there was no college crops judging experience for any of the students, it was shocking how well they did this season, especially in Chicago,” said Turnipseed. “They had to learn everything from scratch and made great improvements throughout the season.”
Written by Grace Sargent
As the dust settles for the 2023 fall rodeo season, Ron Skovly, South Dakota State University Rodeo Program Coach, shares highlights from another very successful season.
The 2023 to 2024 Rodeo Team consisted of 45 traveling members for the fall 2023 season. These students come from many different majors, including Nursing, Veterinary Science, Engineering, Animal Science and Agricultural Business.
The SDSU Rodeo Team members spend their time practicing, traveling, keeping up with their animal chores, and helping with many other events the team is asked to help with, in addition to their studies and maintaining the 3.0 GPA requirement.
This fall, the team attended rodeos in River Falls, Wisconsin; North Platte, Nebraska; Ft. Dodge, Iowa, Dickinson, North Dakota; and Alta, Iowa.
After the six fall season rodeos, the women’s rodeo team is ranked second, and the men’s rodeo team is ranked fourth in their region. They have 15 team members in the top ten of their events in the Great Plains Region of college rodeo.
“The fall semester treated us all very well; we all won some and lost some, but most importantly, we all learned something that will help us improve for the next season. As a first-year rodeo member, I am excited to see what the next season has in store and hope that we continue to have an amazing season,” said Swayze Ness, a freshman team member.
The Great Plains Region consists of North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Iowa, Minnesota and Wisconsin. There are 280 total NIRA members in the Great Plains Region. College rodeo events include Bareback Riding, Saddle Bronc Riding, Bull Riding, Goat Tying, Steer Wrestling, Breakaway Roping, Tie Down Roping, Team Roping and Barrel Racing.
This spring, the season will kick off with the rodeo in Ames, Iowa, on April 5 and 6, 2024, followed by our very own 68th Annual Jackrabbit Stampede that will be held at the Dacotah Bank Center in Brookings, South Dakota, on April 12 and 13, 2024. After the Jackrabbit Stampede, the team will also compete in Spearfish, South Dakota, and Lincoln, Nebraska.
“I was very happy with our fall results and where we are sitting in the standings going into the spring season,” said Skovly. “Hopefully, everyone can come to cheer us on at the Dakota Bank Center on April 12th and 13th!”
Written by Beth Holst
The CAFES Prexy Council announced three recipients named Outstanding CAFES Senior during the annual Ag Day awards celebration on April 12, 2023. A committee organized of Prexy Council representatives and CAFES teachers selected Adrienne Lipinski, Josie Jenson, and Samantha Anderson for this award. The awards committee based their selection on outstanding campus leadership, community service, and campus impact.
Adrienne Lipinski
Originally from Eden Valley, Minnesota, Lipinski received a degree in agricultural communications with minors in marketing, advertising, public relations, journalism, and digital and social media. Lipinski’s passion for agriculture stems from growing up in her family’s diversified livestock operation. On campus, she was involved in Little International, Swine Club, Prexy Council, Collegiate Farm Bureau, Sigma Alpha Sorority, Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow, and was both a Collegiate 4-H Member and an Agriculture Future of America Conference Delegate. After graduation, Lipinski started working at Farmers Union Industries as the Marketing and Communications Specialist.
“I am so honored to be one of this year’s recipients of the Outstanding Senior Award,” said Lipinski. “I have dedicated countless hours and effort to the many organizations I am involved in, and it is humbling to be recognized for it.”
Josephine Jenson
Initially from Welch, Minnesota, Jenson received a degree in animal science with an industry specialization with a minor in agricultural business. Jenson grew up on a cow-calf and crop farm, where her family also raised hogs, lambs, and chickens. She was active in both 4-H and FFA from a young age and knew that the agricultural industry was the place for her. She was involved in Swine Club, Collegiate Cattleman, Block and Bridle, Jackrabbit Memorial Committee, Little International, and served as an Animal Science Ambassador on campus. After graduation, she plans to continue to be involved in the family farm and her family’s meat sale business. She currently works as Program Technician for Goodhue Farm Services.
“I am so honored and humbled to receive this award,” said Jenson. “CAFES has been instrumental to my success during my college career and in building personal and professional relationships. The students and professors I have interacted with have all been outstanding and made me feel welcome at SDSU from the start. I know that the experiences I have had in CAFES will guide my future in the agriculture industry, and I am thankful for all the opportunities I have had through CAFES!”
Samantha Anderson
Initially from Belview, Minnesota, Anderson received degrees in agricultural business and agricultural communications. Anderson grew up on a row crop farm and knew from a young age she loved agriculture and the lifestyle that comes along with it. On campus, she was involved in the Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow, National Agri-Marketing Association, Cru, Oasis College and Young Adult Ministry. After graduation, she launched her communications/media business, Farm x Faith Media, LLC. She works primarily with small businesses and agricultural cooperatives by offering various services to meet their communications needs.
“As I look at the other two recipients of this award and how involved they were on campus, I feel very honored to know that although I wasn’t involved in a wide variety of ag clubs on campus, my dedication and investment into the clubs that I was a part of was still valuable and didn’t go unnoticed,” said Anderson. “It’s not necessary to be recognized for my efforts, but it is an honor.”
Are you a first-timer here at SDSU Little International? Or an active supporter of this student-run livestock show? Or a proud Little “I” alumnus? Either way, take this quiz to see if you know all there is to know about Little “I”.
1. How many staff members were a part of the very first Little “I” in 1921?
a. 56
b. 19
c. 7
d. 44
2. The 44th Little “I” was the first to have a theme, what was the theme?
a. South Dakota in Tomorrow’s World
b. The Best of a New Generation
c. A Future of Challenges
d. A Past to Remember...A Future to Mold
3. What position on staff did Animal Science Assistant Department Head, Dr. Rosie Nold, hold in her undergraduate years?
a. Manager
b. Secretary
c. Treasurer
d. At-Large Member
4. Little “I” has had more than agricultural events in the past. Which SDSU college also used to participate in Little “I”?
a. Jerome J. Lohr College of Engineering
b. Van D. & Barbara Fishback Honors College
c. College of Arts & Humanities
d. College of Home Economics
5. How long does it take to dye the iconic green chips?
a. 12 hours
b. 2 hours
c. 5 hours
d. 8 hours
6. What year was the iconic red barn added to Little “I”?
a. 1938
b. 1947
c. 1945
d. 1952
7. How many students are on staff this year?
a. 158
b. 144
c. 150
d. 160
8. During the 1940’s, which events took place during Little “I”that are not present today?
a. Tap Dancing Contest
b. Ag Queen Contest
c. Cow Milking Contest
d. All of the above
9. What was the first year FFA Career Development Events (CDE’s) were added to Little “I”?
a. 1944
b. 1960
c. 1973
d. 1962
10. Which species were students able to exhibit in the early days of Little “I” that is not shown in today’s events?
a. Poultry
b. Rabbits
c. Dairy Goats
d. Mules
Answers:
Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow’s (ACT) purpose is to help build relationships among agricultural communication professionals, college students, and faculty to develop and strengthen students through professional growth opportunities and educational programs. The group’s members learn more about journalism, photography, videography, graphic design, social media, communications, and marketing, as well as how communication can benefit the agriculture industry. Meetings include hands-on workshops that allow members to develop content for use in their portfolios, industry professionals sharing their expertise, and other club business items. This chapter participates in Hobo Day festivities and campus Ag Day, is a member of the CAFES Prexy Council, and volunteers at the community Harvest Table. SDSU’s ACT chapter is a National Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow chapter.
Agriculture Future of America (AFA) is a nonprofit organization that serves to develop the next generation of leaders, specifically students pursuing degrees in agriculture. AFA promotes professionalism, intellectualism, entrepreneurialism and experiential opportunities. This is accomplished by focusing programming on the six core competencies identified by AFA: relationship development, cultural EQ, systems thinking, interpersonal IQ, collaboration, and career management. Each year, SDSU students are thrilled to participate in the Leaders Conference. Students also have the opportunity to attend the five industry-focused Leaders Institutes, which occur throughout the year at various locations in the U.S.
FFA Alumni/Ag Ed Club enhances the collegiate experience by creating premier leaders, enabling personal growth, and ensuring career success through agriculture education. This group focuses on giving back to the National FFA Organization in various ways, including hosting Jackrabbit
Invite, a leadership development event for high school FFA members each fall. The club’s approximately 90 members also participate in the Agricultural Education RoadShow, SDSU Ag Day, National FFA Convention, South Dakota FFA Convention and community service projects.
The SDSU Agronomy and Precision Ag Club is a group of students interested in crop science and agricultural production practices. The group meets with local industry leaders to discuss new agricultural topics, cuttingedge technologies, and potential internship and career opportunities. The club also works to schedule tours of various businesses in the agriculture industry. In addition, club members participate within the Brookings community and across campus by participating in the Hobo Day Parade, Adopt-A-Highway project, and activities in the Agronomy, Horticulture, and Plant Science Department.
AGR is a prominent fraternity at South Dakota State University with a primary purpose to “Make Better Men.” AGR strives to give its members the skills and knowledge to become the next generation of agriculturalists and leaders. In doing so, they emphasize the importance of brotherhood and fellowship by providing their members with lifelong friendships within the fraternity and professional networking across the nation with other AGR members and alums. With 45 members, AGR is an active organization on campus as a part of the College of Agriculture, Food, and Environmental Sciences. Additionally, they are active community members through acts of community service and the annual pancake feed in support of the Blue Jackets Bright Futures program, which provides FFA members with their blue corduroy jackets.
Alpha Zeta Fraternity is an honorary professional society for students and industry professionals in the agriculture and natural resources fields. The fraternity recognizes male and female students in the top two-fifths of the student body enrolled in the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences. Membership is by invitation only, making it an esteemed honor to be qualified to join. The group’s goal is to keep membership connected with industry professionals by inviting leaders in agriculture to speak at meetings. Through events, members promote agriculture around campus and within the Brookings community. Some community involvement activities have included projects with the local food pantry, hosting events with the Brookings County Youth Mentoring Program, cleaning Frost Area and putting together care packages for soldiers.
American Fisheries Society (AFS) is the world’s oldest and largest organization dedicated to advancing and conserving fisheries resources. The SDSU Student Subunit of AFS is one of over 85 student subunits at universities across North and South America. The mission of the SDSU Student Subunit is to enhance the professional development of undergraduate and graduate students as they pursue careers in fisheries science. Members of the student subunit interact with professionals from various organizations as they gain knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience in fisheries and aquatic resource management. The subunit welcomes all students interested in aquatic resources. It provides opportunities to participate in professional meetings, public outreach, and social events at the local, state and national level.
The Jacks Agricultural Technology and Engineering Club (JATEC) joins together three different majors to connect students with industry leaders and develop professional networking skills. These three majors include Ag and Biosystems Engineering, Agriculture Systems Technology and Precision Agriculture. The club’s largest event has included an industry inspection trip where the club travels around the Midwest touring companies within the industry. Teaching students about the opportunities in their major and connecting them with other students and employers stands as the club’s ultimate goal.
Block & Bridle is part of the National Block and Bridle and functions on three basic objectives: promote a higher scholastic standard, enhance the professionalism of student members, and strive to bring about a close relationship among all students pursuing some phase of animal science as a profession. This club allows students to connect with other students interested in animal agriculture, no matter the major or livestock species. This club participates in the Harvest Table, SDSU Ag Day and Jackrabbits Memorial calf
Ceres Women’s Fraternity provides a variety of leadership opportunities, beneficial educational programs, sisterly connections and has a meaningful purpose. The ladies within this organization come from various backgrounds and are striving for degrees within various disciplines, making the chapter diverse. This diversity creates a foundation for numerous connections among fellow sisters and allows women to find their purpose. Some events and service projects members can look forward to participating in are Highway Clean-up, Relay for Life, Natural Tie, and Little International.
Collegiate 4-H is an extension of the national 4-H organization for students who were active in 4-H at the state or national level and looking to be involved at the collegiate level. It allows its members the opportunity to meet others who share the same passion towards 4-H as you do! Collegiate 4-H stays busy with National Convention, National Western Roundup, and making tie blankets for hospitals and cards for veterans.
The Country Swing Dancing Club creates a community at SDSU for students to come together and enjoy the art of country swing dancing. The group hosts dances throughout the year in addition to practices on campus where students can learn and practice their swing dancing skills.
Collegiate Farm Bureau is an affiliate of the South Dakota Farm Bureau. This organization is an excellent opportunity for SDSU students from agricultural backgrounds or majoring in agriculture-related fields to gain leadership skills and network with agriculture professionals. Club members can participate in state Farm Bureau conferences, county meetings, Young Farmers and Ranchers conferences, and discussion meets.
Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club is a new club on campus this year and has sparked quite the interest in SDSU students, boasting over 100 members in its first year of existence. SDSU Collegiate Cattlemen’s is targeted at promoting the beef industry towards college-age students. They strive to allow SDSU students to come together and talk about the cattle industry while eating delicious beef. The clubs goal for each meeting is to bring in industry leaders to educate the members more about the beef industry both at home and afar while continuing their education. The club meets once a month and serves beef at every meeting. The club is planning to impliment a spring trip that will expose members to the industry in South Dakota.
Dairy Club offers opportunities to students with a passion for the dairy community. Some events the club participates in are the World Dairy Expo and Midwest Affiliate (ADSASAD). The club hosts a Dairy Camp each summer for 50 kids ages 8-18. Youth can learn how to clip, wash and show their own animal. The Dairy Club funds their experiences through a cheese box fundraiser every year. This club is open to all majors and anyone interested in the dairy community.
FarmHouse Fraternity is dedicated to the building of men. It promotes the growth and welfare of members through a four-fold focus on intellectual, social/moral, spiritual, and physical development. The organization is proud of its strong tradition of community service throughout Brookings and surrounding areas, including assisting with installing and removing docks on Lake Campbell, helping move Brookings residents, mowing lawns for community members and helping alums brand cattle. One of their largest events is Totally Baldacious, which is a fundraiser benefiting the family of a local child fighting a battle against cancer, in addition to raising money for the Leukemia Lymphoma Society, the fraternity’s national philanthropy partner.
Finance, Insurance and Real Estate Club (FIRE) club provides SDSU students with an opportunity to expand their knowledge in the areas of finance, insurance and real estate while gaining professionalism in the industry. FIRE is open to any major, and its goal is to give its members many opportunities to network with different companies in partnership with industry professionals from across the state. With speakers from various professions with internships and future career opportunities available, students are given the tools and advice to develop leadership and work skills. Students in the organization will benefit from these experiences and various workshops facilitated to improve professionalism, including LinkedIn etiquette, professional headshots, and business cards.
The Food Science Club is a student-led organization for any student interested in food. The club aims to provide its members with ongoing professional development by creating a community of students, university faculty, and other professionals in the food science industry. The club is passionate about promoting food science through events and service projects within SDSU and the Brookings community. Throughout the year, the club participates in various activities, including social, professional, fundraising, and service activities. The club is committed to making the world a better place through something everyone loves - food!
The Horse Club aims to engage its members within the South Dakota equine industry and help increase students’ knowledge of horses. The club hosts a variety of speakers, including farriers, veterinarians and barn managers. Other activities the club hosts and participates in include its annual petting zoo and food drive, fall trail rides and the Hobo Day parade. Horse Club welcomes all experience levels and strives to educate, make connections, and have fun!
The Horticulture and Urban Agriculture Club connects students with various aspects of the horticulture industry. The club has also taken teams to the Mid-America Collegiate Horticultural Society (MACHS) contest and hosts a virtual contest. Members can also look forward to participating in Hobo Week traditions and the annual Trick or Trees held at McCrory Gardens.
Investment Club is within the Ness School of Management and Economics and is open to any major. With approximately 50 club members, the group brings in various business industry leaders such as financial advisors and analysts, ag bankers, and more to talk about their careers, give advice, and answer club members’ questions. The club also hosts a trading competition through the Interactive Brokers platform. Participants have the chance to win a cash prize based on the success of their portfolio. The Investment Club is an excellent way for students to learn more about investments and career choices that might interest them.
National Agri-Marketing Association (NAMA) is a professional growth and networking opportunity for students to collaborate with other like-minded and passionate students. This club develops and delivers innovative ideas to the agriculture industry through real-world, hands-on experiences. Members of NAMA develop a comprehensive marketing plan and presentation about an agricultural product that provides a solution to a challenge facing agriculture. This presentation is used in competing in an annual marketing competition alongside 30+ other chapters from across North America.
The Natural Resources Law Enforcement Club focuses on networking, professional development, resume building, and hands-on training pertaining to natural resources law enforcement. During meetings, the club brings in speakers to discuss current NRLE topics and answer student’s questions.
Any students interested in a career in veterinary medicine will have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience applicable to their future while socializing with other Pre-Vet students. One of the goals of Pre-Vet Club is to support students through their time at SDSU and the vet school application process. The club serves as a way for members to ask upperclassmen questions as they apply to veterinary school, form study groups as they take classes together, and network with other students and faculty for research, international travel, and work experience. Pre-Vet club members participate in events and service projects, including monthly meetings, wet lab experiences with Dell Rapids Vet Clinic, trips to regional vet schools, hosting booths at campus Ag Day and the CAFES ice cream social, hosting a necropsy night in collaboration with SDSU Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences staff and general preparation for the vet school application process.
The Quarter Scale Tractor Club is an engineering-based club that touches on all aspects of the manufacturing process. The team is comprised of more than just engineers, as the competition has many different aspects besides engineering. Events this club and its members participate in are the National Quarter Scale Competition, Tractor Pulls, Durability Courses, and Design Judging.
Range Club seeks to promote interest in range management by educating others while enhancing members’ social and professional skills through club activities. As the South Dakota Student Chapter of the Society for Range Management, the club welcomes students studying or interested in the field of range management.
The Rodeo Club plays a vital role in the success of the SDSU Rodeo Team. Club members are involved in rodeo practices, the Hobo Day parade, rodeo stock chores, fundraisers, including the Buckles and Bling fundraiser, and the production of the Jackrabbit Stampede Rodeo.
The Pheasants Forever Chapter allows students to become involved in an organization aimed toward the future. All backgrounds are welcome to explore the world of conservation and hunting while making lifelong professional relationships with other conservation partners and club members. The SDSU chapter is just getting off the ground. It encourages students to continue helping them grow a strong foundation for the club’s prosperity.
Sigma Alpha Sorority is a professional agricultural sorority that promotes scholarship, leadership, service and fellowship among its members. The sorority allows its members to grow both personally and professionally. At the same time, being dedicated to giving back to the local community through Ag in the Classroom, roadside ditch clean up, serving food at Harvest Table, hosting the annual Blue Jackets, Bright Futures Pancake Feed with Alpha Gamma Rho, and hosting other professional development and sisterhood events.
Swine Club provides students with a great way to network with industry professionals through meetings and events. The group invites several speakers throughout the year to provide members with professional development and student internships/career opportunities. The club also takes field trips to area swine operations and other businesses in the industry. Activities the club also participates in include Harvest Table, Pork Classic, Brookings County Youth Mentoring Halloween Bash and Ag Day at the Pavilion and on campus.
The Wildlife and Fisheries Conservation Club WFCC is a student chapter of The Wildlife Society. The club’s primary goals include providing students with communication and educational opportunities, preparing members for careers, encouraging professionalism and high standards of scholarship, and fostering campus and community awareness of wildlife issues. The WFCC participates in many events, such as the Adopt-a-Lake program, volunteering with The Nature Conservancy, representing SDSU at the South Dakota Wildlife Society’s annual meeting, and many other professional development events. Students of all majors are encouraged to join the WFCC as long as they have a passion for wildlife and the outdoors.
Peter, better known as “Pete,” Pritchett of Pipestone, Minnesota, started attending South Dakota State University in 1986. Pritchett was actively involved on campus, serving as a student senator, a member of the Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity, Alpha Zeta Honor Fraternity, Block and Bridle, Collegiate 4-H, Junior Livestock Judging Team, Meats Judging Team and Little International as livestock coordinator.
In May 1988, Pete sadly passed away before he was able to complete his senior year. To honor his passion, dedication and legacy, Little International honors a staff member who exemplifies the qualities that Pete had.
Recipients of the Pete Pritchett award are nominated and voted on by the entire staff, making this award even more special for the recipient. During the 100th Little “I” Trevor Frost was honored with the award.
From Ashton, South Dakota, Frost served on the executive committee and oversaw the equipment crew for two years. The equipment crew is made up of 13 members, who work to set up and tear down the Animal Science arena for the festivities, which includes the construction of the iconic big red barn.
“Countless people put in hours of work to make this event run smoothly and to be chosen for this award was unforgettable,” said Frost.
Frost’s favorite part of Little “I” was being able to be part of the centennial celebration. He enjoyed meeting people who have the same passion for SDSU and Little “I” that he has. Each year, members of Pete’s family attend Little “I” to
present the award. During the centennial celebration, Pete’s little sister, Kammy Stueven, attended and soaked up the special tribute with her brother Scott, husband Mark and daughter Mariah.
“Pete put a lot of time and work into his studies at SDSU and Little International,” said Kammy. “He enjoyed being a part of agriculture and giving back, and this award is a way for Pete to continue to give back to the hardworking students at SDSU Little International. Being backstage during the centennial celebration and seeing all of the students and staff working so hard to put this show on was amazing.”
While attending the 100th celebration, Pete’s family enjoyed being able to visit with friends of Pete’s, who were also alumni of SDSU and AGR. They also liked watching the alumni round robin as they knew those participating were celebrating the traditions that Pete enjoyed by bringing past, present and future participants together.
Written by Kristen Smith
1989 Sean Groos, Colman, SD
1990 Shane Odegaard, Lake Preston, SD
1991 Leland Olsen, Arlington, SD
1992 Kurt Netzke, Lamberton, MN
1993 Jeff Rabey, Akron, IA
1994 Dave VanderWal, Volga, SD
1995 Mike Fischbach, Mansfield, SD
1996 David Grinde, Colton, SD
1997 Darin Zuehlke, Britton, SD
1998 Chad Hastad, Madison, MN
1999 Matt Gunderson, Mission Hill, SD
2000 Aaron Singrey, Hazel, SD
2001 John Blachford, Lake Preston, SD
2002 Philip Schmidt, Alden, MN
2003 Wendy Mohrhauser, Hartford, SD
2004 Jeff Paul, Swea City, IA
2005 Kyle Caskey, Pipestone, MN
2007 Ben Hollingshead, Ogden, IA
2008 Scott VanderPoel, Pipestone, MN
2009 Blake Harms, Dell Rapids, SD
2010 Amanda Fehrman, Lake Benton, MN
2011 Greg Lalemen, Currie, MN
2012 Trent Kubik, Hamill, SD
2013 Cody Rehder, Suterland, IA
2014 Austin Mann, Crofton, NE
2015 Joe Gathje, Richmond, MN
2016 Emma Christenson, Milbank, SD
2017 Devin Jacobs, Newcastle, NE
2018 Lisa Smith, Kimball, SD
2019 Madison Hokanson, Goodhue, MN
2020 Addison Magill, Verona, ND
2021 Luke Groos, Howard Lake, MN
2022 Sadie Vander Wal, Brentford, SD
2023 Trevor Frost, Ashton, SD
The College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences (CAFES) is home to six different academic departments. The 1,971 students have 20 different major options with countless minors and certificates to choose from.
The departments that make up CAFES include the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering; Department of Agronomy, Horticulture and Plant Science; Department of Animal Science; Department of Dairy and Food Science, Department of Natural Resource Management and Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences. The Ness School of Management and Economics is affiliated with both CAFES and the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, and offers agricultural business and agricultural economics classes. The Agricultural Leadership Education, Communications and Science academic unit serves as the departmental home for students with multidisciplinary majors in the college.
The Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering offers students the opportunity to pursue careers in Agricultural Biosystems Engineering (ABE), Precision Agriculture (PRAG) and Agricultural Systems Technology (AST). This department strives to impact the future of agriculture through engineering, precision agriculture and technology by focusing on identifying and improving the world’s food production systems and available natural resources for an enhanced future. Students can further their education and networking by joining the Quarter Scale Tractor Club, Jackrabbits Agricultural and Technical Engineering Club and or the Fluid Power Club.
Students within the Department of Agronomy, Horticulture & Plant Science are offered educational opportunities that span a range of careers in the plant sciences, such as agronomy, crop
production, entomology, genetics, genomics, horticulture, plant breeding, plant pathology, precision agriculture, pest management, soil science and weed science. The department is passionate about the Local Foods Education Center found on campus as well as the research that they conduct. Students can
enhance their skills by participating in crops or soil judging or joining the Agronomy and Precision Ag Club, Horticulture and Urban Agriculture Club and or Botany Club.
The Department of Animal Science is the largest department within CAFES. The department offers students a multidisciplinary approach towards production efficiency, product enhancement and natural resource management as they relate to animal science. Students receive hands-on learning opportunities through class field trips and access to the five on-site livestock units. The department offers three different specializations, including food animal health, industry and science. Students have the opportunity to gain industry experience through meats, wool and livestock judging. Clubs in the department include Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club, Little International, Swine Club, Block and Bridle and or Horse Club.
SDSU’s Department of Dairy and Food Science has been an industry-leading program in the United States for more than a century. The majors within the department include dairy manufacturing, food sciences and dairy production. Students within this department are guaranteed 100% job placement after graduation. Students have access and opportunities to the Davis Dairy Plant and the SDSU Dairy Bar. The dairy judging team, the department started up the program once again to provide opportunities for students to sharpen their skills. The department also houses the Dairy Club and Food Science Club.
The Department of Natural Resource Management offers students five different fields of study including, conservation planning & park management, ecology and environmental science with rangeland ecology and management specialization, natural resource law enforcement and wildlife and fisheries. Students gain hands-on opportunities through the Oak Lake Field Station and two summer courses, Natural Resources Management Field Techniques and Law Enforcement Techniques. Students can also expand their knowledge and networking skills through the Ecology Club, Pheasants Forever Club and/or Wildlife and Fisheries Club.
The Department of Agricultural Business and Economics academic unit is unique because it combines management and economics with technical knowledge in production agriculture. Students work with professors and advisors in the Ness School of Management and Economics to develop their business knowledge while also taking a variety of agricultural courses in CAFES students can get involved in the NAMA Club, Investment Club, FIRE Club and or CEO Club.
The Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences strives to protect and improve the health of animals, the viability of the livestock industry and the welfare of society through highquality diagnostic, research, Extension and teaching activities. students benefit by receiving an educational foundation that makes them competitive applicants to colleges of veterinary medicine. The Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences Department has laboratories that help expand service to the public. In the fall of 2021, SDSU partnered with the University of Minnesota to provide a collaborative opportunity for the Professional Program in Veterinary Medicine that leads to their Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. The interaction, discovery and education that takes place in this department results in new knowledge, timely information and students preparing for careers that make a difference for animals and people alike. Students can get involved in this department through the Pre-Veterinary Club.
The Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education, Communications and Sciences provides students a foundation through a variety of courses across the college. They are prepared for broad career options, including production agriculture, teaching, marketing and communications and leadership positions within the industry. Within the unit are two core majors with multiple specializations in education, communication and leadership. The education specialization allows students to complete a professional education curriculum that leads to a secondary teaching certificate with a specialization in agriculture. The communication specialization gears students up to promote the agriculture industry through marketing, advertising, photography and journalism. The leadership specialization teaches students leadership skills and prepares them for careers in service through agricultural organizations, government and extension. Within ALECS, students have the option to pursue a bachelor’s degree or associate degree in agricultural sciences. This flexible option allows students to select a four-year or two-year track and be well-rounded with a variety of agricultural courses. Students can get involved in this unit through the Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow Club, Ag Ed/FFA Alumni Club and or Collegiate 4-H.
For more information related to CAFES, visit sdstate.edu/cafes.
Compiled by Kristen Smith
The 2023 to 2024 academic year has brought new faces to the South Dakota State University College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences. James Connors was welcomed as associate dean and director of academic affairs for the college, and John Jaeger was appointed as the new head of the Department of Animal Science.
Connors grew up a “city kid” in Pittsburgh, PA. However, he prefers to claim Caledonia, MI, as his hometown. Throughout high school, Connors was influenced by his agricultural education teachers, who showed him that he wanted to pursue a career in agricultural education as well.
After obtaining a degree in agribusiness and natural resources education, Connors taught high school ag education and served as an FFA advisor for five years. After serving as a high school teacher, Connors wished to go back for further schooling to work with students at the higher education level. He then obtained both his master’s and Ph.D. from Michigan State in Agriculture Extension and Education. Following his Ph.D., Connors served as the department head of Agricultural Education, Leadership, and Communications for fifteen years at the University of Idaho.
Wanting a new challenge, Connors graciously accepted his position at SDSU as the associate dean and director of academic affairs. Connors has enjoyed meeting the faculty and students so far and is looking forward to making a difference in the college by offering the best courses, facilities, and majors to prepare students for success in the agriculture industry.
Jaeger is originally from Moro, OR, and grew up on a dry-land wheat and cattle ranch. After participating in 4-H for ten years and developing a love for cattle, he knew he wanted to pursue a career in animal science.
Jaeger attended Oregon State University for his undergraduate degree and was then offered a research assistantship at OSU to earn his master’s in reproductive physiology. After earning his master’s, Jaeger worked as a cow/calf herdsman and assistant scientist for Kansas State University for eight years. Afterward, he returned to Oregon State to obtain his Ph.D. in reproductive physiology.
Being drawn to SDSU’s commitment to being a land grant university and the young, energetic faculty in the Department of Animal Science, Jaeger was excited to be named the head of the department in late summer 2023. So far, he has enjoyed the warm welcome from the people of South Dakota.
He is looking forward to bettering the department by developing a strong undergraduate research program, continuing to improve the hands-on animal teaching facilities and watching young faculty grow into great professors.
Written by Sydney Sheffield
Novice Swine Showmanship Champion: Reserve:
Swine Showmanship Champion: Reserve:
Heifer Fitting Champion: Reserve:
Bull Fitting Champion: Reserve:
Novice Beef Showmanship Champion: Reserve:
Beef Showmanship Champion: Reserve:
Novice Sheep Fitting Champion: Reserve:
Sheep Fitting Champion: Reserve:
Novice Sheep Showmanship Champion: __________________________ Reserve: _____________________________
Sheep Showmanship Champion: Reserve:
Novice Dairy Fitting Champion: Reserve:
Dairy Fitting Champion: Reserve:
Beef Cattle Fitting Contest Champion: Reserve:
Novice Dairy Showmanship Champion: Reserve:
Dairy Showmanship Champion: Reserve:
Novice Goat Fitting Champion: Reserve:
Goat Fitting Champion: Reserve:
Novice Goat Showmanship Champion: Reserve:
Goat Showmanship Champion: Reserve:
Novice Horse Fitting Champion: Reserve:
Horse Fitting Champion: Reserve:
Novice Horse Showmanship Champion: Reserve:
Horse Showmanship Champion: Reserve:
Lamb Lead Champion: Reserve:
Round Robin Champion: Reserve:
Manager - Isaac Berg is a senior majoring in animal science with a minor in dairy industry from Pipestone, MN. He is the son of Philip and Laurel Berg. In Little “I”, he has shown livestock and competed for highpoint, and on campus, he is a part of the Swine Club, Dairy Club and started Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club.
Treasurer - Kallista Roers is a senior animal science major with minors in agribusiness marketing and ag business management from Alexandria, MN. She is the daughter of Royce and Janelle Roers. She’s served as the past LI swine assistant, superintendent, and assistant treasurer. On campus, she is involved in Swine Club, Cattlemen’s Club, Virtual Farm Tour Guide, and Animal Science Ambassador.
Exec MemberTessa Erdmann is a junior majoring in ag communication with minors in public relations, marketing, social and digital media, and professional writing from Groton, SD. She is the daughter of Darrin and Julie Erdmann. On campus, she is involved in Sigma Alpha, AFA, Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow, and is the 2023 to 2024 CAFES Advocate.
Exec Member - Makenna Skiff is a junior majoring in dairy production and animal science from Norfolk, NE. She is the daughter of Matt and Angie Skiff. She previously served as the Dairy Assistant for the 99th and Dairy Superintendent for the 100th Little “I”. On campus, she is involved in the SDSU Dairy Club, Jackrabbit Dairy Camp, and the Collegiate Dairy Cattle Judging team.
Asst. Manager - Teigen Hadrick is an animal science junior with a minor in meat science from Faulkton, SD. He is the son of Troy and Stacy Hadrick. He has been on the livestock transportation committee for the past two years, where they took livestock from the units to the arena, and now serves as the 101st Assistant Manager. Other campus involvement includes the SDSU Meats Judging team, and FarmHouse Fraternity.
Asst. Secretary - Paige Lehrkamp is a junior majoring in ag education and ag leadership with minors in animal science and ag business from Hermosa, SD. She is the daughter of Michael and Kori Lehrkamp. On campus, she is involved in Sigma Alpha Sorority, AG ED/ FFA Alumni Club, and is an agricultural education ambassador. She is a South Dakota FFA Career Development Event Coordinator.
Exec MemberLauren Weishaar is a junior majoring in ag communication with minors in animal science and advertising from Lemmon, SD. She is the daughter of Shawn and Sarah Weishaar. She’s been the assistant on the photography committee for two consecutive years and is also involved in the Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club and Alpha Zeta Honors Fraternity.
Exec MemberGrace Erickson is a senior majoring in ag business with minors in agribusiness marketing and entrepreneurial studies from Alden, MN. She is the daughter of Dan and Jenny Erickson. On campus, she is involved in Sigma Alpha, Block and Bridle, Jackrabbit Memorial, Collegiate Farm Bureau and enjoys showing and being around the livestock industry.
Secretary - Ashley Holst is a senior majoring in animal science with minors in the dairy industry and ag business from Kellogg, MN. She is the daughter of Jary and Celene Holst. She enjoys the memories of 100th Little I, Sigma Alpha, and is a member of the Senior Dairy Judging team.
Asst. TreasurerMiles Hoffman is a junior animal science major with a minor in agribusiness marketing from Leola, SD. He is the son of Colin and Mary Beth Hoffman. He was a formerly experienced beef and novice goat exhibitor and a member of Collegiate Cattlemen’s. He enjoys being outdoors, hunting, fishing, and being with friends.
Exec Member - Jake Thompson is a senior ag and biosystems engineering major from Maple Park, Illinois. He is the son of Mike and Jennifer Thompson. He is a member of FarmHouse Fraternity, ASABE, National Fluid Power Association, Collegiate Farm Bureau and the Fluid Power Bike Competition.
Exec MemberGrace Arthur is a junior majoring in ag communication and ag leadership with minors in animal science, social and digital media, and professional writing from Owatonna, MN. She is the daughter of Bill and Vicki Arthur. She previously served as the Assistant Media and Website Superintendent and is involved in Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow and Sigma Alpha Sorority.
Exec Member - Ethan Wright is a senior majoring in ag science with minors in animal science and precision ag from Brandon, SD. He is the son of Kelly and Julie Wright. On campus, he is involved in the Collegiate Cattleman’s Club. He enjoys helping at home on the family farm and other outside activities.
Exec MemberCheyenne Hulstein is a senior animal science major with minors in equine studies and meat science from Chandler, MN. She is the daughter of Jeff and Lorna Hulstein. For the 100th and this year, she is a part of the Executive Committee At Large. Besides Little “I” she is involved in the SDSU Meats Judging Team, Horse Club, Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club and Block & Bridle.
Asst. Advertising, Advocacy, and Publicity
- Gabby Fink is a sophomore majoring in ag communication with minors in professional writing, environmental law, legal studies, agribusiness marketing, and pre-law certificate. She is the daughter of Chris and Rochelle Fink of Pankinton, SD. Gabby is involved in Agriculture Communicators of Tomorrow, Block and Bridle and Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club.
Asst. Ag Mechanics
- Cody Williams is a freshman animal science major with a minor in ranch management. Originally from Bonesteel, SD, he is the son of Mark and Sandy Williams. On campus, he is a member of the Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club. In his free time, he enjoys working with large animals.
Exec Member - Kaleb Koerselman is a senior majoring in ag science with minors in ag business, agribusiness marketing, and precision ag from Le Mars, IA. He is the son of Keith and Kristin Koerselman. His past experience in Little “I” includes showing swine in his first two years, where he placed reserve showmanship swine and was able to experience Round Robin.
Exec MemberCassidy Strommen is a sophomore majoring in ag communication with minors in animal science and advertising from Solen, ND. She is the daughter of Aaron and Sheyna Strommen. On campus, she is involved in Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club, Sigma Alpha Sorority, Swine Club and NAMA. At the 100th Little International she was Lamb Lead hardest worker.
Asst. Advertising, Advocacy, and Publicity
- Gabi Joos is a freshman ag communication major, is the daughter of Shane and Bridget Joos of Hancock, MN. At SDSU, Gabi is involved in Sigma Alpha, Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club, and Swine Club and is the member relations officer for Agriculture Communicators of Tomorrow.
Asst. Ag MechanicsDevon Moore is a senior ag systems technology major with minors in ag business, precision ag, and agribusiness marketing. He is from Urbandale, IA, and is the son of Candice Moore. On campus, he is involved with JATEC, Shooting Sports Club, and Swine Club and has worked in the Ag Engineering Department for the past four years.
Exec Member - Mitchell VanderWal is a junior double major in animal science and ag science from Howard, SD. He is the son of Jeff and Beth VanderWal. His Little I involvement includes High Point Freshman and the Livestock Judging Committee. On campus, he is involved in Animal Science Ambassadors, Livestock Judging Team, and President of Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club.
Advertising, Advocacy, and Publicity
SuperintendentMadison Weishaar is the daughter of Shawn and Sarah Weishaar and a junior ag communication and animal science major with a minor in public relations. Originally from Lemmon, SD, Madison stays active on campus through Alpha Zeta, Collegiate Cattleman’s Club, and being a returning staff member to Little I.
Ag Mechanics
SuperintendentAndrew Burns is a freshman ag science major from Gibbon, MN. He is the son of Curt and Jackie Burns. Andrew is also involved with the Agronomy and Precision Ag Club. In his free time, Andrew enjoys farming and watching NASCAR races.
Ag Product Sales
Superintendent - Tayler Franz is the daughter of Todd and MK Franz, is originally from Bingham Lake, MN. Tayler is a sophomore ag business major. She is actively involved in the Swine Club Executive Team, Dairy Club, Sigma Alpha, and SDSU Treble Choir.
Asst. Ag Product
Sales - Jack Sohm is a freshman animal science major with a minor in ranch management from Battle Creek, IA. He is the son of Ed and Jenni Sohm. On campus, he is involved in the Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club and enjoys team roping and spending time with family.
Alumni Relations
Superintendent - Audrey Field is the daughter of Matt and Aren Field from Volga, SD. She is a sophomore studying animal science with minors in ag business and agribusiness marketing. On campus, she is a member of Swine Club and Sigma Alpha Sorority.
Asst. Awards - Jerson Kopka is a sophomore studying ag business with minors in rural real estate and land evaluation. He is the son of Sara and Keith McNamara and Mark Kopka, and is from Bird Island, MN. On campus, he is the Block and Bridle Marshall, Collegiate Farm Bureau Prexy Council Representative and is a part of Agriculture Futures of America.
Asst. Beef - Carter Sanny is a sophomore majoring in ag science with a minor in animal science from Bondurant, IA. He is the son of Eric and Stacia Sanny. Last year, he worked with a bull and has a background with 4-H and FFA, where he showed beef and swine throughout the Midwest.
Agronomy
Superintendent - Kade Wassman is the son of Karl and Karyn Wassman, is a sophomore ag business major with minors in precision ag and commodity risk management. The Ormsby, MN, native is actively involved on campus as a member of the Agronomy and Precision Ag Club, LeadState, FarmHouse Fraternity and serves as a CAFES Ambassador.
Asst. Alumni Relations
- Amelia Blakely is a freshman studying animal science with a minor in animal health. She is the daughter of Julie and Chris Blakely from Sylvania, Ohio. Her activities on campus include Dairy Club, Pre-Vet Club, Horse Club, First On Campus Ministry and she is a Bumbassador.
Beef Superintendent
- Samantha Richert is a senior majoring in ag communication with minors in animal science, marketing and digital and social media from Springfield, MN. She is the daughter of Chris and Sally Richert. She has been the livestock judging assistant and beef assistant and has shown both a bull and a goat. She is involved with KDSJ Radio, Block and Bridle and Jackrabbits Memorial.
Asst. Beef - Tessa Ellensohn is a freshman majoring in ag communication with a minor in animal science from Le Mars, Iowa. She is the Daughter of Nicki Sitzmann and Eric Ellensohn. She has competed in past FFA livestock judging competitions hosted by Little “I” with her FFA chapter. On campus, she is involved in the Swine Club, Collegiate Cattlemen’s, Block and Bridle and Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow.
Asst. Agronomy - Luke Gordon is a sophomore ag systems technology major with minors in precision ag, ag business, and drone aviation. The son of Bill and Dawn Gordon of Worthington, MN, Luke is involved in the Precision Ag and Agronomy Club, JATEC club and serves as a CAFES Ambassador. He is also a member of the drumline for the Pride of The Dakotas Marching Band.
Awards Superintendent - Matea Gordon is the daughter of Bruce and Kindra Gordon from Sturgis, SD. She is a sophomore studying business economics. Matea has been involved with Little International since her childhood, participating in the 4H and FFA contests. On campus, she is treasurer for Block and Bridle and secretary for Collegiate Farm Bureau.
Asst. Beef - Drew Stock is a sophomore majoring in animal science from Waukon, IA. He is the son of Mark and Stacy Stock. Last year, he participated in Little “I” showing a dairy heifer where he won novice fitting. On campus, he is involved in FarmHouse Fraternity and Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club. One of his hobbies is showing cattle across the U.S.
Asst. Beef - Gloria Hansen is a sophomore majoring in ag science with a minor in animal science from Austin, MN. She is the daughter of Corey and Kaye Hansen. Last year, she showed a bull for her first Little “I.” On campus, she is involved in Collegiate Cattlemen’s, Swine Club, Agronomy Club and Block and Bridle.
Booth and Banquet
SuperintendentMeta Tewes is from Jackson, MN, and is the daughter of Jeffrey and Jennifer Tewes. She is a sophomore studying ag education and animal science. On campus, Meta is involved in Sigma Alpha, Ag Ed/FFA Alumni Club and CAFES Ambassadors. She competed in Little “I” as a senior in the farm business management competition.
Asst. Booth and Banquet - Hannah Highum is a freshman daughter of Steve and Jody Highum of Peterson, MN. She is studying animal science and is involved in the Collegiate Farm Bureau, Swing Dance Club, Pre-Vet Club and Block and Bridle.
Asst. Catalog - Ella Stiefvater is the daughter of Mike and Carie Stiefvater of Salem, SD. She is a sophomore studying ag communication. On campus, Ella is involved in Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club, Collegiate Farm Bureau, CAFES Ambassadors, and CAFES Prexy Council Treasurer.
Asst. Catalog - Sydney Sheffield is a senior studying animal science on the pre-vet track. She is the daughter of Doug and Julie Sheffield of Winterset, IA. This is Sydney’s third year serving on the Little “I” Catalog Committee. Last year, she was the Champion Novice Sheep Fitter and Hardest Working Sheep Exhibitor.
Asst. Booth and Banquet - Samantha Moser is a sophomore studying animal science and ag communication with minors in agribusiness marketing with a swine science certificate. She is the daughter of Stuart and Karin Moser of Beaver Creek, MN. She is a member of the Swing Club and the Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club on campus.
Asst. Booth and Banquet - Karley Mills is a sophomore majoring in animal science from Storm Lake, Iowa. She is the daughter of Sheila Mills. On campus, she is involved in Sigma Alpha, Collegiate FFA/Ag Ed club and a CAFES One Day for State Ambassador. In her free time, she enjoys cooking and baking.
Asst. Catalog - Beth Holst is the daughter of Jary and Celene Holst of Kellogg, MN. She is majoring in animal science with minors in ag business and ag law. On campus, Beth is in the Dairy Club, Block and Bridle, Wabasha County 4-H, Wabasha County ADA, Dairy Judging, and Dairy Quiz Bowl.
Dairy Superintendent - Allison Wright is a junior with a double major in ag communication and animal science along with a minor in public relations. She is the daughter of Paul and Heather Wright from Hutchinson, MN. On campus, she is involved in the Dairy Club, Dairy Judging, Sigma Alpha Sorority and serves as a CAFES Ambassador.
Asst. Booth and Banquet - Alivia Danner is the daughter of Cory and Missy Danner of Estherville, IA. She is a sophomore animal science student with minors in agribusiness marketing and ag business. On campus, Alivia is involved in Block and Bridle and Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club.
Catalog Superintendent - Kristen Smith is a junior majoring in ag communication with minors in agribusiness marketing, ag business, animal science, advertising, and entrepreneurial studies. She is the daughter of Rob and Suzanne Smith of College Springs, IA. Involved in Sigma Alpha Sorority, Agriculture Communicators of Tomorrow, Prexy Council, CAFES Ambassador and Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club.
Asst. Catalog - Grace Sargent is the daughter of Doug and Trish Sargent of Pierre, SD. She is a freshman studying ag communication and ag leadership with minors in political science with a government advocacy certificate. On campus, she is involved in SDSU Republicans, Agriculture Communicators of Tomorrow, Collegiate Cattlemen’s, Pheasants Forever and Collegiate 4-H.
Asst. Dairy - Dillion Sparrgrove is a freshman majoring in ag business. He is the son of Ryan and Bre Sparrgrove from West Union, IA. He is involved in FFA, 4-H and enjoys working with show cattle and going to livestock shows.
Asst. Dairy - Emma Eggenberger is majoring in ag business and spanish with minors in accounting, dairy industry and ranch management. She is the daughter of Erica Cordes and Robert Eggenberger and is from Red Wing, MN. On campus, she is involved in Sigma Alpha, Alpha Zeta, Horse Club, Swine Club and Spanish Club.
Asst. Dairy Judging - Josie Sutherland is a junior majoring in dairy production with a minor in agribusiness marketing. Coming from Pipestone, MN, she is the daughter of David and Dawn Sutherland. Her hobbies include competing in dairy judging contests, Dairy Club, Collegiate FFA and MN Holstein Association.
Entertainment SuperintendentRachel Groth is a junior studying ag leadership with minors in animal science and ag marketing. She is the daughter of John and Julie Groth of Beemer, NE. She is involved in Collegiate Cattlemen’s, State-A-Thon and Swine Club.
Asst. Entertainment
- Catherine Klein is the daughter of Joe and Nicole Klein of White, SD. She is a freshman studying ag business and entrepreneurial studies. Catherine competed in the Little “I” FFA competitions in high school and is active in State-A-Thon, Swing Dance Club, ASL Club, and CEO CLUB.
Asst. Dairy - Wyatt Zehr is a sophomore majoring in dairy manufacturing. He is the son of Gary and Tricia Zehr from Pontiac, IL. He has competed in Little “I” with a dairy heifer and, on campus, is involved in the Dairy Club and FarmHouse fraternity. Off-campus, he shows dairy cattle nationally and enjoys hunting.
Dairy Products
Superintendent - Briana Maus is the daughter of Darrel and Lisa Maus of Freeport, MN. A junior dairy production major with a minor in ag business, Briana is actively involved with the Cheesebox and Dairy Fest Committee in addition to Alpha Zeta. She enjoys eating SDSU Cookies and Cream Ice Cream.
Asst. Entertainment - Elizabeth Sattler is a freshman studying ag education with a minor in music. She is the daughter of Michele Rohde and Charles Sattler of Emerson, NE. Elizabeth is involved in the Swing Dance Club, Ag Ed Club, Jacked Rabbits Lifting Club, Hall Government, The Pride of the Dakotas and Women’s Choir Choralia.
Equipment
Superintendent - Kaden Nelson is the son of Wade and Missy Nelson of New Richland, MN. He is a junior studying agriculture business with a minor in animal science. On campus, Kaden is involved in Alpha Gamma Rho, Block & Bridle and Jackrabbits Memorial.
Dairy Judging
SuperintendentMakenzie Alberts is a junior majoring in ag communication and ag leadership with minors in dairy industry, leadership and management of nonprofit organizations and public relations. She is from Pine Island, MN, and is the daughter of Eric and Angie Alberts. She grew up as the seventh generation on her family’s farm and was active in 4-H, FFA and Dance.
Asst. Dairy Products
- Jenna Doughtery is a junior animal science and ag science major with a minor in meat science, is the daughter of Mark and Christy Dougherty. Originally from Clearwater, MN, Jenna exhibited a dairy heifer at the 100th Little International. She also has competed in the RMC Quiz Bowl and is a member of the SDSU Meats Judging team.
Asst. Entertainment
- Danesa Willson is a sophomore studying ag communication with a minor in political science. She is the daughter of Rhonda Madsen and Todd Willson of Harrisburg, SD. Danes is part of Sigma Alpha and The Collegian. She enjoys hiking, reading, and traveling.
Equipment
Superintendent - Kyle Hagen is a sophomore studying ag systems technology with minors in ag business and precision ag. He is the son of Kevin and Dawn Hagen of Glencoe, MN. On campus, he is involved in the Agronomy and Precision Ag Club, Agriculture Technology & Engineering Club, Alpha Gamma Rho and is a CAFES Ambassador.
Equipment
SuperintendentEmmett Bicket is a senior studying animal science and ag business. He is the son of Tim and Stacy Bickett of Worthington, MN. On campus, he previously was the Little “I” Treasurer and Alpha Gamma Rho President. He enjoys fishing and spending time with friends and family.
Asst. Equipment - Dylan Brandt is the son of Paul and Lisa Brandt of Clear Lake, SD. He is a senior studying ag business with a minor in animal science. He is involved with Alpha Gamma Rho and was previously involved in Little “I” in the livestock transportation and range committees.
Asst. Equipment - Anna Karels is the daughter of Todd and Kristen Karels of Norwood Young America, MN. She is a senior studying precision ag with minors in agronomy and animal science. Anna has been involved in Little “I” since her freshman year at SDSU, exhibiting a dairy heifer, serving as Assistant Secretary and was the 100th Little International Secretary.
Asst. Equipment - Frank Huber is the son of Scott and Sandy Huber of Martin, SD. He is a senior studying ag systems technology with minors in precision ag and ag business. He is the recruitment chair for Alpha Gamma Rho and the treasurer for Alpha Zeta Honors Fraternity.
Asst. EquipmentSam Stahl is the son of Todd and Erica Stahl of Canton, SD. He is a junior studying animal science. On campus, Sam is a member of Alpha Gamma Rho, Alpha Zeta and Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club. He is a lifetime member of Pheasants Forever and enjoys hunting, golfing, and powerlifting.
Asst. Equipment - Nate Green is a freshman studying precision ag. He is the son of Kari and Mike Green of Monticello, MN. Nate is an Eagle Scout and loves to operate all types of heavy equipment. He enjoys collecting 1/64 farm toys.
Asst. Equipment - Alexis Rahm is the daughter of Jason and Tamara Rahm of Turton, SD. She is a junior studying animal science with a minor in ag business. Alexis has been involved with Little International for the last three years as equipment staff.
Asst. EquipmentCheylub Schmitt is the son of Lance and Joy Schmitt of Jordan, MN. He is studying ag systems technology with a minor in precision ag. Cheylub is involved in Alpha Gamma Rho and enjoys automotive restoration.
Asst. Equipment -
Rogan Bente is the son of Ashley and Jamie Bente of Lakeville, MN. He is a sophomore studying animal science. Rogan’s experience with Little International includes Lamb Lead for the Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity last year. He is part of Alpha Gamma Rho and helps with the Jackrabbit Memorial.
Asst. Equipment -
Brayden Lindman is the son of Joe and Randee Lindeman of Lake Mills, IA. He is a junior agronomy student with minors in ag business and agribusiness marketing. Brayden is involved in Alpha Gamma Rho, Agronomy and Precision Ag Club and the soil judging team.
Asst. EquipmentLillian Harpenau is a junior studying agriculture business with minors in agronomy and accounting. She is the daughter of Chad and Jill Harpenau of LeMars, IA. On campus, she is involved in Block and Bridle, Swine Club, Agriculture Communicators of Tomorrow and Agronomy and Precision Ag Club.
Management
Superintendent - Gage Gullickson is the son of Jason and Gail Gullickson, is a junior ag business major with minors in rural real estate and land valuation. Originally from Flandreau, SD, Gage enjoys exhibiting livestock and also works as an auctioneer.
Asst. Farm Business Management - Emily Robbins is the daughter of Dan and Susan Robbins of Elkton, SD. She is a freshman ag business major with a minor in marketing. Emily is involved in Block and Bridle, Agriculture Communicators of Tomorrow and serves as the 2023-24 South Dakota FFA Sentinel.
Fundraising SuperintendentElizabeth Ross is a senior double majoring in leadership and management of nonprofit organizations and communication studies. She is the daughter of Mark and Wendy Ross of Milford, NE. On campus, she is involved with the Hobo Day Committee, State-AThon, Chi Omega Sorority and University Program Council.
Asst. Fundraising - Elle Ploeger is a sophomore ag communication major with minors in professional writing, english, and animal science. She is from Pierson, IA, and is the daughter of Lonnie and Kathy Ploeger. Ella served as the 2023 Pork Queen for the Iowa Pork Producers Association, and her hobbies include showing pigs, gardening and reading.
Asst. Goat - Kacy Goehring is a freshman majoring in animal science with a minor in ranch management. She is the daughter of Scott and Kristi Goehring and is from Parkston, SD. She competed in Little I events throughout high school and now takes part in the Rodeo Club, Collegiate Cattlemen’s and Block & Bridle.
Floriculture SuperintendentMegan Linke is a senior majoring in community and public health and ag leadership with minors in health science and health education. She is the daughter of Henry and Paula Linke from Woonsocket, SD. Megan is actively involved in the Hobo Day Committee, ADiD, State-AThon and Collegiate Farm Bureau.
Asst. Fundraising -
Sydney Heins is a junior studying animal science with a biology minor, is the daughter of Kent and Michelle Heins of Wayzata, MN. This is Sydney’s second year on the Fundraising committee. In addition to serving on staff, she is also involved with Sigma Alpha. In her free time, she enjoys reading and showing Hereford cattle.
Goat Superintedent - Megan Silbaugh is a sophomore majoring in ag business and animal science with a minor in agribusiness marketing. She is from Lyle, MN, and is the daughter of
Paul and Sara Silbaugh. In her free time, she enjoys working out and teaching dance.
Asst. Goat - Lilli Steeke is a freshman majoring in ag communication and ag leadership with a minor in digital and social media. She is the daughter of Trevor and Misty Steeke and is from Rhame, ND. On campus, she is involved in Block & Bridle, Farm Bureau, and Collegiate Cattlemen’s.
Asst. Floriculture - Allison Britton is from Indianola, IA, is the daughter of Angela Adams & Jim Britton. A sophomore ag education major, she is involved in Alpha Xi Delta, Concert Choir, Ag Ed/FFA Alumni Club, and AFA. Allison is a returning Little I staff member for her second year.
Asst. FundraisingAubie Hartman is a sophomore elementary education major from Akron, IA. She is the daughter of Luke and Mindy Hartman. This is her second year serving on the Fundraising committee and she is also involved with Sigma Alpha and State-AThon on campus.
Asst. Goat - Taylor Cattin is a sophomore majoring in ag business with a double minor in animal science and agribusiness marketing. She is the daughter of Jordan and Nicole Cattin and is from Dutton, MT. On campus, she is involved in Block & Bridle, Collegiate 4-H as well as showing.
Historian Superintendent - Reilly McConnel is a senior political science major with minors in legal studies, ag business, philosophy, and history. She is from Balaton, MN, and is the daughter of Tom and Kelly McConnell. This is her second year on the Historian Committee, and she has also previously exhibited beef in Little “I”.
Asst. Historian - Isabella Radunich is a sophomore animal science major with an equine studies minor, and is from San Francisco, CA. She is the daughter of Gary and Alicia Radunich. Her previous Little “I” involvement includes showing a horse in the 100th. On campus, Isabella is involved with the Pre-Vet Club, Horse Club and the Honors College.
Asst. Horse - Ella Feldman is a sophomore majoring in ag education and Spanish. She is the daughter of Matt and Chris Feldman and is from Northfield, MN. On campus, she is involved in the Agronomy and Precision Ag Club and AgEd and FFA Alumni. She also is involved in Oasis and is a volunteer at Gracepoint church.
Asst. Horse JudgingAnna Moser is a junior majoring in animal science with a pre-vet emphasis with a minor in equine studies. She is the daughter of Deon Moser and Milissa Wolf and is from Aberdeen, SD. Her experience with Little “I” includes exibiting a horse, where she was selected as reserve champion in showmanship. On campus, she is involved in Sigma Alpha, Alpha Zeta and the Pre-Vet Club.
Asst. Lamb LeadLindsey Schmoll is a freshman majoring in precision ag. She is the daughter of Kevin and Stacy Schmoll and is from Wausau, WI. On campus, she is involved in Block and Bridle and works at the SDSU Sheep Research and Training Unit. She also enjoys showing cattle and sheep at the state and national levels.
Horse Superintendent - Mercades Schueler is a senior majoring in ag business with minors in ranch management and ag business marketing. She is the daughter of Brian and Kristine Schueler and is from Willmar, MN. She was the 99th Little I Reserve Champion for the horse show and is involved in Collegiate Farm Bureau, Sigma Alpha Sorority and enjoys working with horses.
Asst. Horse - Sophia Standing is a freshman majoring in ag leadership with a minor in digital and social media. She is the daughter of Tanja Sigurdson of Lake Crystal, MN. Her involvement in Little “I” during high school helped her in choosing to attend SDSU.
Asst. Horse Judging - Brett Roberts is a sophomore from Mineral Point, WI, and is the son of Gary and Julie Roberts. He is majoring in animal science and minoring in ag business. He is involved in Collegiate Cattlemen’s and enjoys farming and hunting.
Asst. Judging Coordinator - Hunter Eide is a senior majoring in human biology and a minor in chemistry. He is the son of Shon and Gerri Ann Eide from Gettysburg, SD. On campus he is involved in State a Thon, Van D. and Barbara B. Fishback Honors College Student and Knights of Columbus.
Asst. Horse - Michael Tauer is a junior majoring in ag systems technology and ag business. He is the son of Jeff and Kris Tauer and is from Morgan, MN. He is involved in Collegiate Farm Bureau and is the assistant trainer for Dustin Freiheit Performance Horses and travels the country to shows throughout the year.
Horse Judging Superintendent - Grace Kock is a senior majoring in animal science with a minor in equine studies. She is the daughter of Larry and Kim Kock and is from Lennox, SD. On campus, she is involved in the Swine Club, Horticulture Club and Admissions Ambassador.
Lamb Lead Superintendent - Lucia Chamberlain is a senior with a major in ag business. She is the daughter of Jeff and Casey Chamberlain and is from Hastings, MN. She was previously the 100th Little I Lamb Lead Assistant and is currently involved in Sigma Alpha, Agronomy and Precision Ag Club along with Dairy Club.
Asst. Judging Coordinator - Kaylee Steele is a sophomore majoring in ag education with minors in agronomy and animal science. She is the daughter of Ryan and Kari Steele from Utica, MN. She takes part in Swine Club, Sigma Alpha Sorority and enjoys showing pigs.
Asst. Judging Coordinator - Lauren Verlinde is a senior majoring in ag communications with minors in ag business and ag marketing. She is the daughter of Ryan and Marla Verlinde and is from Tracy, MN. Her experience with Little I includes two years as a beef assistant. On campus, she is involved in Block and Bridle, State a Thon, and the MN State Beef Committee.
Asst. Livestock Judging - Dani Warner is the daughter of Mike and Carie Warner. The Worland, WY, native is a senior animal science major with a pre-veterinary focus and a minor in ag business. On campus, she is involved in the Jackrabbit Memorial executive committee, Block and Bridle marshall officer, Alpha Zeta and the livestock judging team.
Livestock Transporation
Superintendent - Bryce Adrian is a senior precision ag major with a minor in agronomy from Mountain Lake, MN. He is the son of Jonathan and Brenda Adrian. He showed a pig at his first Little “I” and this is his second year on the Livestock Transportation Committee. He’s involved with FarmHouse Fraternity, Prexy Council Exec team, Agronomy and Precision Ag Club, and JATEC.
Asst. Livestock
Transportation - Tyler Andersen is a sophomore majoring in agronomy and precision ag from South Sioux City, NE. He is the son of Tim and Holly Anderson. On campus, he is involved in the FarmHouse Fraternity, Agronomy and Precision Ag Club, Swine Club. He enjoys working on the family farm, fishing and hunting.
Livestock Judging Superintendent - Haley Van Nurden is the daughter of Paul and Pauline Van Nurden and is from Sunburg, MN. She is a junior majoring in ag business and minoring in agribusiness marketing and commodity risk management. On campus, she is involved in Swine Club and the Navigators.
Asst. Livestock Judging -
Annie Reinke is a senior ag communication major with a minor in digital media. A native of Olney, TX, Annie is the daughter of Becky Whitmire and Troy Reinke and an avid livestock enthusiast both raising and exhibiting Simmental cattle. She exhibited a bull at the 100th Little International, was a member of the livestock judging team and is involved in Block and Bridle.
Asst. Livestock
Transportation - Cole Bauer is a sophomore majoring in animal science from Brownton, MN. He is the son of Chris and Kristie Bauer. On campus, he is involved in the Pre-Vet Club, Fish and Wildlife Club and FarmHouse Fraternity.
Machinery Sales
Superintendent -
Branstyn Peterson is the son of Daryl & Marilee Peterson of Gibbon, MN. He is a senior ag economics major with a minor in commodity risk management. Branstyn is involved with FarmHouse Fraternity. In his free time, he enjoys reading, listening to music and podcasts, watching the NFL, playing sports, showing beef cattle, and spending time with friends.
Asst. Livestock Judging - Dellana Muck is a sophomore majoring in agronomy. The daughter of Dale and Suzette Muck of Caledonia, IL, and is actively involved at SDSU through Sigma Alpha and Agronomy Club. She enjoys running, livestock judging, showing Hereford cattle and spending time with friends and family.
Asst. Livestock Judging - Jennifer Hoelscher is a senior majoring in ag business with a minor in ag marketing. She is the daughter of Vic and Karen Hoelscher from Eden, NY. She is a member of the livestock judging team and Block and Bridle.
Asst. Livestock
TransportationDylan Zellmann is a junior majoring in civil engineering from Young America, MN. He is the son of David and Denise Zellman. In Little “I” he showed a dairy heifer two years ago and a horse last year. On campus, he is involved in the American Society of Civil Engineers, the concrete canoe team, and FarmHouse Fraternity.
Asst. Machinery Sales - Kristen Wieman is originally from Marion, SD, and is a junior ag business major with minors in land valuation and rural real estate. She is involved in the FIRE club, Women In Business club, Collegiate Cattleman’s Club and works as a tutor for microeconomics.
Meat Products SuperintendentCharlee Petersen is the daughter of Bart Petersen and Amy Dietich, and is originally from Moville, Iowa. She is a junior ag science major with minors in agribusiness, animal science, food safety and meat science. She is involved in the Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club, SDSU StateA-Thon and Sigma Alpha.
Asst. Meats Judging - Emma Reicks is the daughter of Lance and Joan Reicks of Palmer, Iowa. She is a junior animal science major on the pre-veterinary track. Emma is also involved with the pre-vet club on campus.
Asst. Meat ProductsLauren Ballard is the daughter of Michelle and Shawn Ballard of Waiteville, WV, is a sophomore animal science major with minors in animal health, chemistry, and equine studies. Lauren is actively involved in Sigma Alpha, Swine Club, Pre-Vet Club and serves as a CAFES Ambassador.
Asst. Meats JudgingKansas Kroll of Andover, SD, is the daughter of Craig and Lisa Kroll. She is a sophomore ag science major with minors in animal science, meat science and agribusiness marketing. Throughout her time in high school, she competed at Little “I.” Outside of school, Kansas enjoys hanging out with family and friends and working on the family farm.
Asst. Meida - Mallory Drake is the daughter of Dana and Jill Drake and is a sophomore ag business major with a minor in ag marketing. Originally from Comfrey, MN, Mallory is involved with Block & Bridle and Swine Club on campus. Off-campus, she enjoys showing cattle and swine as well as spending time with friends and family.
Asst. Milk Quality and Products Judging - Hayley Daubert is a sophomore majoring in dairy manufacturing with a minor in health science and biology. She is the daughter of Jeremy and Rebecca Daubert from Dayton, Vergina. On campus, she is involved in the Swing Dancing Club, Dairy Club, EMS Club and the 2023 South Dakota Dairy Ambassador.
Asst. Meida - Merissa Meyer is a freshman ag communication major with minors in digital and social media, marketing, and film studies. Originally from Morristown, SD, she is the daughter of Mark and Tera Meyer. On campus, she is involved with ACT and Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club. In her free time, she enjoys shooting photography and being involved with FFA.
Natural Resources
Superintendent - Thea Klarenbeek of Tea, SD, is a junior wildlife and fisheries sciences major with a minor in rangeland ecology and management. The daughter of Brad and April Klarenbeek, she is involved on campus as a member of the American Fisheries Society Club. Outside of school, Thea enjoys fishing, hunting, hanging out with friends and family, and riding and training horses.
Meats Judging Superintendent - Ty Skartvedt from Radcliffe, Iowa, he is the son of Paul and Shannon Skartvedt. A junior animal science major with minors in ag business and meat science, Ty is involved in the Collegiate Cattleman’s Club, Swine Club, Block and Bridle, Inner Varsity small group and Oasis leadership.
Asst. Meida - Eleanor Wehseler is a sophomore ag communication and public relations double major with a minor in professional writing. She is the daughter of Richard and Nancy Wehseler of Spicer, MN. On campus, Eleanor serves as an Admissions Ambassador and is a member of ACT.
Milk Quality and Products Judging Superintendent - Brooke Moorse is a sophomore majoring in ag education and minoring in dairy industry. She is the daughter of Greg and Becky Moorse and is from Minneota, MN. She enjoys being part of the SDSU Dairy Club as well as showing registered dairy goats and working on her family’s dairy farm.
Asst. Natural Resources
- Carson Gunnerson is a sophomore ag systems technology major from Peterson, IA. He is the son of Norm and Liza Gunnerson, and enjoyed attending Little I as a high school student. He is a member of FarmHouse Fraternity and enjoys hunting and fishing in his free time.
Nursery Landscape Superintendent - Dustin Kohn is the son of Gerard and Donna Kohn, is a senior majoring in ag leadership and horticulture with a minor in agronomy. Originally from Cherokee, IA, Dustin is part of the Horticulture and Urban Ag Club and Alpha Zeta. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time in his garden and helping out with his family’s cow-calf and sheep operation.
Asst. Photography
- Jaleigh Halstead is a freshman ag communication major with minors in animal science and graphic web design. Originally from Wisner, NE, she is the daughter of Travis and Heidi Hallsted. On campus, she is involved with Sigma Alpha and Block & Bridle. Jaleigh additionally owns a photography business and enjoys showing cattle and pigs.
Poultry Superintendent
- Hadley Stiefvater is a senior double majoring in animal science and ag leadership with minors in agribusiness law and ag business. Originally from Salem, South Dakota, she is the daughter of Dr. Mike and Carie Stiefvater. This is Hadley’s fourth year serving as a Little “I” staff member, in addition to also being involved with Collegiate Cattlemen’s, Ag Ed/FFA Alumni Club and serving as a CAFES Ambassador.
Range SuperintendentMegan Sanders of Oral, SD, is the daughter of Carl and Kari Sanders. The sophomore ag business major with minors in animal science, agribusiness marketing, land valuation & rural real estate is active on campus through the Collegiate Cattleman’s Club and serving as the CAFES Prexy Council secretary.
Asst. Nursery Landscape
- Megan Stiefvater is from Salem, SD, and is the daughter of Kurt and Kathy Stiefvater. A sophomore ag leadership and ag science double major with minors in ag business and animal science. She is involved in Agriculture Communicators of Tomorrow, FFA Alumni/Ag Ed Club and serves as CAFES Ambassador.
Asst. Photography
- Magen Tol is the daughter of Paul and Janel Tol, is a junior ag communication major from Canby, MN. Magen is also the owner of Photos by Magen, serves as a full-time photographer for Focus Marketing Group and is the president of the Minnesota Simmental Association. When she is not taking photos, Magen enjoys showing and clipping cattle.
Asst. Poultry - Madison Hofer is a junior animal science major with a minor in animal health. She is from Freeman, SD and is the daughter of Wayne and Kristi Hofer. On campus, she is a member of the Pre-Vet Club, HCSO, and Alpha Zeta. Madison also enjoys showing sheep, goats, and chickens, as well as going golfing and cheering on the Kansas City Chiefs.
Asst. Range - Tyler Rasmussen is a junior student majoring in ag business with minors in pre-law and rural real estate and land valuation. The son of Troy and Shannon Rasmussen of Brookings, SD, Tyler’s involvement includes the Collegiate Cattleman’s Club, Students’ Association and Alpha Gamma Rho.
Photography Superintendent - Sarah Sergeant is a senior ag communication major with a minor in advertising. She is the daughter of Curt and Karen Seargent of Lebo, KS. On campus, she is a member of the SDSU Livestock Judging Team and serves as the secretary of Block & Bridle. Sarah is also the owner and operator of S2 Photography.
Asst. Photography
- Ryan Braniff is a freshman ag communication student with minors in animal science and graphic design and is the daughter of K.C. and Carrie Braniff of Tekamah, NE. On campus, she is involved with ACT and Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club, as well as being involved with the Nebraska Cattlemen’s Association and American Hereford Association.
Asst. Poultry - Aubrey Van Briesen is a junior double majoring in ag science and ag leadership with minors in ag business and animal science. She is the daughter of Craig and Jessica Van Briesen of Boyden, IA. This is Audrey’s second year on the Poultry committee, and she has also exhibited a goat and pig in Little “I”. She is also involved with Block & Bridle, Jackrabbits Memorial and Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club.
Risk Management
SuperintendentKarmen Sperr is a senior majoring in ag communication and ag leadership with minors in animal science, ag business, and public relations. She is the daughter of Duane and Lori Sperr of Donnelly, MN. Her involvement includes Sigma Alpha, Alpha Zeta, Swine Club, and serving as a CAFES Ambassador.
Asst. Risk Management - Blazden Mueller of Big Lake, MN, is a sophomore majoring in animal science pre-vet with a minor in animal health and chemistry. She is the daughter of Phil Mueller and Shamba Schmidt. On campus, she is involved with Sigma Alpha, Swine Club, Pre-Vet Club and Collegiate Cattlemen’s.
Asst. Scoring and Tabulations - Abigail Morse is a sophomore animal science major with a minor in ag business and is the daughter of John and Kristi Morse. She is originally from Madison, SD. She is also involved on campus with Block & Bridle, Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club, Alpha Zeta and the Honors College.
Asst. Sheep - Caleb McGregor is a sophomore majoring in agronomy along with agriculture biosystem engineering. He is the son of Shane and Jessica McGregor and is from Newell, SD. On campus, he is involved in the Collegiate Farm Bureau, FarmHouse, Collegiate Cattlemen’s, Agronomy and Precision Ag Club.
Silent Auction SuperintendentJaylynn Frandrup is a senior ag business major with minors in commodity risk management and equine studies. She is the daughter of Jay and Janet Frandrup of Hastings, MN. This is Jaylynn’s fourth year serving on the Silent Auction committee, in addition to having shown beef, dairy and horses in Little “I”.
Scoring and Tabulations Superintendent - Emily Sindt is a junior ag education major from Everly, IA. She is the daughter of Allen and Robin Sindt. Emily has previously served on staff as superintendent of the Antique Tractor Show and is also involved on campus with the Ag Ed/FFA Alumni Club, Country Swing Dance Club, Sigma Alpha, Alpha Zeta and Agronomy and Precision Ag Club.
Asst. Scoring and Tabulations - Cayleigh Reed is a sophomore animal science major with a minor in equine studies. She is originally from Piedmont, SD, and is the daughter of Craig Reed and Shelly Walz. Cayleigh has been competing in the livestock judging event since being an FFA member in high school. On campus, she is also active with Sigma Alpha and Horse Club.
Asst. Sheep - Kayleen Kulas is the daughter of Jon and Amy Kulas and is from Houston, MN. She has a major in animal science with an emphasis in pre-vet. She is involved in Block and Bridle, Swine Club, Collegiate Farm Bureau and enjoys showing sheep and pigs throughout the summers.
Asst. Silent Auction - Kassidy Roseberry of Cody, Nebraska, is a freshman Animal Science major with a minor in animal health. She is the daughter of Mark and Leslie Roseberry. On campus, she is also involved with the Ag Ed/ FFA Alumni Club. Kassidy enjoys fishing, riding horses, and golfing.
Asst. Scoring and Tabulations - Riley Hetzel is a sophomore civil engineering major. She is the daughter of Dallas and Caroline Hetzel of Austin, MN. This is Riley’s second year on the Scoring and Tabulations Committee, and she is also involved with SDSU’s ASCE chapter, Dairy Club and Agronomy and Precision Ag Club.
Sheep Superintendent - Wesley Siira is a sophomore with a double major in animal science and ag education. He is the son of Andy and Emily Siira and is from Brandon, MN. On campus, he is involved in the FarmHouse Fraternity, Students Association and works at the sheep research unit.
Asst. Sheep - Raesa Zelinsky is a freshman with a double major in animal science and ag education. She is the daughter of Rob and Christy Zelinsky from Brookings, South Dakota. Since she was a young 4-H member, she has been coming to Little “I” to compete in livestock judging.
Soils Judging Superintendent - Garrett Neill is a freshman agronomy major with a minor in precision ag, and is the son of Brad and Jessica Neill. He is from Elkton, SD, and is involved with Agronomy and Precision Ag Club and enjoys playing sports, video games and hunting.
Asst. Soils Judging - Elias Kuehn is a sophomore ag systems technology major with a minor in precision ag. He is the son of Scott and Carla Kuehn of Plato, MN. Elias is also a member of FarmHouse on campus, and in his free time, he enjoys golf and hunting.
Asst. Sponsorship/ Mailing/Addresses
- Mason Grams is a freshman animal science major from Buffalo Lake, Minnesota. He is the son of Kyle and Jill Grams. On campus, Mason is involved with the Swine Club, Dairy Club, Pre-Vet Club and Ag Ed/FFA Alumni Club. In his free time he enjoys, showing pigs at stock shows, spending a day in the barn and spending time with friends.
Asst. Swine - Jacob Chapman is a senior majoring in animal science with a minor in meat science. He is the son of Jeff and Marge Chapman and is from Torrington, WY. On campus, he is involved in Collegiate Cattlemen’s and Block and Bridle.
Vet Science Superintendent - Grace Britton is the daughter of Todd and Sara Britton of Janesville, MN. The senior animal science major minors in ag business and agribusiness marketing and is involved in the Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club, Swine Club, Dairy Club, Block and Bridle, Jackrabbit Memorial Committee and an Animal Science Ambassador.
Asst. Soils JudgingTanner Mathiowetz is a sophomore ag business major with minors in land evaluation and rural real estate. Originally from Morgan, MN, he is the son of Doug and Talana Mathiowetz. On campus, he is involved with the Collegiate Farm Bureau, Snowmobile Club and AFA.
Asst. Sponsorship/ Mailing/Addresses
- Taylor Ford is a sophomore ag communication major, and is the daughter of Bobby and Angie Ford of Lake Wilson, MN. Taylor has previously served as a Livestock Judging Assistant in the 100th Little “I” and is involved with Block & Bridle and Collegiate Cattleman’s Club on campus.
Asst. Swine - Kynna Crawford is a junior majoring in biochemistry and minoring in animal science. She is the daughter of Jan and Dettra Crawford from Hugoton, KS. She has enjoyed showing swine at local, state and national levels for the last 10 years. She is active in FFA, Block and Bridle, Ag Communicators of Tomorrow and Swine Club.
Asst. Vet ScienceKatherine Moening is the daughter of Mike and Sherry Moening of Lakeville, MN. A junior animal science and ag science double major with a minor in ag business, Katherine is involved in undergraduate research focused on animal nutrition and is secretary for the Jacks for Life club.
Sponsorship/ Mailing/Addresses
Superintendent - Izzy O’Rourke is a junior ag business major with minors in animal science, ranch management, and communication studies. She is the daughter of Darren and Renae O’Rourke of Wells, MN. Izzy has previously been on staff and shown in the novice beef division. She also serves as a CAFES Ambassador and Vice President of the Swine Club.
Swine Superintendent - Brynn Lozinski is a junior majoring in animal science and a minor in meat science with a certificate in swine science. She is the daughter of Chad and Sharon Lozinski from Clara City, MN. On campus, she is involved in the Swine Club as the Public Relations officer, Sigma Alpha and Alpha Zeta Honor Society.
Asst. Swine - Alexis Steckleberg is a freshman from Blooming Prairie, MN, and is the daughter of Karl and Tricia Steckelberg. She is majoring in ag science with minors in agronomy, ag business, and animal science. She is involved in the Swine Club, Dairy Club and FFA Alumni/ Ag Ed Club.
Asst. Vet ScienceHannah Flogstad of Donnelly, MN, is a junior animal science major with a pre-veterinary focus. The daughter of Matt and Susan Flogstad is involved in the Swine Club, Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club, Pre-Vet Club and Sigma Alpha.
Wool Judging SuperintendentZachary Schoelerman is the son of Jim and Denice Schoelerman, is a senior animal science major from Everly, IA, with a strong background in the sheep industry. Zach exhibited an ewe in the experienced division. On campus, Zach is active in Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club and Pre-Vet Club.
Asst. Wool JudgingRhea Laib from Mercer, ND, is the daughter of Sheldon and Anita Laib. She is a sophomore animal science major on a pre-vet track with a minor in animal health. Rhea is actively involved in Sigma Alpha. In her free time, she enjoys putting together flower arrangements and working with animals, specifically sheep and goats.
Little “I” contestants work hard throughout the season prior to the big show grooming their animals and honoring their showmanship skills to win one of the grand champion awards.
We apologize for the incompleteness of this list. If you know any names of the past winners who are not listed, please let us know.
2023
High Point Freshman: Carter Howell
High Point Upperclassman: Emily Nold
Grand Champion Round Robin: Makayla Nelson
Reserve Champion Round Robin: Emily Nold
2022
High Point Freshman: Mitchell Vander Wal
High Point Upperclassman: Isaac Berg
Grand Champion Round Robin: Clay Sundberg
Reserve Champion Round Robin: Kaden Nelson
2021
High Point Freshman: Emily Nold
High Point Upperclassman: Adam Bierstedt
Grand Champion Round Robin: Ryan Franz
Reserve Champion Round Robin: Adam Bierstedt
2020
Canceled due to COVID-19 pandemic and campus closure
2019
Grand Champion Showmanship, Jeremiah Johnson
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Cole Jackson
High Point Upperclassman, Maggie Post
High Point Freshman, Nathan Linke
2018
Grand Champion Showmanship, Tyler Myers
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Adam Bierstedt
High Point Upperclassman, Andy Socha
High Point Freshman, Aaron Linke
2017
Grand Champion Showmanship, Dallis VanderWal
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Lacey Schmitz
High Point Upperclassman, Brady Wulf
High Point Freshman, Kalyn Naatz
2016
Grand Champion Showmanship, Brand Weidert
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Tyler Jensen
High Point Upperclassman, Kaley Nolz
2015
Grand Champion Showmanship, Andrew Berg
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Kaitlyn Kline
High Point Upperclassman, Tyler Jensen
High Point Freshman, Andrew Berg
2014
Grand Champion Showmanship, Jacob Englin
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Calli Pritchard
High Point Upperclassman, Lane Peterson
High Point Freshman, Kendra Davis
Grand Champion Showmanship, Tim Anderson
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Matt Purfeerst
High Point Upperclassman, Tim Anderson
High Point Freshman, Adam Krause
2012
Grand Champion Showmanship, Jason May
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Ashley Beer
High Point Upperclassman, Jay Wolff
High Point Freshman, John Weber
Grand Champion Showmanship, Kyle Sommers
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Sara Sample
High Point Upperclassman, Brett Tostensen
High Point Freshman, D.J. Buseman
Grand Champion Showmanship, Lauren Wheeting
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Kyle Sommers
High Point Upperclassman, Trent Kubik
High Point Freshman, Kalen Manthei
2009
Grand Champion Showmanship, Caleb Englin
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Colton Buus
High Point Upperclassman, Caleb Englin
High Point Freshman, Trent Kubik
2008
Grand Champion Showmanship, Tyler Fruechte
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Caleb Englin
High Point Upperclassman, Amanda Nolz
High Point Freshman, Tyler Fruechte
2007
Grand Champion Showmanship, Justin Fruechte
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Caleb Englin
High Point Upperclassman, Arne Harstad
High Point Freshman, Amanda Nolz
2006
Grand Champion Showmanship, Katie Wirt
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Joe Donnelly
High Point Upperclassman, Keith Larson
High Point Freshman, Melissa Goetz
2005
Grand Champion Showmanship, Steven Muller
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Katie Wirt
High Point Upperclassman, Nicole Potter
High Point Freshman, Keith Larsen
2004
Grand Champion Showmanship, Lindsey Reister
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Justin Fruechte
High Point Upperclassman, Travis Reith
High Point Freshman, Justin Fruechte
2003
Grand Champion Showmanship, Ben Olsen
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Ted Norling
High Point Upperclassman, Brian Fruetche
High Point Freshman, Jared Knock
2002
Grand Champion Showmanship, Sarah Wirt
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Kyle Caskey
High Point Upperclassman, Erik Risa
High Point Freshman, Kyle Caskey
2001
Grand Champion Showmanship, Jeff DeRouchey
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Mike Schmidt
High Point Upperclassman, Travis Hoffman
High Point Freshman, Clint Gherke
2000
Grand Champion Showmanship, Janna Johnke
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Stephen Thiesen
High Point Upperclassman, Pam Hanson
High Point Freshman, Travis Hoffman
1999
Grand Champion Showmanship, Adam Wirt
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Stacy Insley
High Point Upperclassman, Aaron Insley
High Point Freshman, Pam Hanson
1998
Grand Champion Showmanship, Jeanne Johnke
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Curtis Alexander
High Point Upperclassman, Stephen Thiesen
High Point Freshman, Tim Vanderham
1997
Grand Champion Showmanship, Stacy Franz
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Dan Nelson
High Point Upperclassman, Heather Bruner
High Point Freshman, Aaron Insley
1996
Grand Champion Showmanship, Chris Effling
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Stacy Insley
High Point Upperclassman, Chris Effling
High Point Freshman, Matt Bruner
Grand Champion Showmanship, Carie Dressen
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Joel DeRouchey
High Point Upperclassman, Erin Pettigrew
High Point Freshman, Mark Beitelspacher
Grand Champion Showmanship, Jon DeRouchey
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Kristi Wager
High Point Upperclassman, Reid Holverson
High Point Freshman, Joel DeRouchey
1993
Grand Champion Showmanship, Sarah Muller
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Karen Rentschler
High Point Upperclassman, James Murphy
High Point Freshman, Ryan Wagner
Grand Champion Showmanship, Darcy Franz
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Rod Geppert
High Point Upperclassman, Bob Scanlan
High Point Freshman—Reid Holverson
1991
Grand Champion Showmanship, Dan Kohls
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Don Sutera
High Point Upperclassman, Brian Thiesen
High Point Freshman, Kristy Strasburg
1990
Grand Champion Showmanship, Todd Franz
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Michael Stiefvater
High Point Upperclassman, Kenny Thiesen
High Point Freshman, Chuck Ringkob
1989
Grand Champion Showmanship, Meg Benda
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Joey Effling
High Point Upperclassman, Jon Rentschler
High Point Freshman, Nicole Sittner
1988
Grand Champion Showmanship, Kevin Hoff
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Joey Effling
High Point Upperclassman, Kevin Hoff
High Point Freshman, David Schriever
1987
Grand Champion Showmanship, Darrel Rennick
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Duane Wulf
High Point Upperclassman, Cathy Wolles
High Point Freshman, Brad Hillman
1986
Grand Champion Showmanship, Alan Eikmeier
Reserve Champion Showmanship, John Buchholz
High Point Upperclassman, Roland Van Der Werff
High Point Freshman, Ann Marie Rice
1985
Grand Champion Showmanship, Bret Healy
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Jeff DeVries
High Point Upperclassman, Barry Bruner
High Point Freshman, Dan Berg
1983
Grand Champion Showmanship, Deb Stade
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Paul Rentschler
High Point Upperclassman, Bed Stade
High Point Freshman, Brenda Pankonin
1982
Grand Champion Showmanship, Mark Leddy
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Mike Stade
High Point Upperclassman, Jackie Benson
High Point Freshman, Mike Stade
1981
Grand Champion Showmanship, Dan Rentschler
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Matt Waller
High Point Upperclassman, Dan Rentschler
High Point Freshman, Greg Harder
1980
Grand Champion Showmanship, Lynette Jauert
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Bret Oekle
High Point Upperclassman, Lynette Jauert
High Point Freshman, Paul Rentschler
1979
Grand Champion Showmanship, Dave Sweeney
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Warren Drews
High Point Upperclassman, Dave Sweeney
High Point Freshman, Wayne Rickard
1978
Grand Champion Showmanship, Dan Lewis
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Calvin Kramer
High Point Upperclassman, Dan Lewis
High Point Freshman, Roger Leitheiser
1977
Grand Champion Showmanship, Steve Pomerenke
1976
Grand Champion Showmanship, Dave Wilson
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Randy Wirt
1975
Grand Champion Showmanship, Mike Sweeney
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Gary Schwartz
1974
Grand Champion Showmanship, Miles DeJong
High Point Upperclassman, Berry Krueger
High Point Freshman, Terry Beastrom
1973
Grand Champion Showmanship, Dale Werning
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Mike Brink
High Point Upperclassman, Dale Werning
High Point Freshman, Miles DeJong
1972
Grand Champion Showmanship, Terry Jaschke
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Dale Werning
High Point Upperclassman, Tom Scott
High Point Freshman, Mark Varilek
1971
Grand Champion Showmanship, Kathy Norman
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Reid Merrill
1970
Grand Champion Showmanship, Eldon Wilson
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Dave Steen
1969
Grand Champion Showmanship, Ron Stee
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Dan Leo
High Point Upperclassman, Steven Tofteland
High Point Freshman, Reid Merrill
1968
Grand Champion Showmanship, Larry Miller
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Daryl Goodroad
High Point Upperclassman, Gary Bruns
High Point Freshman, Larry Miller
1967
Grand Champion Showmanship, Larry Miller
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Gary Bruns
High Point Upperclassman, Jerry Ketterling
High Point Freshman, Bill Bruns
1966
Grand Champion Showmanship, Frank Schwartz
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Lee Leiferman
1965
Grand Champion Showmanship, Robert Osborne
1964
Grand Champion Showmanship, Rich VanZee
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Robert Johnson
1963
Grand Champion Showmanship, James Bush
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Richard VanZee
1962
Grand Champion Showmanship, Larry Ridinger
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Howard Hillman
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Walt Wosje
1961
Grand Champion Showmanship, Gary TeStroete
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Larry Wright
1960
Grand Champion Showmanship, Jerry Fitzgerald
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Larry Munger
1959
Grand Champion Showmanship, Roger Hunsley
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Marion Fitzgerald
1958
Grand Champion Showmanship, Jim Leafsteadt
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Jack Duxbury
1957
Grand Champion Showmanship, Clark Anderton
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Lloyd Hardy
1956
Grand Champion Showmanship, Chuck Claussen
1955
Grand Champion Showmanship, Glen Eikmeier
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Bob Christensen
1954
Grand Champion Showmanship, Darwin Stolte
1953
Grand Champion Showmanship, Richard Petterson
1952
Grand Champion Showmanship, Lowell Eikmeier
Grand Champion Showmanship, John Gibson
1951
Grand Champion Showmanship, Lowell Eikmeier
Grand Champion Showmanship, John Gross
1948
Dairy, Reuben Peterson
Beef, Myron Gauger
Horse, Helen Altfillisch
1947
Dairy, Max Oviat
Beef, David Craford
Horse, Carl Ryther
Swine, Gerhardt Schaal
1946
Kenneth Lounsbery
1942
Dairy, Kenneth Gross
1941
Dairy, George Leidheiser
Beef, Robert Dailey (Fitting and Showmanship Champion)
Horse, Milton Trask (Showmanship Champion and Freshman Plaque Winner)
Swine, Ray Larson
Sheep, Lyle Johnson
1940
Dairy, Lloyd Shinnick
Beef, Vernon Welch
Horse, Merrill Gunderson (Best Aggie Award)
Swine, Gerald Pietz (School of Agriculture boy)
Sheep, Robert Dailey (Best Freshman)
1939
Dairy, Milford Vrooman
Beef, Clark W. McCone
Horse, Rayburn Butrum
Swine, Stanley Gilman
Sheep, Harlan Olson
1938
Horse, Keith Swanson
Sheep, Doyle Barton
1937
Beef Cattle Fitting and Showmanship Champion, Ray Lein
Little International is excited to share the results of the sixth Annual Little “I” Photo Contest!
Open to all SDSU students, entries were required to be the original work of the student taken within the past year.
Five categories were selected, and students were allowed to submit up to two photos per category.
Categories included animals, nature/landscapes, black and white, motion/action and people. All entries remained anonymous during judging and winners were chosen by a judge appointed by the 100th Little International Photography Committee. Photo submissions were judged on artistic expression, creativity, originality and image quality.
Thank you to all students who participated in this year’s photo contest!
By: Megan Sanders
By: McKenzie Widman
1st Place - “Vast Teams”
By: Grady O’Neill
2nd Place - “Bubbles”
By: Sam Kett
3rd Place - “Eye-To-Eye”
By: Hannah Wilhelm
O R Y A N I M A L S
A T A G O R Y
1st Place - “Calm Before The Storm”
By: Merissa Meyer
2nd Place - “Splash”
By: Sam Kett
3rd Place - “God’s Glory Shines Bright”
By:
Zoey Schentzel
N A T U R E & L A N D S C A P E
R Y
1st Place - “Kickoff”
By: McKenzie Widman
2nd Place - “Elle Jo”
By: Kacy Goehring
3rd Place - “In the Claw of Chores”
By: Katelyn Winberg
E
1st Place - “Hands on Havoc”
By: Zoey Schentzel
2nd Place - “Dancing with Flags” By: Katelyn Winberg
3rd Place - “Chest Bump” By: McKenzie Widman M O T I O N & A C T I O N C A T A G O R Y
A T A
1st Place - “The Red Truck”
By: Megan Sanders
2nd Place - “Rail Ties”
By: Grady O’Neill
3rd Place - “The Team” By: Grady O’Neill
O R Y B L A C K & W H I T E
Preparing students for careers in agriculture and natural resources while building life skills is the primary objective of the South Dakota State University Range Judging team.
The 2024 team is comprised of Elise Anderson of Miles City, MT; Nick Busse of St. Paul, NE; Annie Feden of Papillion, NE; Allie Fischer of Watertown, SD; Tyler Geltmacher of Bushnell, IL; Alex Medvec of Richfield, MN; Kaitlyn Preszler of Roscoe, SD and John Sump of Lincoln, NE. Graduate student Parker Witt, a master’s student in the NRM department also served as assistant coach. The team’s advisor is Lora Perkins, associate professor in the Department of Natural Resource Management and the Department of Agronomy, Horticulture, and Plant Science.
“The range team is a great opportunity to network with people from all over the country, gain new knowledge, and share your passion for rangeland management with others,” Preszler said.
As a student chapter of the Society for Range Management (SRM), they are able to compete in an international range judging competition featuring 50 teams from the western United States, Mexico, and Canada. In February the SDSU Range Judging team placed sixth in the Undergraduate Range Management Exam (URME) facilitated by SRM in Sparks, NV. The URME measures students’ general knowledge of rangelands, interpretive graph reading, and stocking rate calculations. There is also another contest hosted by the SRM that includes identifying 100 plants by their scientific name which the team has competed in previously.
“The competition itself is definitely a challenge, but it’s always a good challenge,” Medvec added. “I myself have definitely gained a much better appreciation for all of the professionals within the rangeland management career, and it has been good to meet so many of them.”
As with any competition, there are moments that the team was put to the test but the conference itself provided even more
professional growth opportunities for team members.
“My experience was amazing. I got to hear talks from a wide range of topics given by experts in their field,” Feden said. “Sam Fuhlendorf is a pretty well-known name in rangeland management and fire ecology, and listening to him present his research was amazing.”
Feden also explained that the trip to the five-day conference allowed students to connect with professionals in their respective career fields. One of her favorite parts of the event was the panel highlighting women in the field, where they discussed their research, prospectuses, and struggles related to their career.
To prepare for the competition, the team met once a week to practice and participated in RANGE 400, a one-credit class offered in the spring and fall which was a required course for all team members. During the typically hour-long practices, students had the opportunity to learn about a variety of range topics as well as hone their plant identification skills.
Range Club and the Range Judging team work hand-in-hand to provide students with hands-on learning opportunities and real-world skills applicable to all areas of agriculture and natural resource career fields.
“I joined mostly for the fact that it gets you involved in a group of like-minded people focusing on conserving something that is near and dear to all our hearts,” Medvec said. “It is amazing seeing so many people come together to support and learn about range.”
Interested students should reach out to Lora Perkins to join the class and begin practicing with the team. The 2025 SRM Range Judging Competition will be held in Spokane, WA.
Written by Ella Stiefvater
The SDSU Academic Quadrathlon team with their certificates from left to right include: Zachary Schoelerman, Kyerra Carter, Hunter Haberman, and Derrick Goldammer
Four South Dakota State University Animal Science students traveled to Madison, Wisconsin, to participate in the American Society of Animal Science Midwest Section Academic Quadrathlon, held on March 12 and 13, 2023.
The 2023 team’s participants included Kyerra Carter of Starbuck, MN; Derrick Goldammer of Mitchell, SD; Hunter Haberman of Olivet, SD; and Zachary Schoelerman of Every, IA. Aidan Friesen, a member of the 2022 Academic Quadrathlon team, coached the team.
An internal SDSU competition was held within the Department of Animal Science, which consisted of 20 teams, to qualify SDSU to represent the Midwest Section Academic Quadrathlon.
The Academic Quadrathlon has four components: a laboratory practical, a written exam, a quiz bowl, and an oral presentation.
“It’s an opportunity for students to show off their animal science knowledge,” said Michael Gonda, professor and coordinator of the 2023 SDSU Academic Quadrathlon. “Students also get to travel and compete against teams from across the midwest, and it looks good on a resume!”
In the laboratory practicum, the team demonstrates its ability to perform physical skills. Each station lasts 15 to 20 minutes and involves the entire team. The team works together on
challenges relating to a specific species, such as beef or swine, or a disciplinary area, such as nutrition or meats.
For the written exam portion of the quadrathlon, students answer questions about any area related to animal production and products. The team works together to complete the exam in 60 minutes, dividing questions as they see fit.
In the oral presentation, students choose from a list of topics related to animal agriculture and are given 60 minutes to prepare the presentation.
In the quiz bowl section, the team answers questions on any topic that relates to animal agriculture that can be answered in a short period of time. Each round is made up of “toss-up” questions, and after the series of “toss-up” questions, teams can earn the chance to get extra points on a bonus question. The “toss-up” questions must be answered individually, while the team can confer together on the bonus questions.
“I enjoyed competing in the Academic Quadrathlon because it was not only challenging but it combined learning with a competition,” says team member Derrick Goldammer. “It allowed us to compete against other top students from various schools. It is a great way to represent SDSU academically across the nation.”
This year’s team performed the best at the Midwest Academic Quadrathlon in SDSU history. Placing second in the lab practical and third in the written, the team took home third place overall.
“The third place showing was an incredibly strong performance by our SDSU Academic Quadrathlon team, and I am incredibly proud of what they have accomplished,” says Dr. Gonda.
Written by Sydney Sheffield
The Little “I” supporter sponsorship program continues to grow with the support of corporate donations. These funds help finance Little International activities such as awards, scholarships and other expenses incurred from organizing and running Little “I”. We want to give these sponsors a sincere THANK YOU for their generous donations for the 101st Little International:
Premier ($5,000+)
Agtegra Cooperative
SoDak Labs, Inc
Elite ($2,000)
Alpha Gamma Rho
FarmHouse Fraternity
Mark Leddy
PIPESTONE System Services LLC
Platinum ($1,000)
Berg Livestock
Hadrick Ranch/Vanguard Hospitality
Gold ($750)
DeSmet Farm Mutual Insurance
First Bank and Trust
Form-A-Feed Inc
Renovo Seed
SD Pork Producers Council
Valley Queen Cheese
Silver ($500)
605 Sires + Donors LLC
Blair Brothers Angus
Compeer Financial
Crystal Valley
Dakotaland Feeds LLC
Farm Credit Services of America
Kelley Bean Co.
New Fashion Pork
BTW Holding
Brad and Meg Freking
New Vision Co-Op
Rembrant Foods
Rockdale Shorthorns
SD Soybean Research and Promotion Council
SDSU Bull Sale
Sigma Alpha Sorority
Wright Stock Farm
Seaboard Triumph Foods
Bronze ($250)
4/0 Blume Ranch
A1 Development
Beef Bucks, Inc
Bruce and Kim Paterson
Christensen Farms
Dean and Pauline Vander Wal
Earlybird Feed and Fertlizer
Hoffman Herefords
Horizon View Farms LLC
Hurley & Associates
JPJ Enterprises, Inc
Kari O’Neill
Keith and Kristin Koerselman
Kirk Schaunaman
Prairie View Veterinary Service
Par 5 Cattle Company
SD Shorthorn Association
Stock Show Bedding
Smithfield Foods
South Dakota Cattlewomen’s Auxiliary
State Bank of Candler
Sudenga Industries
Thyen Farms
Verlinde Farms
Volga Ag Center
Windy Ridge Veterinary Clinic
Zehrview Farms
Bryce and Mary Healy - Manager Award
Adam and Taylor Krause - Assistant Manager Award
Joshua and Abbie Cribbs - Beef Team Fitting Contest
Dorn Severton - Dairy Hardest Worker
TexKota Panel and Gate - Goat Hardest Worker
Bill and Dawn Taylor - Horse Hardest Worker
Marlin and Donna Berg Family - Sheep and Lamb Lead Hardest Worker
Eric and Maddie Kokanson - Swine Hardest Worker
Dr. Barry Dunn - High Point Freshman
Wirt Farms - High Point Upperclassman
Bryan D. Goettsch - Honored Agriculturalist
Rosie Nold - Pete Prichert Award
Mark Leddy - Champion Round Robin Showman
Berry and Karen Kerkaert - Reserve Champion Round Robin
Showman
Andrew and Lisa Jenson
Bonnie and Wade Risse
Harpenau’s Channel Seed
Chris and Julie Blakely
Dawn Nagel
Ehrenberg Farms, Inc
Emmett Whempner Enterprise
Gullickson Family Livestock
Hub City Livestock Auction
Jay Wolff
Jon and Amy Kulas
Minnesota Pork Board
Richland State Bank
SDSU Swine Club
Levi Whempner
Steve and Jody Highum
Susan Vander Wal
Valley Ag Supply, Inc
KCountry 102.3
KSDJ 90.7
Ag Week
Clark County Courier
Kamlin County Republic