Lauren Weishaar Executive Committee Editor
Kristen Smith Catalog Superintendent
Grace Sargent, Ella Stiefvater, Emma Heiden, Makenzie Alberts Catalog Committee
Jenna Batka, Jaleigh Hallsted, Kaci Bradshaw, Ava Schoenfeld Photography Committee
Kristen Smith Cover Designer
Welcome to the 102nd Little International at South Dakota State University!
We are once again gathered to celebrate what is undeniably the greatest event of the year. This event represents the culmination of eight months of dedication and hard work by all 160 members of our staff. Each year, we witness rigorous competition and the creation of lifelong memories among participants. I am thrilled to welcome you to the Animal Science Arena, the cherished home of Little International.
Little International provides an opportunity for high school students to get involved, travel, and compete alongside their peers. This event serves as a platform for outstanding competition where future leaders excel in all aspects. I look forward to seeing the new friendships formed and memories created this year.
This year’s slogan, “Pride in the Past, Power in the Present,” holds a profound significance to me. Little International, fondly known as “Little I,” has been a part of SDSU’s campus for 102 years—a legacy built through the tireless efforts of countless individuals united by a common goal: to create a competitive and interactive environment. We remain steadfast in this mission, continuously striving to make improvements and introduce innovative ideas that improve the largest two-day agricultural expo in the nation for both competitors and community members.
None of this would be possible without the unwavering commitment of our staff members. Their dedication, countless hours of effort, and sleepless nights have brought the 102nd Little International to life. This team truly exemplifies the best of what SDSU has to offer.
I would also like to extend my deepest gratitude to our sponsors. Your dedication and support make this event a reality. You will find recognition of these outstanding community members and industry leaders throughout our catalog, banners, and advertisements. Please join me in thanking them for their contributions.
Additionally, I must recognize our advisors, Dr. Rosie Nold and Tommy Norman, for their guidance and support. They have equipped us with the resources necessary to achieve and surpass our goals. I am equally grateful for our alumni, whose legacy continues to inspire us. I eagerly anticipate joining their ranks one day and experiencing Little International from the stands.
As my tenure as the 102nd Little International Manager draws to a close, I am excited to pass the torch to Cassidy Strommen, the 103rd Little International Manager. Cassidy’s unwavering drive and passion will undoubtedly propel her to lead with excellence and ensure the continued success of this cherished event.
Once again, welcome to the 102nd Little International. Thank you for being part of this incredible tradition.
For 102 years, SDSU students have planned the largest student-run twoday livestock exposition.
The iconic red barn and green chips are a testament to a tradition over a century old.
“Pride in the Past, Power in the Present” is this year’s theme, honoring tradition while focusing on the present.
Scrolling through past managers, I realized how many have impacted and been impacted by this organization. 102 years of memories and tradition is no small feat, something we should all be proud of as we look toward today’s event and the future.
This year’s event wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of 160 staff members. For months, these “Cream of the Crop” students have devoted countless hours outside their studies to ensure the 102nd would be the best, and for that, I’m truly grateful. Their support and determination elevate this event to its current caliber.
When I came to SDSU, I was most excited about Little “I”. As a North Dakota gal, I was nervous about finding my place at an out-of-state college. Little International brought me lifelong friends and solidified my love for the school and its unique experiences. Opportunities to grow leadership, make connections, learn hands-on, and advocate for agriculture are unmatched, and Little “I” plays a significant role in that for students inside and outside CAFES. I’m excited to witness camaraderie in the arena as memories and friendships are made this year.
Little International has also impacted thousands of FFA members. Last year, we hosted over 2,200 students from five states competing in 17 CDE events during Little “I” on Friday. These competitions introduce younger students to the Little “I” tradition, SDSU’s campus, and faculty.
As a past CDE contestant, I know how vital these events are to agricultural learning in high school. We’re honored to provide competitive extracurricular experiences, growing future Ag leaders and, hopefully, future Jackrabbits.
This event couldn’t happen without the expertise and guidance of our advisors, Dr. Rosie Nold and Tommy Norman. Thank you for your knowledge and dedication to this organization’s success and agriculture’s future.
Whether you are an alumni, supporter, parent or student, there is truly something for everyone to enjoy at the 102nd Little International.
As the CAFES Advocate, I work to advocate for the students of the College of Agriculture Food and Environmental Sciences (CAFES). It is events and organizations such as Little International that truly show the talent and strong character of SDSU students!
Thank you to our generous sponsors who support Little “I” year after year. Your contributions are invaluable, and we appreciate everything you do. You can find our sponsors throughout this catalog, the arena, and on social media.
When I started with Little International, my family joked there wasn’t anything I hadn’t done as a participant. Over the years, I’ve competed in showmanship, fitting, lamb lead, high point contests, and served on staff and the executive team.
This year, we added a new staff committee to fulfill our mission of impacting those outside agriculture. The Ag in the Classroom committee, resurrected after 13 years, has taught many elementary students where their food comes from. To learn more, visit page 58.
In closing, I’d like to recognize Teigen Hadrick, the 102nd Little “I” manager. Teigen’s determination made him a great leader, and for that, we’re all grateful. Thank you, Teigen, for your time and dedication to continuing Little International’s tradition. It was an honor to work alongside you.
Thank you all for your continued support! Welcome to the 102nd Little International at SDSU.
Exhibitors have been hard at work halter breaking cattle, driving hogs, carding sheep, leading goats, training horses and helping fellow exhibitors. I personally enjoy watching students work day in and day out the weeks leading up to Little “I” to prepare their animals - although the best part is seeing all students from all different backgrounds and experiences come together and form friendships. New skills are gained, but the most important aspect is the lifelong friends and connections made.
Along with that, let’s not forget about our team of 160 hardworking staff members that make Little “I” possible! Truly a student run event: from the setup of the iconic red barn, transportation of livestock, facilitation of FFA contests
and everything in between. SDSU students have put their true heart and effort into this event. I couldn’t be prouder to be a part of an event that will continue to leave a lasting legacy at SDSU.
Throughout the weekend, I hope everyone has the chance to reflect on Little International’s historic past but also look to the present where our students have and will continue to accomplish great things!
Dellana Muck 2024-2024 CAFES Advocate
wednesday « March 26
5:30 p.m. Goat Team Fitting Contest
7:00 p.m. Beef Team Fitting Contest
Friday « March 28
9:30 a.m. Novice Heifer Fitting, Prelims
9:50 a.m. Experienced Bull Fitting, Prelims
10:10 a.m. Novice Horse Fitting, Prelims
10:30 a.m. Experienced Horse Fitting, Prelims
10:50 a.m. Novice Sheep Fitting, Prelims
11:10 a.m. Experience Sheep Fitting, Prelims
11:30 a.m. Novice Goat Fitting, Prelims
11:50 a.m. Experienced Goat Fitting, Prelims
12:10 p.m. Novice Dairy Fitting, Prelims
12:30 p.m. Experienced Dairy Fitting, Prelims Break
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 Horse Fitting Finals
6:10 p.m. Horse Fitting, Finals
6:30 p.m. Novice Sheep Fitting, Finals
6:50 p.m. Sheep Fitting, Finals
7:10 p.m. Novice Goat Fitting, Finals
7:30 p.m. Goat Fitting, Finals
7:50 p.m. Lamb Lead, Prelims
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
9:30 p.m. Experienced Swine Showmanship Prelims I
9:40 p.m. Experienced Swine Showmanship Prelims II
SATURDAY « March 29
9:00 a.m. Experienced Swine Showmanship, Prelims I
9:20 a.m. Experienced Swine Showmanship, Prelims II
9:40 a.m. Novice Swine Showmanship, Prelims I
10:00 a.m. Novice Swine Showmanship, Prelims II
10:20 a.m. Experienced Sheep Showmanship, Prelims
10:45 a.m. Novice Sheep Showmanship, Finals
11:10 a.m. Experienced Horse Showmanship, Prelims
11:35 p.m. Novice Horse Showmanship, Finals
12:00 p.m. Experienced Beef Showmanship, Prelims
12:25 p.m. Novice Beef Showmanship, Finals
12:50 p.m. Experienced Goat Showmanship, Prelims 1:15 p.m. Novice Goat Showmanship, Finals
1:40 p.m. Novice Swine Showmanship, Finals
2:05 p.m. Experienced Dairy Showmanship, Prelims
2:30 p.m. Novice Dairy Showmanship, Finals
2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Red Barn Reception, SD Agricultural Heritage Museum
5:00 p.m. Opening Ceremonies
5:15 p.m. Beef Showmanship Finals
5:35 p.m. Goat Showmanship, Finals
5:55 p.m. Sheep Showmanship, Finals
6:15 p.m. Little International Auction
6:40 p.m. Lamb Lead, Finals
7:20 p.m. Horse Showmanship, Finals
7:40 p.m. Dairy Showmanship, 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. Concert - Dacotah Bank Center
*Times are subject to change
We are thrilled to welcome you to the 102nd Little “I” at SDSU!
Behind the scenes, our executive team and 160 staff members have been working hard to make this event a success.
To learn more about the team making it all happen, visit page 66.
Best wishes,
Welcome to the 102nd 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 160 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.
It is my pleasure to welcome you to the 102nd Little International, “Pride in the Past, Power in the Present.” I always look forward to attending Little International. It is a wonderful way to start the spring season after a long winter. Little International provides our students with a tremendous opportunity to gain valuable experience which will serve them well throughout their career while having fun in the process. Students in leadership roles hone their skills in communication, delegation, and trouble shooting. Committee members have the opportunity to further their skills in working as a member of a team to accomplish a common goal. The culmination each year is the successful production of the largest student-run livestock exposition in the nation.
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.
Dr. Barry H. Dunn
South Dakota State University President
What I enjoy most about Little “I” is the coming together of future students, current students, and alumni. I also enjoy celebrating our livestock industry which includes the annual recognition of an “Honored Agriculturist.” In addition to alumni and friends, we also welcome nearly 2,000 high school students from South Dakota and the region to campus on the first day of Little I. These youth participate in judging contests organized by industrious 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.
This year’s theme, “Pride in the Past, Power in the Present” shows true through 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 immensely proud of their efforts.
I look forward to celebrating this event with our students, alumni, and friends.
Dr. Joseph Cassady
South Dakota Corn Endowed Dean of the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences
Welcome to Little International at South Dakota State University!
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 SDSU alumni, creating memories for thousands of alumni, faculty, friends and students. This years theme “Pride in the Past, Power in the Present” pays homage to that storied history and provides a vision for the future.
This year we embark on the 102nd Little International event where we welcome students and alumni to celebrate agriculture. Agriculture holds a special place in the in the history of South Dakota and South Dakota State University. Continuing on the traditions with the 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 with 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.
Mark Sandager ’11 Development Director CAFES, SDSU Foundation
TJ Bigge
Tucker “TJ” Bigge originates from an acreage outside of Parkston, South Dakota. Between his time showing sheep in 4-H, judging milk and cheese in FFA, and giving public speeches in both organizations, TJ had a diverse Ag experience from a young age.
Bigge graduated from Parkston High School in 2018, after which he attended South Dakota State University. During his time at SDSU, he was able to be a part of many different clubs and organizations, including the 20182019 SD State FFA Officer Team, the Ag Ed/FFA Alumni Club, the Hobo Day Committee, and Little International. He was also an integral part of his intramural dodge ball team, providing valuable cover to his teammates from incoming projectiles.
Living the dream near Ward, SD, is where Crissa Fruechte is raising lots of kids, sheep, cattle, and feed. Crissa’s husband, Justin, grew up in the area on a diversified livestock operation. Crissa grew up near Webster, SD. They met and married as students at SDSU, where they both majored in agricultural programs. In the early 2000’s, they bought an abandoned farm site from Justin’s dad, Mike, that had been in the family and owned by his Grandpa David.
Bigge had the opportunity to wear several hats within the Little “I” competition. From competing in the contests as a high school and college student, to serving on the Booth and Banquet and Milk Quality and Products committees, he was fortunate to gain so many diverse experiences through the organization.
One of the reasons that Bigge enjoys Little “I” is because of the rich heritage and tradition. 102 years of Little “I” means 102 groups of students who came together to achieve something great for their peers, friends, and community. People who may not have much else in common are able to unite under their shared passion for agriculture, and contribute to the shared story of this organization.
Upon graduating from SDSU in Spring of 2022 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture Education, Bigge was hired at Madison High School in Madison, SD as the Agriculture Education Teacher and FFA Advisor.
He gets to spend his days helping his students discover and grow their own passions for agriculture, much like his own teacher, Mr. Jacob Englin, did for him. The Madison FFA chapter has enjoyed many successes during Bigge’s time there, including top 10 placings in LDE’s, CDE’s, and the State Agri-Science Fair.
In his free time, Bigge enjoys spending time with his friends and family in a variety of different settings. He is learning to cook, recently purchased a smoker, and has successfully avoided any serious kitchen-related injuries. He is able to make it back to Brookings throughout the year to support the Jackrabbit Football team, attend the Hobo Day Parade, and catch up with his friends and classmates from his time at SDSU.
Fruechte’s goal of raising a family connected to land and life was taking root. Today, Justin and Crissa run 300 Katahdin ewes and 80 Red Angus cows on their operation. The farm ground has been dedicated to growing forages or seed production crops. The main goal of the sheep operation is to sell registered seedstock but also market lamb through restaurants, like the Pheasant Restaurant and Lounge, and direct to consumers.
Seedstock is marketed through two annual production sales and live shows and sales. The cow/calf sector has been focused on breeding quality Red Angus to sell as replacement females and backgrounding the remaining calves. The couple’s philosophy with raising livestock has been to keep them grazing as many days in the year as possible and improve the quality of the soil.
Justin and Crissa work alongside their five children, Mason (15), Lily (12), Faith (9), June (7) and Wells (1). Crissa values a culture of life and wants to instill the values of strength, dignity, courage into the family. Together, the family road trips across the U.S. attending livestock shows where everyone can get involved and enjoy the competition. Crissa enjoys education- a student forever herself and also giving back as a teacher where she can.
Together, Justin and Crissa are members of the Pipestone Lamb and Wool and MN West Lamb and Wool Program. Crissa enjoys her time as a Pipestone County 4-H Club leader, 4-H livestock project bowl coach, and Ambassador advisor. FFA SAE projects and coaching various individual and team competitions are time well spent.
It is with great joy and humility that I am able to welcome you all to the 102nd Little International. This tradition is a favorite of generations of SDSU alumni. The atmosphere that is developed in the Animal Science Arena is second to none and we have the honor to soak it all in this weekend.
As we appreciate what is taking place here, lets take the time to admire all the hard work that was dedicated to this culminating event. It is not lost on me that students of diverse strengths ranging from media to contests to the arena to livestock make up this glorious staff. I would be remiss to not acknowledge the contributions that each and every staff member put forth to execute the largest two day student ran livestock exposition in the nation. We can not forget the exhibitors, faculty, sponsors and alumni who helped make this weekend possible. It truly takes a village.
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
As I look back at my years with Little International, I am overcome with the amount of relationships and memories that were made. From making friends while trying to understand how to show dairy to helping others out on what to do with a frame sheep, I am grateful to have had a part in this great organization. I am excited to watch from the stands once again. I wish good luck to all participants and congratulations to this years staff for yet another great year. Once again, welcome to the 102nd Little International.
Isaac Berg 101st Little International Manager
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
2025 Teigen Hadrick; Faulkton, SD
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.
Tommy Norman grew up showing and raising livestock where he received numerous honors at the state and national level. He now resides in Brookings, SD, where he currently serves as an Instructor & the Head Livestock Judging Team Coach. He attended South Dakota State University where he received his Bachelor’s Degree in Animal Science with Industry Specialization. During his undergrad he was part of a very competitive livestock judging team where they were named 3rd High Team at the North American International Livestock Exposition.
Norman continued his education as a Jackrabbit, achieving his Masters of Science in Ruminant Nutrition with specialization in growth physiology, while also serving as the graduate assistant livestock judging coach. Norman helped coach the Reserve National Champion Team at the North American in Louisville, KY, in 2021. His first team in his new role was 5th High Team at NAILE in 2023.
Norman finds enjoyment hosting youth development activities through numerous livestock judging contests hosted on campus, two SDSU Youth Livestock Judging Camps hosted over the summer, judging livestock shows, traveling the country with the brilliant minds he gets the pleasure to coach, and being an advisor of Little International.
...to our advisors for their time, dedication, and support of the staff, executive team, and the success of Little International.
The Beef Show features exhibitors presenting their cattle in two divisions: bulls and heifers. Preparation includes washing, blow-drying, and fitting the cattle for presentation. Exhibitors use sprays and oils to enhance hair volume and spend weeks halter-breaking, washing, and clipping their animals. After the show, cattle are washed to remove all grooming products.
The Beef Team Fitting Contest provides students the chance to work in teams of four to prepare yearling heifers from the SDSU Cow-Calf Education & Research Facility. Teams focus on breaking, clipping, and properly grooming the animals for show presentation
The Dairy Show features exhibitors presenting their cattle in two divisions: fitting and showmanship. Exhibitors halter-break, wash, and clip their cattle to highlight sharpness and angularity. During the show, animals are guided with halters at a controlled pace, and exhibitors ensure the cattle are properly posed for judging. Post-show care includes washing to remove grooming products.
The Goat Show features exhibitors presenting their goats in two divisions: fitting and showmanship. Preparation includes teaching goats to walk on a chain and brace, washing, clipping, and fitting their hair. After the show, goats are washed to remove adhesives and oils.
The Goat Team Fitting Contest allows students to work in pairs to prepare selected does for the show. Teams are responsible for breaking, clipping, and styling the animals for the contest.
The Little International Horse Show features exhibitors presenting their horses in two divisions: fitting and showmanship. Competitors prepare by training their horses in maneuvers such as backing and pivoting while also grooming, clipping, and bathing them. The fitting class evaluates grooming quality, and showmanship assesses the handler’s ability to present the horse effectively.
The Lamb Lead event allows students to compete in a multifaceted contest that includes interviews, garment construction, sheep fitting, and showmanship. Participants prepare their sheep by washing and fitting, create a garment and blanket, and present a written narrative during the event.
The Sheep Show features exhibitors presenting their ewes in two divisions: fitting and showmanship. Exhibitors fit ewes by blocking their wool and halter-breaking them to be showready. The fitting process emphasizes creating a smooth, level appearance, while showmanship highlights proper positioning without a halter.
The Swine Show features exhibitors presenting their hogs in two divisions: fitting and showmanship. Exhibitors train hogs to respond to show sticks for presentation. Preparation includes washing, clipping, and applying products to enhance the animal’s appearance.
The Ag Product Sales contest allows students to create a product brochure and presentation based on a provided product and customer profiles. Contestants are judged on their product knowledge, marketing materials, and presentation skills.
...to Country Classics Floral Shoppe of Redfield, SD and Brookings Hy-Vee Floral for helping supply the floriculture contest.
The Little International Ag Mechanics contest allows teams of four to compete in individual and group tasks. Students complete a written test, welding trial, circuit wiring, and equipment diagnostics. Teams collaborate to solve a problem as part of the competition.
The Agronomy contest allows students to identify grains, forages, and weeds, evaluate grain quality, and complete a knowledge exam on crop production and management. This contest contributes to the High Point Club Award.
The Dairy Cattle Judging Contest allows students to evaluate dairy cattle based on visual appraisal, pedigree, and sire information, gaining practical experience in dairy management.
The Dairy Products contest allows teams to create a signature ice cream flavor using a base provided by the Davis Dairy Plant. Teams supply additional ingredients while adhering to food safety guidelines. This contest contributes to the High Point Club Award.
The Farm Business Management contest allows students to demonstrate agricultural business skills through a written exam. Participants analyze business management scenarios and apply economic principles to evaluate decisions.
The Floriculture contest allows students to test their knowledge through a general knowledge exam, a floral arrangement and cost estimate, and a plant identification test.
The Horse Judging contest allows students to evaluate horses across three placing classes, answer two sets of questions, and complete a 25-question multiple-choice exam. This event contributes to the High Point Club Award.
The Livestock Judging contest allows students to evaluate beef, sheep, swine and goats by comparing, ranking and analyzing livestock. Contestants also answer questions related to the animals, with official placings provided by the SDSU Livestock Judging Team.
The Machinery Sales contest allows students to simulate the role of machinery sales professionals. Divisions include large tractor, skid loader, and farm vehicle sales, testing knowledge of machinery, operational principles, and salesmanship.
The Meat Judging contest allows students to evaluate six placing classes, answer 20 related questions, and identify 20 retail cuts. This event contributes to the High Point Club Award.
The Meat Products contest allows club teams to create and present a unique burger recipe. Teams prepare and cook their burgers, which are judged based on presentation, recipe and flavor during the “Burger Battle.”
The Milk Quality and Products contest allows students to identify milk defects, classify cheese varieties, evaluate dairy samples, and complete a dairy production and marketing exam. This event contributes to the High Point Club Award.
The Natural Resources contest allows students to complete a multiplechoice exam, solve problems, and identify specimens from six categories, including birds, mammals, fish, and plants, to promote environmental awareness.
The Nursery Landscape contest allows students to demonstrate skills in plant and equipment identification, landscape analysis, and general knowledge through a comprehensive exam. This event contributes to the High Point Club Award.
The Poultry Judging contest allows students to evaluate carcasses, grade eggs, identify poultry parts, and complete a poultry production and management exam.
The Range Plant Identification contest allows students to identify over 100 prairie grasses, shrubs, and trees. Participants classify plants by characteristics such as life span, habitat use, and palatability.
The Seed and Forage Crop Show allows students to submit crop seed and forage samples for evaluation based on quality and characteristics.
The Soils Judging contest allows students to complete a written exam and hands-on soil evaluation, identifying soil texture, color and classification. This event contributes to the High Point Club Award.
The Veterinary Science contest allows students to demonstrate knowledge of animal breeds, parasites, equipment, diseases, anatomy, nutrition, and genetics through identification, a written exam, and a math practicum. This event contributes to the High Point Club Award.
The Wool Judging contest allows collegiate students to evaluate and grade fleeces based on fineness, length, yield, and purity. This event contributes to the High Point Club Award.
The Welding Contest allows students to create metal projects using scrap materials. Designs are judged by industry professionals and the public, with top projects auctioned at Little “I.”
The High Point Club Award, now in its tenth year, is a competition for organizations within the College of Agriculture, Food, and Environmental Sciences at South Dakota State University. Participating clubs assemble teams to compete in designated Little International contests, earning points toward the prestigious High Point Club title. This year’s contests include Club Booth, Club Basket, Meat Products, Dairy Products, Lamb Lead, Meat Judging, Soils Judging, Wool Judging, Horse Judging, Milk Quality & Products, and Agronomy.
Judges:
Jake + Sammi Nikkel
Jake and Sammi Nikkel reside in Marion, SD after merging each other’s family operations and starting Schrag Nikkel Show Cattle. No strangers to the show ring, both grew up showing Shorthorns and eventually found a love of all breeds which has led over to their multi-breed production sale held each October with a focus on customer service. Jake attended Kansas State University and Sammi is an SDSU alum. Jake now runs the show cattle in both South Dakota and Kansas while Sammi manages the Sexed Semen Lab at 605 Sires. There’s nothing they love more than raising and showing high-quality cattle with their family and working with youth.
‘Great Clips’
Grace Seefeldt Lena, WI
Riley Doll New Salem, ND
Macey Filipek McClusky, ND
Kayla Vander Schaaf Chandler, MN
‘2 Teepees livestock’
Brett Roberts
Mineral Point, WI
Braden West Sheridan, WY
Drew Stock
Waukon, IA
Jack Link Knoxville, IL
‘powderful 4’
Andrew Timm Adams, MN
Dellana Muck Caledonia, IL
Ethan Rockwell Valley Center, CA
Mitchell Vanderwal Howard, SD
‘TEAM ROXY’
Luke Bjorklund Henning, MN
Tate Bergh Florence, SD
Kendra Folkerts Pipestone, MN
Shelby Greiman Goodell, IA
Grady Ruble resides in Albert Lea, MN, with his wife, Laura, and their three sons: Kit (5), Carson (2), and Callen (1). Raised in south-central Minnesota, Grady grew up immersed in the cattle industry through his family’s operation, Ruble Cattle Company. The family specializes in raising registered seedstock and show cattle, marketing them primarily to junior showmen through their annual online female sale.
Grady currently works for Purina Animal Nutrition, serving southern Minnesota. He is a graduate of South Dakota State University, where he was deeply involved in campus activities.
Grady participated in Little International, showing a bull during his freshman year and a pig as a senior. He was also highly active on the livestock judging team, contributing both as a team member and later as a coach. Little I remains one of Grady’s most cherished college experiences, providing lasting memories and reinforcing his passion for the livestock industry.
15 – Cadence Feist – Groton, SD
16 – Alyssa Launsbach – Lakeville, MN
45 – Emma Mulhern – Fountain, MN
46 – Ashlyn Kovarna – Merrill, IA
47 – Greta Wooldrik – West Point, NE
48 – Maia Bartelt – New Richland, MN
49 – Alexis Stolicker – Box Elder, SD
50 – Tia Glaus – Brookings, SD
51 – Justine Thompson – Creston, NE
52 – Pheobe-Tate Anderson – California, MD
53 – Faith Butterfass – Morris, MN
54 – Veronica Maus – Albany, MN
55 – Jonathon Peterson – Meridian, ID
57 – Beth Holst – Kellogg, MN
34 – Mitchell VanderWal – Howard, SD
35 – Cassandra Twedt – Beresford, SD
36 – Dellana Muck – Caledonia, IL
37 – Aubrey Van Briesen – Boyden, IA
38 – Cailey Sime – Milbank, SD
39 – Ashlyn Klinkner – Blue Earth, MN
40 – Abigail Nelson – Rice, MN
41 – Caleb Weyh – Summit, SD
42 – Isabela Karels – NYA, MN
43 – Britney Loerzel – Richville, MN
44 – Matalyn Martinson – Otsego, MN
Little International extends its sincere gratitude to Kevin Vander Wal, SDSU Cow-Calf Education and Research Facility Manager, for his support and assistance.
Little International would like to thank Olsen Yorkshires, Adelman Hampshires, Foster Hog Farm and Eilertson Livestock for supplying the pigs for the exhibitors to show.
Merritt O’Connor attended South Dakota State University from 2015 to 2017 after transferring from Casper College in Casper, WY. While at SDSU, O’Connor was a member of the 2016 livestock judging team and served on the executive team for the Jackrabbits Memorial Jackpot Show. He also participated in Little International, where he exhibited a goat during the first year the species was included in the event.
O’Connor is currently employed as a Livestock Analyst at Smithfield Foods in Sioux Falls, SD. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his daughter, Nora, coaching the Parker FFA livestock judging team, and volunteering with the Sioux Empire Livestock Show. Additionally, he supports friends during livestock sale seasons, enjoys cheering for the Jackrabbits and Huskers, golfing, and attending live music events.
77 – Erin Jacobson – New Richland, MN
78 – Kayla Vander Schaaf
79 – Izzy O’Rourke – Wells, MN
80 – Dani Poppler – Waverly, MN
81 – Maria Lee – Mequon, WI
82 – Avery Gregor – Jordan, MN
83 – Kendra Schipper – Ireton, IA
84 – Cindy Pohlen – Hospers, IA
85 – Gretta Larson – Lake Preston, SD
86 – Abby Sekerka – Rosholt, WI
87 – Ashley Betker – Royalton, MN
88 – Brandon Gengler – Le Mars, IA
89 – Taylor Cattin – Dutton, MT
90 – Curtis Nelsen – Mission Hill, SD
91 – Megan Christoffels – Sioux Falls, SD experienced
43 – Britney Loerzel - Richville, MN
56 – Sara Penzenstadler - Rush City, MN
58 – Danica Prins – Iona, MN
59 – Macy Sonnek – Easton, MN
60 – Anna Kragerud – Longmont, CO
61 – Paige Foster – Brookings, SD
62 – Payton Sailor – Conger, MN
63 – Tayler Franz – Bingham Lake, MN
64 – Korbin Leddy – Stockholm, SD
65 – Matt Wiebe – Bingham Lake, MN
66 – Ellen Merkouris – Albert Lea, MN
67 – Cooper McCoy – Worthington, MN
68 – Taylor Reinhard – Minot, ND
69 – Gavin Romshek – Shelby, NE
70 – Sarah Vacura – LeMars, IA
71 – Kourtney Schaff – Saint Anthony, ND
72 – Shelby Pankratz – Marion, SD
73 – Gloria Hansen – Austin, MN
74 – Blazden Mueller – Big Lake, MN
75 - Madison Simon - Preston, MN
76 - Payten Benda - Jackson, MN
us
Little International extends its sincere gratitude to Blake Johnson, SDSU Sheep Research and Teaching Unit Manager,for his support and assistance.
Todd Taylor has served as the shepherd of the University of Wisconsin-Madison Arlington Research Station Sheep Program for the past 24 years. The program primarily focuses on breeding purebred replacement stock in the Hampshire, Polypay, and Targhee breeds. Additionally, several research projects are conducted at the facility, including studies in epigenetics and animal behavior.
A key aspect of the program is the hands-on learning opportunities provided to animal science and veterinary science students. Under Taylor’s guidance, students gain practical experience during the lambing season by observing live births and assisting with the care of newborn lambs, facilitating bonding with their mothers and ensuring proper nourishment.
Taylor possesses extensive knowledge of the sheep industry, having been raised in a similar program at the University of Wyoming, where his father served as the shepherd for nearly 30 years. His expertise has led to numerous invitations to judge state fairs, sheep and wool festivals, and various county and local fairs.
Judge: rachel dahlman
Rachael Dahlman, a native of Dassel, MN, is a 2012 graduate of South Dakota State University with a degree in Agricultural Economics. Since graduation, she has held various seedrelated roles at WinField United and currently serves as a Sales Development Manager in southeastern Minnesota. In addition to her professional career, Dahlman is actively involved in youth agriculture, serving as the Minnesota State Fair 4-H Lamb Lead chair. During her time at SDSU, she enjoyed showing sheep at Little International and fondly remembers her study abroad experience in Argentina.
92 – Adrienne Edinger – Tully, NY
93 – Isabella Radunich – San Francisco, CA
94 – Olivia Hadrick – Faulkton, SD
96 – Brynn Bohlke – Mankato, MN
109 – Noah Coudron – Milroy, MN
110 – Elly Doering – Alcester, SD
113 – Megan Christoffels – Sioux Falls, SD
111 – Avery Mozak – North Sioux City, SD
112 – Abby Poull – Port Washington, WI
113 – Megan Hollingsworth – Grinnell, IA
114 – Ava Graham – Aurelia, IA
115 – McKenna Henrich – Akron, IA
34 – Mitchell VanderWal – Howard, SD
97 – Clare Rennie – Blooming Prairie, MN
98 – Gabby Fink – Plankinton, SD
99 – Chevelle Spaulding – Whiting, IA
100 – Andrea Miller – Gayville, SD
101 – Wesley Siira – Brandon, MN
102 – Emma Heine – Vermillion, SD
103 – Andrew Revier – Olivia, MN
104 – Elias Kuehn – Plato, MN
105 – Lilly Ostlie – Benson, MN
106 – Laura Brinkman – Goodhue, MN
107 – Tyler Siira – Brandon, MN
108 – Sydney Skalsky – Taylor, NE
34 – Mitchell VanderWal – Howard, SD
92 – Adrienne Edinger – Tully, NY
93 – Isabella Radunich – San Francisco, CA
94 – Olivia Hadrick – Faulkton, SD
96 – Brynn Bohlke – Mankato, MN
97 – Clare Rennie – Blooming Prairie, MN
98 – Gabby Fink – Plankinton, SD
99 – Chevelle Spaulding – Whiting, IA
100 – Andrea Miller – Gayville, SD
101 – Wesley Siira – Brandon, MN
102 – Emma Heine – Vermillion, SD
103 – Andrew Revier – Olivia, MN
104 – Elias Kuehn – Plato, MN
Little International would like to thank Cole and Katie Hoyer and Byron and Mary Beth Hendrickson for supplying the heifers for the exhibitors to show!
Nathan Johnson, originally from Oakland, NE, now resides in Parker, SD, with his wife, Daisy, their sixyear-old son, Henry, and three-yearold daughter, Sadie. He works as a territory sales representative for NK Seeds, covering southeast SD.
Nathan graduated from SDSU in 2009 with a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Business. During his college years, he traveled across the upper Midwest, clipping and fitting show and sale cattle.
Currently, Nathan and his wife breed and market Holstein index cattle in partnership with Jim and Cheryl Vierhout under the SDPH prefix. Their goals include placing bulls and heifers into stud breeding programs and marketing genetics to Holstein breeders. Additionally, they breed and exhibit Holsteins, Brown Swiss, and Jerseys at the state and national levels, earning several AllAmerican nominations.
While at SDSU, Nathan competed in Little International all four years and served on staff for the dairy judging contest. Participating in Little I was a highlight of his college career, as he made lasting memories with friends while preparing for the competition.
104 – Elias Kuehn – Plato, MN
148 – Jake Druley – Young America, MN
149 – Matthew Ridgeway – Damascus, MD
150 – Danette Leenderts – Hills, MN
151 – Chiara Thompson – Forest City, IA
152 – Paul Ernst – Omaha, NE
153 – Kaitlyn Crowley – Decatur, IL
154 – Gower Shaw – Howick, South Africa
155 – Jodyn Bawek – Doland, SD
156 – Delana Harmon – Pender, NE
157 – Kendall Olawsky – Corsica, SD
158 – Rhea Laib – Mercer, ND
136 – Jenna VanHolland - Garretson, SD
137 – Alexis Groetsch - Sauk Centre, MN
138 – Sophie Klehr - Henderson, MN
139 – Emily Peters - Sauk Centre, MN
140 – Anna Johnson - Aberdeen, SD
141 – Natalie Haase - Parker, SD
142 – Quinlyn Dykstra - Mattawan, MI
143 – Allie Luedert - Pender, NE
144 – Vanessa Gonzalez - Owatonna, MN
145 – Gracie Sellnar - Sleepy Eye, MN
146 – Makenzie Alberts - Pine Island, MN
147 – Wyatt Glessing - Waverly, MN
The future of agriculture is our future, too. That’s why we’re working with nearly 9,000 young and beginning producers – providing guidance, scholarships, youth programs and more.
Agriculture Works Here.® fcsamerica.com/ybs
Little International would like to thank KG Boer Goats and CW Show Goats for supplying the goats for the exhibitors to show!
Ryan Miller was born and raised near Winfred, SD. Together with his wife, Sara, and their three sons, Lane (21), Tate (18), and Gabe (15), he owns and operates Miller Cattle Company, a livestock and crop operation. Their operation includes 170 cows, primarily Angus and Simmental. From this herd, they host an annual private treaty bull sale in partnership with Callies Angus near Howard, SD.
The Miller family has a long-standing tradition of showing cattle regionally and, in recent years, has also enjoyed exhibiting goats. Ryan takes great pride in these family endeavors, which reflect their commitment to agriculture and livestock production.
Ryan is honored to be selected as a judge for the prestigious Little “I” event. He looks forward to collaborating with the event coordinators and working with the exhibitors to contribute to the success of this celebrated occasion.
Team fitting Judge: ryan miller
‘Luke & Jerry’
Luke Bjorklund Henning, MN
Jerson Kopka Bird Island, MN
‘Twine & Dine’
Peyton Bischoff Huron, SD
Wyatt Nelson Pierson, IA
‘Clip Gods’
Braeden Stadler
Brookings, SD
Chase Sypersma Sioux City, IA
‘Tate & Kylie’
Tate Bergh Florence, SD
Kylie Beare Estelline, SD
‘Spray & Pray’
Carter Kruse Cherokee, IA
Jackson Harman Hull, IA
’kid u not’
Beth Holst Kellogg, MN
Wesley Siira Brandon, MN
‘goat masters’
Owen Thomforde Zumbrota, MN
James Poppen Willow Lake, SD
‘moped gang’
Kasey Krogh
Sergeant Bluff, IA
Matthew Wiebe Bingham Lake, MN
18 – Katelyn Zeug - Lucan, MN
19 – Grayson Hetland - Mitchell, SD
20 – Jenna Neyers - Glencoe, MN
21 – Ava Bouwman - Sioux Falls, SD
22 – Mica Theesfeld - Emmetsburg, IA
23 – Desirae Domonoske - Elysian, MN
24 – Elizabeth Coudron - Milroy, MN
25 – Isabelle Olson - Mosinee, WI
26 – Amelie Blakely - Sylvania, OH
27 – Evan Melby - Owatonna, MN
28 – Olivia Bork - Valley Springs, SD
29 – Shannon Soost - Nicollet, MN
30 – Trinity Back - Blair, NE
31 – Izzie Bergstrom - Elkhart, IA
32 – Madelyn Caulfield - Bradley, SD
33 – Madeline Boie - Pine Island, MN
1 – Eleanor Carvis - Hudson, CO
2 – Connor Singrey - Mitchell, SD
3 – Kaylyn Marvan - Hutchinson, MN
4 – McKenna Wright - Hutchinson, MN
5 – Ryann Grussing - Kimball, SD
6 – Kendra Hanson - Morristown, MN
7 – Will Allis - Easton, MN
8 – Brett Schiefelbein - Kimball, MN
9 – Molly Hulshof - Ireton, IA
11 – Jaydee Bremer - Ocheyedan, IA
12 – Jenna Dougherty - Clearwater, MN
13 – Annabelle Hlavac - Scotland, SD
14 – Izzy Jansen - Omaha, NE
15 – Cadence Feist - Groton, SD
16 – Alyssa Launsbach - Lakeville, MN
17 – Payton Meyer - Alcester, SD
Little International extends its sincere gratitude to Jennifer Eide,
Jean Hommel-Kessler was raised on a livestock and dairy farm, where she developed a passion for horses and ponies. Her involvement in 4-H and FFA fostered her interest in judging and showing livestock. She has fond memories of competing in the horse, livestock, meats, and dairy divisions at the Little “I” during her high school years.
Affer graduating high school, Jean trained and showed horses professionally at various farms across the United States and Germany before returning to her roots in South Dakota. Her role in managing horse shows at the South Dakota State Fair rekindled her love for judging horses. With the guidance of several mentors, she pursued a career judging horses at the national level.
Currently, Jean holds judging cards with eight national breed associations, having maintained some of these certifications for over 25 years. She continues to manage horse shows and volunteer with the South Dakota 4-H Horse Show Committee. She divides her time among clerking at a local livestock sale barn, judging horse shows, and assisting her husband on their commercial cow/calf operation in Mina, SD.
Jean and her husband manage a Quarter Horse herd of over 30 broodmares and four stallions, focusing on reining and working cow horse bloodlines, with a preference for dun and buckskin colors. Their annual production sale in October keeps them busy with the horse side of the ranch, while selling calves during the winter highlights the cattle side. Although she no longer prepares horses for the show ring, Jean enjoys watching skilled horses and exhibitors compete. She extends her best wishes to all competitors.
125 – Kyla Hubbling - Pipestone, MN
126 – Makayla Fuoss - Armour, SD
127 – Madison Hofer - Freeman, SD
128 – Sage Mortenson - Groton, SD
129 – Braylee Wolff - Westfield, WI
130 – Graham Honetschlager - Farmington, MN
131 – Cole Bauer - Brownton, MN
132 – Lainna Duncan - Mason City, IA
133 – Cassandra Rohrbaugh - Sioux City, IA
134 – Casey Koenig - Wayne, NE
116 – Ethan Becker - Hartington, NE
117 – Kortney O’Day - Woodbine, IA
118 – Elizabeth Will - Estelline, SD
119 – Grace Hansen - Ponca, NE
120 – Cathy Bauer - Summit, SD
121 – Robbyn Feucht - Larchwood, IA
122 – Mackenzie Steinbrecher - Yankton, SD
123 – Ava Schanzenbach - Selby, SD
124 – Halle Swenson - Harrisburg, SD
125 – Ava McIntire - Thor, IA
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 & 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 multi-disciplinary 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 specializations in Industry Relations, Production Management 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, Lamb and Wool Club, Meat Science Club, Block and Bridle and Horse Club.
The Department of Dairy and Food Science has been an industryleading 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 department restarted the Dairy Judging Team to provide students with opportunities 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 high-quality 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 PreVeterinary Club.
The Agricultural Leadership, Education, Communications and Sciences Program 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 wellrounded 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
Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow (ACT) connects students with industry professionals to develop skills in agricultural media and marketing. SDSU’s chapter, part of National ACT, hosts workshops, networking events, and participates in Hobo Day, Ag Day, and Harvest Table.
Agriculture Future of America (AFA) prepares future agricultural leaders through professionalism, entrepreneurship, and experiential learning. SDSU students engage in the AFA Leaders Conference and industryspecific Institutes nationwide.
The FFA Alumni/Ag Ed Club promotes leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education. The club supports the National FFA Organization by hosting events like the Jackrabbit Invite, a leadership development program for high school FFA members. Members also participate in the Agricultural Education RoadShow, SDSU Ag Day, National FFA Convention, South Dakota FFA Convention, and various community service projects.
The Agronomy and Precision Ag Club connects students with industry leaders to explore crop science, technology, and careers. Members participate in industry tours, campus events, and community projects like the Hobo Day Parade and Adopt-A-Highway.
Alpha Gamma Rho (AGR) fosters brotherhood and professional growth while developing future agricultural leaders. Members engage in community service and host a pancake feed supporting the Blue Jackets Bright Futures program. AGR is a key part of SDSU’s College of Agriculture, Food, and Environmental Sciences.
Alpha Zeta Honors Fraternity is a professional society for top agriculture and natural resources students, recognizing those in the top two-fifths of the College of Agriculture, Food, and Environmental Sciences. Membership is by invitation only. The fraternity connects members with industry leaders and promotes agriculture through campus and community service, including partnerships with the local food pantry and Brookings County Youth Mentoring Program.
The American Fisheries Society (AFS) supports students pursuing careers in fisheries science by providing professional development, handson experience, and networking opportunities. Members engage in public outreach and attend local, state, and national events. Open to all students interested in aquatic resources, the subunit connects them with industry professionals in fisheries and aquatic management.
JATEC brings together students from Ag and Biosystems Engineering, Agriculture Systems Technology, and Precision Agriculture to connect with industry leaders and enhance professional networking. Its largest event, an industry inspection trip, allows members to tour companies throughout the Midwest and explore career opportunities within their majors.
A student organization affiliated with the National Block and Bridle, promoting academic excellence, professionalism, and networking among animal science students. Key activities include the Harvest Table, SDSU Ag Day, and the Jackrabbits Memorial Calf Show.
Ceres Women’s Fraternity offers leadership opportunities, educational programs, and a supportive sisterhood, fostering connections among women with diverse backgrounds and career aspirations. Members engage in various events and service projects, including Highway Clean-Up, Relay for Life, Natural Tie, and Little International.
Collegiate 4-H, an extension of the national 4-H program, provides opportunities for students who were active in 4-H at the state or national level to continue their involvement in a collegiate setting. The organization connects students who share a passion for 4-H, while staying busy with events such as the National Convention, National Western Roundup, and community service activities, including making tie blankets for hospitals and cards for veterans.
Provides a community for SDSU students to explore country swing dancing. The club hosts regular dances and practice sessions to help students develop their skills.
An affiliate of the South Dakota Farm Bureau, offering SDSU students in agriculture opportunities to develop leadership skills and network with industry professionals through conferences and events.
The Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club at SDSU has quickly grown, attracting over 100 members in its first year. Dedicated to promoting the beef industry, it provides a platform for students to discuss cattle, hear from industry leaders, and expand their knowledge. Monthly meetings center around beef, and an annual spring trip offers exposure to South Dakota’s beef industry.
Dairy Club unites students passionate about the dairy industry through events like the World Dairy Expo and ADSASAD meetings. It hosts Dairy Camp for youth and funds activities through an annual cheese box fundraiser. Open to all majors, the club welcomes anyone interested in dairy.
FarmHouse Fraternity fosters intellectual, social, spiritual, and physical growth while maintaining a strong tradition of community service. Members assist with dock installations, local moves, lawn care, and alumni cattle brandings. Its largest event, “Totally Baldacious”, raises funds for a local child battling cancer and supports the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, the fraternity’s national philanthropy.
FIRE Club advances student knowledge in finance, insurance, and real estate while fostering professionalism. Open to all majors, it offers networking, industry speakers, internships, and workshops on LinkedIn etiquette, headshots, and business card creation to enhance career readiness.
The Food Science Club fosters professional development by connecting students, faculty, and industry professionals. It promotes food science through events, service projects, and fundraising efforts within SDSU and the Brookings community. Activities include social events, networking opportunities, and initiatives that make a positive impact.
The Horse Club connects students with the South Dakota equine industry, offering educational experiences and networking opportunities. It hosts guest speakers, including farriers, veterinarians, and barn managers, and organizes events such as a petting zoo, food drive, trail rides, and the Hobo Day parade. Open to all experience levels, the club focuses on learning and community.
This club provides hands-on experiences in horticulture. Members compete in the Mid-America Collegiate Horticultural Society (MACHS) contest, host a virtual competition, and participate in campus events.
Housed in the Ness School of Management and Economics, the Investment Club welcomes all majors. It features guest speakers, including financial advisors, analysts, and agricultural bankers, and hosts a trading competition on the Interactive Brokers platform with cash prizes.
The Lamb and Wool Club promotes education and networking for those interested in sheep production. Members learn about the benefits of lamb as a delicious protein and the comfort of quality wool. The club provides opportunities to expand knowledge, build relationships, and foster a deeper appreciation for the sheep industry.
The Meat Science Club enhances students’ knowledge of the meat industry through networking, leadership development, and hands-on experiences. Members engage with industry leaders, participate in meat judging, the Meat Science Quiz Bowl, and research projects.
NAMA provides professional development and networking for students passionate about agricultural marketing. Members develop marketing plans for agricultural products and compete in the annual NAMA competition against chapters across North America.
The NRLE Club enhances students’ professional development through networking, hands-on training, and guest speakers. Members explore industry topics, gain career insights, and build their resumes for future roles in natural resource law enforcement.
Supports students pursuing veterinary medicine by offering hands-on experiences, networking opportunities, and assistance with the application process. Activities include wet labs, regional veterinary school trips, and workshops with SDSU’s Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences staff.
An interdisciplinary team focused on manufacturing processes for the National Quarter Scale Competition. Members compete in tractor pulls, durability courses, and design judging, covering areas from engineering to business.
Range Club
Promotes range management through education and activities, enhancing members’ social and professional skills. Open to students interested in range management, as the South Dakota Student Chapter of the Society for Range Management.
Supports the SDSU Rodeo Team through practices, stock chores, fundraising, and event organization, including the Jackrabbit Stampede Rodeo and Hobo Day parade.
Engages students in conservation and hunting, fostering professional relationships with conservation partners. As a new chapter, students are invited to help establish its future success.
A professional agricultural sorority promoting scholarship, leadership, service, and fellowship. Members contribute to community initiatives and engage in professional development and sisterhood events.
Provides networking opportunities with industry professionals, featuring guest speakers and field trips to swine operations. Members also participate in events such as Harvest Table and Pork Classic.
Prepares members for wildlife conservation careers by providing educational and professional development opportunities. Activities include volunteer work with The Nature Conservancy, the Adopt-a-Lake program, and the South Dakota Wildlife Society’s annual meeting.
The South Dakota State University Wool Judging Team has demonstrated commendable success in competitions this year while gaining valuable industry experience. The team comprises students from various academic disciplines, including Raesa Zelinsky, Caleb Weyh, Jaydee Bremer, Carter Ross, James Poppen, Carter Kruse, Karin Sweeter, Cailey Sime, and Andrew Timm.
A wool judging contest involves evaluating six classes of breed and commercial fleeces, presenting three sets of reasons, and grading a rail of 15 fleeces. The grading process assesses fleeces based on spinning count, staple length, clean wool yield, purity, and overall character. Breed classes, including Merino, Rambouillet, Targhee, Columbia, and Corriedale, are judged for their genetic traits influencing wool quality and quantity. Commercial classes are ranked according to fleece value, considering weight, length, and cleanliness.
Beyond competitions, the team engaged in industry experiences by visiting the Center of the Nation Wool Warehouse in Belle Fourche, SD, and touring the University of Wyoming Research and Extension Center.
The team was guided by faculty coordinator Dr. Rosie Nold, animal science professor; coach Clay Schoen, a graduate student in animal science; and assistant coach Lindsey Schmoll.
“It’s been a really good group to see,” said Dr. Nold. “I really commend them for their work and for learning valuable information not just about wool, but about real-world applications and communication.”
Through competition and industry immersion, the SDSU Wool Judging Team continues to build expertise and represent the university with distinction.
“Being on the wool judging team has enhanced my public speaking skills, pushed me outside my comfort zone, and
allowed me to gain a better understanding of the sheep industry, particularly the wool sector, which I was not directly a part of,” said Raesa Zelinsky.
Written by Grace Sargent
The team participated in multiple contests, achieving notable rankings:
7220 Contest – University of Wyoming (Jan. 14, 2025)
Team Results
• 4th - Overall
• 2nd - Grading Rail
• 1st - Live Animal Evaluation
Individual Highlights Jaydee Bremer
• 4th - Reasons 5th - Placings
James Poppen
• 1st - Live Animal Evaluation
Caleb Weyh
• 8th - Overall
• 5th - Grading Rail 9th - Reasons
Carter Ross
• 5th - Grading Rail
Carter Kruse
• 7th - Reasons
National Western Stock Show – Denver, CO (Jan. 16, 2025)
Team Results
• 9th and 10th Overall
• 3rd - Handspinning Contest
Individual Highlights
Cailey Sime
• 2nd - Handspinning Contest (Tie)
Caleb Weyh
• 2nd - Handspinning Contest (Tie)
Black Hills Stock ShowRapid City, SD (Feb. 4, 2025)
Team Results
• Champion Team Overall
• Reserve Champion Team Overall
Individual Highlights
Karin Sweeter
• High Individual
Under the guidance of advisors Douglas Prairie and Brian Langum, the Quarter Scale Tractor Team shares a passion for engineering and manufacturing, working collaboratively to design and build a quarter-scale tractor for international competition. The 2023-2024 team had 30 members from diverse academic backgrounds, including agricultural and biosystems engineering, agricultural systems technology, precision agriculture, mechanical engineering, and electrical engineering.
Each year, the team competes at the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE) International Quarter-Scale Tractor Student Design Competition in Peoria, IL. The 2023 team excelled in several events, including a tractor pull, a durability bump course, and a maneuverability obstacle course. These performance tests, along with a design presentation to industry engineers, provided team members with opportunities to showcase their skills and innovation.
A notable highlight last year was adapting to a significant rule change in the competition. With the committee-mandated switch to a new engine type, the team embraced the challenge of redesigning their drivetrain, transitioning from a mechanical to a hydraulic system. This innovation highlighted the team’s adaptability and technical expertise, qualities that contributed to their championship wins in 2018, 2022, and 2023.
The team’s hard work was supported by sponsors, including Twin City Fan, Vermeer, Bobcat, Danfoss, Dakota Fluid Power,
and others. This support enabled the team to use state-of-theart equipment in the Raven Precision Agricultural Center to create their tractors.
Jaydon Estebo, the team’s president, shared, “This team teaches you skills that go beyond the classroom.” He added, “From welding and fabrication to teamwork and problem-solving, the experience prepares us for real-world engineering challenges.”
Jarret Wildman, a senior team member and agricultural systems technology major from Gustavus, OH, reflected, “Being on the team introduced me to a whole new group of people who have become some of my closest friends because I came to school knowing nobody, and Quarter Scale was a really quick and easy way to meet new people.”
Wildman also shared a memorable moment from a previous competition during his sophomore year. After countless hours spent designing and assembling the tractor, the team celebrated back-to-back championships. The awards ceremony was particularly impactful as the team collected multiple category awards before being announced as champions, making their hard work feel worthwhile.
Looking ahead, the current team remains focused on continuing its tradition of excellence while preparing for the upcoming June competition. With their commitment to innovation and teamwork, the SDSU Quarter Scale Tractor Team is excited for another year of growth and achievement.
Written by Makenzie Alberts
The South Dakota State University Range Judging Team is gearing up for another exciting year filled with competitions, learning opportunities, and leadership in rangeland management. With a strong emphasis on preparing students for careers in agriculture and natural resource management, the team exemplifies dedication, teamwork, and a passion for conserving rangelands.
This year’s team is led by President Alexandra Medvec of Richfield, MN, and Vice President John Sump of Lincoln, NE. Other members include Allison Fischer of Watertown, SD; David Morell
The South Dakota State University Crops Judging Team, led by coaches Madalyn Shires and Ciera Kotaska, included one member, Lily Green, a junior studying agronomy and precision agriculture. Over the fall semester, Lily participated in three competitions: the regional contest, Chicago Collegiate Crops Contest, and the Kansas City American Royal Crops Contest. In October 2024, SDSU had the honor of hosting the regional contest, which welcomed teams from three other universities.
Participation in collegiate crops judging provides students with the opportunity to learn essential skills such as crop identification, grain grading and seed purity. These areas of study are similar to those covered in FFA agronomy contests. Across the United States, approximately ten universities participate in various crops judging contests each year.
of Newell, SD; Annie Feden of Papillion, NE; Zane Barker of Ames, IA; Alexandra Johnson of Sergeant Bluff, IA; Sarah Hayden of Aberdeen, SD; and Nicklaus Busse of St. Paul, NE. The team is supported by two co-advisors, Dr. Lora Perkins and Dr. Sean Di Stefano, and coached by graduate student and former team member Tyler Geltmacher of Bushnell, IL.
Students on the Range Judging Team benefit from SDSU’s range management coursework and handson labs. Classes provide foundational knowledge in range management and plant identification while introducing methods to conserve and enhance ecosystems. Laboratory sessions complement classroom learning by offering practical field experience. Situated in the heart of the grassland ecosystem, SDSU provides students with a unique opportunity to connect academic learning with real-world applications.
In February, the team will attend the Society for Range Management (SRM) Conference in Spokane, WA, to compete in the Undergraduate Range Management Exam (URME) and the Range Plant Identification contest. They aim to bring a title back to SDSU and showcase the program on an international stage.
“Our biggest goal is to help promote the future of range management and help others learn about one of the most endangered ecosystems around the globe. To do this, the team wants to show everyone that the SDSU rangeland management program is among the greats.” said Medvec.
Students interested in joining the team can enroll in Range 400 or attend Range Club meetings, held every other Tuesday at 6 p.m. in SNP 102.
Written by Mallory Drake
“Much of the information covered in contests and practices is also covered in a couple of SDSU’s classes like Weed Science and Grain Grading,” said Green. The skills and knowledge gained from these contests are not only applicable in real-world settings but also directly enhance the learning experience in the classroom.
Being part of the SDSU Crops Judging Team presents many memorable opportunities. “My most memorable experience was competing in the American Royal Crops Contest in Kansas City. We toured the National Grain Center – Federal Grain Inspection Services and Bayer Crop Science, as well as met other competitors from other schools such as Kansas State, Oklahoma State, University of Minnesota Crookston, and many others,” said Green.
Written by Emma Heiden
The South Dakota State University Rodeo Team has concluded its 2024 fall season with remarkable achievements. The men’s team is currently ranked third, while the women’s team ranks fifth in the highly competitive Great Plains Region. This region comprises 15 schools and includes 280 national intercollegiate members.
Over the combined fall and spring seasons, the team competes in ten rodeos. During the fall, they competed in events hosted in River Falls, WI, North Platte, NE, Fort Dodge, IA, Dickinson, ND and Mandan, ND.
The SDSU Rodeo Team has 48 talented members who performed exceptionally well this season. They are ready to climb higher in the rankings at their final rodeo of the academic year, set for May 5–6, 2024, in Lincoln, NE.
“I am very proud that our team’s GPA is 3.0, considering the time they dedicate to animal chores, practicing, traveling, studying, and supporting various events the rodeo team is involved in,” said Ron Skovly.
Skovly, who has served as the program’s coach since 2009, is also the Great Plains Region Faculty Director and a member of the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA) national board of directors.
Looking ahead, the team is preparing to host the 69th Annual Jackrabbit Stampede at the Dacotah Bank Center. This highly anticipated event will welcome 15 regional schools to compete in Brookings, SD. Performances are scheduled for Friday, April 11, at 7:30 p.m., and Saturday, April 12, at 1:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. The SDSU community and rodeo fans alike are encouraged to attend and support the team.
Written by Emma Heiden
The SDSU Collegiate Dairy Judging Team has experienced a year of growth and success with Dr. Turner Swatz, assistant professor at South Dakota State University.
The 2023 team, comprised of Makenna Skiff, Allison Wright, Wyatt Zehr, and Briana Maus, competed at two prestigious contests: the World Dairy Expo (WDE) in Madison, WI, and the North American International Livestock Exposition (NAILE) in Louisville, KY. Highlights of their season included placing thirteenth overall at WDE and tenth overall at NAILE.
At NAILE, Makenna Skiff delivered a standout performance, earning second place in the Holstein breed category, while the team secured fifth place in the same breed.
Originally from a dairy farm in central Pennsylvania, Dr. Swartz brings a wealth of experience to the program. As a former member of the Penn State Dairy Cattle Judging Team who won a national championship, he understands the value of competitive dairy judging. Since beginning his role as coach in September 2023, he has focused on helping students hone their decisionmaking and communication skills while fostering a sense of teamwork.
Dr. Swartz recalls some of his best memories as coach while preparing the team for these contests through practice sessions on farms in Wisconsin and visits to iconic locations such as the Hoard’s Dairyman Farm and the National Dairy Shrine. These experiences provided valuable insights and created lasting memories for both the coach and the team.
Looking ahead, the program is gearing up for another exciting year. The new team, consisting of Evelyn Scheffler, Paige Hopf, Dillion Sparrgrove, and Vanessa Gonzalez, will kick off their season on January 19 at a contest in Fort Worth, TX. Dr. Swartz is optimistic about their potential and eager to see how they develop throughout the year.
“The most rewarding part of coaching is watching the team improve their skills and work together to represent SDSU with pride,” said Dr. Swartz. “This year’s team demonstrated dedication and ambition, and I look forward to seeing what the future holds for our program.”
As the SDSU Collegiate Dairy Judging Team continues to build on its achievements, the dedication of its members and the guidance of Dr. Swartz promise a bright future for the program.
Written by Makenzie Alberts
The South Dakota State University Livestock Judging Team demonstrated remarkable determination and ambition during the spring semester. Despite some members being new to the collegiate judging experience, the team successfully collaborated and visited some of the most renowned livestock operations in the nation.
The spring semester included visits to the following operations: Atkins Herefords (SD), Weber Land & Cattle (MN), RJ Cattle (SD), Justin Mogck Show Cattle (SD), Trent Rayes (OK), Baylor Bonham Show Steers (OK), Griswold Cattle (OK), Pfeiffer Goats (OK), Express Ranch (OK), Miller Southdowns (SD), CK Cattle (SD), Trent Kempker Goats (KS), Clay Elliot Sheep (OK), Magnum Feedyard (CO), Wienk Charolais (SD), Werning Cattle (SD), Rule Sheep (IA), Hild Brothers Sheep (IA), Amen Angus (CO), Lucherk Brangus (TX), V8 Ranch (TX), and BRC Brahmans (TX).
In the fall, the judging team was represented by Braden West of Sheridan, WY, and Mitchell VanderWal of Howard, SD. Together, they competed in seven national contests, preparing by visiting more than 20 producers nationwide and working with livestock of the highest quality.
The fall visits included: Walsh Cattle (WI), Geffert Show Cattle (WI), MPJ Cattle (SD), Jenson Bros (KS), Cody Cattle Company (KS), Falkenstein Goats (KS), Schrag-Nikkel Cattle (SD), Ward Brothers (MO), Brunker Cattle (KS), Begalka Livestock (SD), Bounds Goats (IL), Beckmeier Sheep (IL), PVF Angus (IL), Dameron Angus (IL), Wehmer Pigs (IN), Schroyer Sheep (OH), Forsee Southdown (KY), and Hancock Hamps (KY).
These visits provided the team with invaluable opportunities to evaluate national-quality livestock and engage with producers at their operations. The exposure to diverse livestock types and conversations with industry leaders enhanced the team’s knowledge and broadened their perspectives on livestock evaluation.
Head coach Tommy Norman and assistant coach Grace Olinger led the team throughout the season.
“Louisville would have to be my favorite contest as it’s the last time to showcase talent and reflect on it,” said Norman. “The duo of judgers had a great fall season.”
The SDSU Livestock Judging Team achieved significant success at numerous national contests, exemplifying their dedication, teamwork, and passion for livestock evaluation. Their ability to connect with producers and evaluate highquality livestock underscores the team’s commitment to excellence and serves as a testament to their role as ambassadors for SDSU.
Written by Emma Heiden
Cattlemen’s Congress
Mitchell VanderWal
• 10th High Individual - Swine
Houston Stock Show and Rodeo
Mitchell VanderWal
• 7th High Individual - Sheep & Goat
• 4th High Individual Overall
Braden West
• 13th High Individual - Cattle
• 14th High Individual - Swine
• 13th High Individual Overall
Dell ana Muck
• 2nd High Individual - Carload Contest
Team Results
10th High Team - Hill Contest
• 3rd High Team- Carload Contest
Sioux Empire Livestock Show
Mitchell VanderWal
• 13th High Individual Overall
• 10th Individual - Sheep & Goat
Iowa Beef Expo
Dell ana Muck
• 3rd High Individual Overall
San Antonio Stock Show
Mitchell VanderWal
• 8th High Individual - Swine
• 5th High Individual Overall 4th High Individual Placings
• 3rd High Individual - Cattle
Team Results
• 7th High Team - Reasons
• 10th High Team Overall
Flint Hills Livestock Judging Contest
Mitchell VanderWal 9th Overall Individual - Swine
AKSARBEN Stock Show
Mitchell VanderWal
• 10th High Individual Overall
American Royal
Braden West
• 9th High Individual - Sheep 12th High Individual Overall
North American International Livestock Exposition (NAILE)National Contest
Mitchell VanderWal
• 12th High Individual - Cattle
• 5th High Individual - Performance Cattle
• 8th All Performance Classes
True to its name, the South Dakota State University academic quadrathlon competition has four rounds of competition and immeasurable learning opportunities for students interested in animal science.
Each February, any and all SDSU students have the opportunity to compete in academic quadrathlon. The competition is created and hosted by hard-working animal science faculty and graduate students and aims to bring all facets of the livestock industry into play.
A team of four students are faced with a written exam, a hands-on lab practicum with several rotations, and a double-elimination quiz bowl. The final component is a group presentation in which teams randomly select an animal science topic, and then receive 30 minutes to prepare a powerpoint presentation.
Teams sign up in groups of four but Michael Gonda, animal science professor and one of the primary organizers of the event says diversification is key.
“You might not choose your three closest friends, but find people with different backgrounds to help you be successful,” said Gonda.
Time management is one of the many skills students can learn through the competition.
“Having fun, developing oral communication skills,” Gonda said. “Learning how to form a competitive team to meet the challenge are all things students can take away.”
Gonda said that the competition also brings students together outside of class which benefits the culture of the department.
The team who wins the local competition has the first opportunity to travel to the Midwest American Society of Animal Science to compete against other students from the Upper Midwest.
SDSU has had several top three finishes at the regional competition. The locally winning quadrathlon team in 2024 included Cante Skuya Lonehill, Rachel Coudron, Grace Klumper, and Alyssa Launsbach who regionally competed in Madison, WI. They placed third in the quiz bowl portion and finished fourth overall in the competition.
Originally from Pine Ridge, SD, Lonehill initially participated in the event for extra credit, but she returned to the competition the following year because it was a fun experience.
“This event is actually really fun. You will leave with a lot more experience than you entered with. It truly is a learning experience,”
Lonehill said. “I also think that it is an easy way to meet so many new people, even if you don’t compete at a regional level. You never know what the outcome will be if you don’t at least try.”
Lonehill, an animal science major, encourages other students to get involved with academic quadrathlon.
“It was a great way to create connections and network with other students from different colleges as well as connections within our own college.” Lonehill said. “I have met some of my long-term friends by participating in the academic quadratholon locally for the last two years.
The objective of the Midwest American Society of Animal Science is to bring together researchers in animal science. While competing is a primary focus for the students who advance, they also have the chance to experience national level studies at the conference.
“In addition to meeting other students,” Gonda said. “they’re able to see research that comes with the much larger meeting we’re apart of.”
The next quadrathlon team will represent SDSU at the regional event in Omaha, NE, on March 9-12, 2025.
Written by Ella Stiefvater
The 2024 Meat Animal Evaluation Contest, held in Laramie, WY, from April 10–12, provided a challenging and rewarding experience for participants. South Dakota State University was well-represented by a talented group of team members, including Jacob Thompson, Zachary Schoelerman, Miles Hoffman, Teigen Hadrick, Kallista Roers, Logan Schlim, Jacob Chapman, Mitchell VanderWal, and Edwin Pluimer. The competition brought together over a dozen collegiate teams from ten states, all vying for top honors in the four divisions that comprise the Meat Animal Evaluation Contest: Breeding, Market, Meats, and Communications.
Coach Tommy Norman reflected on the dedication and ambition of the participants, saying, “The team was comprised of ambitious and excellent students that were an honor to work with. Being a member of an extracurricular on top of their main job of college is a challenging task for any. However, a few students were driven to make this team a go after not having a team the prior year and helped tremendously by recruiting talented members. These students not only wanted to be there but were so open-minded to fields of knowledge they were not as experienced in. This made coaching easy, enjoyable, and memorable. I will always be thankful for my first MAEC crew.”
Coach Becca emphasized the contest’s unique challenges, stating, “The Meat Animal Evaluation contest is a unique opportunity for undergraduate students to combine both their knowledge of live animal evaluation and carcass performance and value. This contest is a ‘beast’ of a contest, and I commend those students that participated for their willingness to broaden their understanding of both live animal and carcass evaluation.”
The contest’s divisions offered students opportunities to expand their skills and knowledge in different areas of the meat animal industry:
Breeding Division: Contestants ranked breeding livestock based on phenotypic evaluation and performance value estimations, working with species such as bulls, heifers, gilts, rams, ewes, and wether dam does. Many participants gained exposure to livestock they hadn’t encountered before. Key takeaways included learning regionspecific criteria, such as assessing PAP heart scores for bulls at high altitudes, and evaluating Rambouillet rams and ewes for fleece quality, a critical aspect of western agriculture.
Market Animal Division: This division focused on assessing market livestock at various production stages. Feeder cattle were evaluated for frame scores and flesh levels, while marketready hogs, sheep, and cattle were appraised for back fat, rib-eye area, yield grades, and loin-eye measurements. This hands-on experience helped participants refine their decision-making skills for the meat industry.
Meat Division: The Meat Division challenged participants with carcass evaluations in the University of Wyoming coolers. They assessed beef, sheep, and swine for fat content, marbling, KPH, and overall quality, while ranking retail cuts of each species. The most demanding element was answering detailed questions about carcasses and cuts under time constraints, a rigorous exercise that deepened their knowledge and experience.
Communications Division: Students worked as a team to present industry-relevant messages to judges. SDSU’s team addressed electronic identification (EID) tags in global beef production, simulating a community jury discussion with producers, consumers, and industry professionals. Their creative approach and subject expertise earned them Second High Team honors, showcasing their ability to communicate complex topics effectively.
Reflecting on the experience, team member Kallista Roers said, “The meat animal evaluation contest was a great way to cap off my college judging career. It was rewarding to apply what I learned in my animal evaluation class, the meat judging team, and other SDSU courses into one contest. I also enjoyed learning from Tommy Norman and my teammates, who were more livestockoriented, while being able to teach them the meat side of things, which was my focus during school.”
Written by Lauren Weishaar
The South Dakota State University Meat Judging Team has a longstanding history of excellence, which has been upheld by the 2024 and 2025 teams.
The purpose of the competition is to help students gain a deeper understanding of the meat industry, including processing, fabrication, and the evaluation of beef, pork, and lamb.
During the competition, students rank classes of retail cuts based on various placing factors and then justify their decisions to judges through written sets of reasons. Additionally, a separate class of cuts is evaluated based on how closely they align with industry specifications. Another portion of the competition involves evaluating beef carcasses for yield and quality grades, as well as determining their potential use in the industry.
Among the criteria used to assess retail cuts and carcasses are trimness, muscling, and quality. Through this process, students develop a range of skills, from soft skills such as communication to practical knowledge applicable to selecting meat products as consumers.
Charlee Petersen, a senior majoring in animal science and agricultural science with minors in meat science and agricultural business, was a member of last year’s meat judging team and now serves as one of the assistant coaches for the current team. She recognizes the value of this experience for students who have the opportunity to compete.
Submitting written reasons for classes teaches students how to take detail-oriented notes and develop time management skills,” Petersen said. “It’s a great opportunity to meet new people and get involved with the meat industry.”
As a member of last year’s team, Rhea Laib joined to learn more about the meat industry and to connect with likeminded individuals. After a year of competition, she reflected on the impact of the experience.
“My main takeaways from this experience have been the opportunity to develop my evaluation skills while networking with industry professionals and further expanding my ability to make decisions,” Laib said.
Kansas Kroll, a current meats judging team member, shared that she decided to compete at the collegiate level after participating in the Meats Judging Career Development Event (CDE) through her high school FFA chapter.
“I am also very interested in the meat industry and hope to pursue a career related to it after college,” Kroll said.
Her favorite part of being on the team has been learning new things and forming new friendships.
The competitions are held in meat processing plants across the country with assistance from the American Meat Science Association. The team will compete in several major contests throughout the year. Last year’s team earned multiple top-ten individual finishes, and the current team has recently begun traveling for the new season.
Competitions include:
• National Western – Denver, CO
• South Plains – Hereford, TX
• American Royal – Omaha, NE
• Cargill High Pl ains – Friona, TX
• International – Dakota City, NE
The 2024 team included Charlee Petersen, Rhea Laib, Jenna Dougherty, and Mason Nagel. The current team consists of Kansas Kroll, Gavin Romeschek, Cindy Pohlen, and John Boerboom, with assistant coaches Charlee Petersen and Teigen Hadrick. Dr. Keith Underwood, who also serves as the SDSU Meats Judging Coordinator, is the team’s head coach.
Wrriten by Ella Stiefvater
In September 2024, the first annual Jacks Classic Swine Show, hosted by South Dakota State University Swine Club, came to campus.
SDSU Swine Club has long had the idea in mind to start its jackpot swine show similar to the Jackrabbits Memorial steer show. The intentions were to start the show to give exhibitors the opportunity to get a practice show in between the Minnesota and South Dakota State fairs and Aksarben Stock Show. Aksarben marks the start of fall national show seasons and many exhibitors wish to get practice in before hitting the ring at such large and competitive shows.
“This show allows us to provide an opportunity for growth and support of SDSU Jackrabbit fans who share our passion for swine,” said Taylor Franz.
Franz’s role as the Jacks Classic Show Coordinator has been a transformative experience. From working with the show committee, she has watched the growth in something bigger than one person.
“I have been looking forward to seeing another event that promotes SDSU student’s passion for agriculture that also provides youth with another opportunity to showcase their passions as well,” said Franz.
Last school year, Swine Club members applied for a position on the Jacks Classic show committee and 17 members were selected. These committee members then worked throughout the spring and summer to plan the show.
Additional Swine Club members stepped up and volunteered their time during the show.
Former SDSU Swine Club President and agricultural education junior, Kaylee Steele of Utica, MN, looked forward to starting this new tradition for Swine Club and SDSU. She hopes it becomes a yearly show and is excited to use it as a recruiting tool for the countless high school students that attend and compete.
Steele’s role during the planning and preparation of the show was on the skillathon and rulebook committee. The skillathon was created for four different age division and competitors were allowed to take it when they weren’t showing. The goal of this competition is to provide an education opportunity for exhibitors to gain knowledge about the swine opportunity. Participants received points based on the test score, showmanship and class placings.
At the end of the show, a total is tallied and whoever has the most overall points received a hanging showbox.
Jacks Classic received tremendous support from the swine show industry and commercial swine industry. Supporters consisted of multiple show pig breeders, finishing farms, agricultural business and on-campus organizations. Because of these supporters, the show was able to give away over 60 banners and prizes.
Written by Kristen Smith
Students and faculty at South Dakota State University are gearing up for the annual Jackrabbits Memorial Jackpot Show, scheduled to take place in Brookings on February 21–23, 2025.
The cattle-focused show is hosted by a committee of six students from Block and Bridle and Alpha Gamma Rho (AGR), along with other members who assist during the event. The committee includes:
• Larissa Sitzmann, co-chair
• TJ Harris, co-chair
• Jaleigh Halsted, media chair
• Haley Mouser, treasurer
• Jamie Geyer, operations chair
• Caden Bottum, branding and advertising chair
The Jackrabbits Memorial committee has been meeting regularly to plan and prepare since their selection in April 2024. Key preparations have included selecting dates for the show, securing sponsors and vendors, lining up judges, and hiring photographers.
Larissa Sitzmann, a junior agricultural science student from Le Mars, Iowa, highlighted the importance of the dedicated SDSU students who contribute to the event each year. “The Jackrabbits Memorial is also almost 100% student-run, with assistance from Cody Wright,” Sitzmann said.
Junior animal science major Haley Mouser explained the significance of the show for the cattle industry.
“Jackrabbits Memorial is a special event to SDSU because we are honoring the memory of SDSU alumni who had a true passion for the cattle industry,” said Haley Mouser. “It is so exciting to see their legacy carried on and grown by the many juniors who attend and compete at Jackrabbits Memorial.”
As the name suggests, the Jackrabbits Memorial show is held in loving memory of Brent Beitelspacher, DJ Fischer, Logan Rau, Nick Reimann, and Lisa Johnson. Sitzmann emphasized that a central goal of the show is to provide an opportunity for their families to ensure the passion these individuals had for the livestock industry is passed on to future generations.
“The passion of giving back to the agricultural community ran deep for each of the five individuals lost in 2014,” Sitzmann said. “Their families have allowed the Jackrabbits Memorial to memorialize their loved ones by sponsoring five scholarships that will be awarded at the show.”
On the Friday night before the event, cattle exhibitors from across the region can begin checking in their animals. A second check-in opportunity will be available early Saturday morning, followed by the showmanship competition, which is divided by exhibitor age groups.
Divisions include:
• Pee Wee (under 8 years old)
• Beginners (8–12 years old)
• Juniors (13–16 years old)
• Seniors (17–21 years old)
At noon on Saturday, the breeding heifer show will begin, featuring a special presentation of scholarship awards and family recognition before the final drive. On Sunday, the market beef show will start at 8 a.m., and after its conclusion, many hardworking members of Block and Bridle and AGR will tear down and clean up the facility.
Written by Ella Steifvater
Ag Week will return to South Dakota State University from April 22–25, 2025, featuring a series of events designed for both students and faculty to engage with the agriculture industry. The College of Agriculture, Food, and Environmental Sciences (CAFES) Prexy Council is spearheading the initiative, aiming to bring agriculture into the spotlight on campus.
Mitchell VanderWal, president of the CAFES Prexy Council and a senior animal science major, highlights the council’s efforts in organizing the week. “Our goal is to reach as many students as possible, regardless of major, and show everyone the awesome things happening in agriculture and across campus,” VanderWal said.
Mary Christensen, advisor for the Prexy Council, notes the event’s growth over the years. “It seems like this annual tradition gets bigger and better every year. The Prexy Council Executive Team is putting together a whole week of events to celebrate in 2025, kicking off the celebration with Earth Day,” Christensen said. The event will also feature Ag Day T-shirts, a popular item among students.
Each year, the Prexy Council votes on a theme for Ag Day, and this year’s theme is “Where Excellence Meets Agriculture.” Kristen Smith, an agricultural communications senior and Ag Day chair, explains the significance of the theme. “I think this year’s theme really encompasses the college and the students within it,” Smith said. “There are so many different facets of the college, and so many students bring in an array of success that deserves to be recognized during Ag Week but also every other week of the year.”
While the focus is on agriculture, Smith emphasizes the importance of fun and engaging events for students. “There are so many fun events being planned that we want students across SDSU’s campus to enjoy,” she said.
Ag Week will kick off on Tuesday, which also coincides with Earth Day, with a special recognition for the Natural Resource Management department and their role in agriculture. Later in the evening, a student dodgeball tournament will take place.
On Wednesday, the event will feature the return of the Milk Run, a 3K or 5K run organized in partnership with the Dairy Club and Swine Club, followed by a free breakfast. That afternoon, select
sponsors and CAFES clubs will be tabling in the Student Union to engage with students. The day will conclude with the Ag Day banquet at Club 71, where students, faculty, and clubs will be recognized for their contributions to agriculture. A keynote speaker will also be featured during the meal.
Thursday will see the second annual CAFES club potluck, providing an opportunity for clubs to showcase a dish that represents them and foster connections between students and faculty. The week will conclude with a swing dance hosted by the SDSU Swing Dance Club, offering a fun social activity for attendees.
Students are encouraged to sign up for events as individuals, teams, or through their clubs. Smith also encourages students to advocate for agriculture. “Use your organization as a platform to educate others about the agriculture industry, whether that be on the SDSU campus, in the Brookings community, or in surrounding areas,” she said.
Christensen notes the extensive preparation that has gone into the event. “Fundraising and sponsorship requests have played a big part in the early planning stages, along with solidifying reservations, a speaker, and working through design ideas incorporating the theme,” Christensen said.
At its core, Smith emphasizes that the purpose of Ag Week is clear. “The entire purpose of Ag Week is to educate people about the agriculture industry, and that is why the week is full of opportunities to do just that,” Smith said.
VanderWal echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the broader significance of the event. “A celebration like Ag Day allows this great university the opportunity to show off all the amazing people who help the world go round,” VanderWal said. “More importantly, we, as future industry leaders, understand how bright the future can be if we continue to learn, grow, and persevere.”
Written by Ella Stiefvater
The Little “I” scholarship program awards two $1,500 scholarships and two $1,000 scholarships annually to high school seniors who demonstrate a passion for agriculture, plan to attend South Dakota State University, and hope to contribute to Little International. For the 101st Little “I” in 2024, four outstanding students were selected based on their scholastic achievements, community involvement, and performance during in-person interviews.
Andrew Timm, from Adams, MN, serves as Assistant Livestock Transport for Little International. He is majoring in animal science with a specialization in production and agricultural sciences, complemented by minors in agribusiness marketing and ranch management.
Ava Schoenfield, from Lake Benton, MN, is a member of the Photography Committee. She is pursuing a degree in animal science with minors in agribusiness marketing, public relations, and meat science.
Wyatt Glessing, from Waverly, MN, holds the role of Assistant Nursery and Landscape Superintendent. He is majoring in precision agriculture with minors in political science and the dairy industry.
Sarah Vacura, from Le Mars, IA, is studying animal science production with minors in meat science and agricultural business. Though not on Little International staff, she actively participates in various clubs and organizations across campus.
The CAFES Prexy Council recognized four recipients as Outstanding CAFES Seniors during the annual Ag Day awards celebration last spring. A committee comprising Prexy Council representatives and CAFES faculty selected Emily Matejka, Kaitlyn Lorang, Karmen Sperr, and Zoey Schentzel for their exceptional leadership and academic excellence within the College of Agriculture, Food, and Environmental Sciences.
Emily Matejka, a native of Sherburn, MN, earned a degree in agricultural communications with minors in agronomy and agricultural business. During her time at South Dakota State University, Matejka actively participated in numerous organizations, including Collegiate FFA/Ag Ed Club, Alpha Zeta Honors Fraternity, Sigma Alpha, Collegiate Farm Bureau, Little International, and Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow. She
also served as a CAFES Ambassador and was the undergraduate teaching assistant for soils and soybean production. Matejka was recognized as the 2022–2023 CAFES Advocate. Currently, she is employed by Corteva Agriscience as an associate territory manager in their Pioneer Seed Division.
Kaitlyn Lorang, from Morton, MN, pursued a degree in agricultural communications with minors in agronomy and crop protection. At SDSU, Lorang was deeply involved in leadership and student organizations, serving as a CAFES Senator in the Students’ Association, a member of the CAFES Prexy Council Leadership Team, and a participant in the Agronomy and Precision Ag Club, Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow, Collegiate Farm Bureau, and Little International. Additionally, she was a CAFES Ambassador from 2021 to 2023, an Admissions Ambassador, and Interim SDSU Campus Visit Coordinator. Lorang now works for Minnesota Pork as their sustainability outreach coordinator.
Karmen Sperr, a native of Donnelly, MN, earned dual degrees in agricultural communications and agricultural leadership, with minors in public relations, animal science, and agricultural business. Sperr’s campus involvement included Agriculture
Futures of America, Alpha Zeta Honors Fraternity, Little International, Sigma Alpha Sorority, Prexy Council, Swine Club, and serving as a CAFES Ambassador. She is now employed as the agriculture communications specialist for the Minnesota State Fair.
Zoey Schentzel, from Farmington, MN, pursued a degree in agricultural communications with minors in entrepreneurial studies, animal science, and journalism with a photography emphasis. While at SDSU, Schentzel participated in the Hobo Day Committee, Little International, Collegiate Farm Bureau, Alpha Zeta Honors Fraternity, Sigma Alpha Sorority, Agriculture Futures of America, Swine Club, Dairy Club, Prexy Council, Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow, and the University Lutheran Center. She also served as an Honors Animal Science 101 teaching assistant, a Collegian SDSU Newspaper photographer, and a CAFES Ambassador. Schentzel is set to join CHS as an intern on their marketing team.
These outstanding graduates leave behind a legacy of excellence and leadership, inspiring future students within CAFES at SDSU.
Written by Emma Heiden
Professor Rosie Nold’s passion for education and agriculture has made her a standout leader at South Dakota State University. Originally from Pipestone, MN, Nold’s connection to SDSU spans decades. She earned both her undergraduate and Ph.D. degrees at SDSU, with career stops as a county extension agent and a role at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln before returning to SDSU. Now in her 11th year as Assistant Department Head and Professor in the Animal Science Department, she continues to make a lasting impact.
“I’ve had the privilege of having Dr. Nold as both a professor and club advisor for the last four years,” said Allison Wright. “Her intelligence and genuine care for all of her students have taught me so much.”
Dr. Nold has served as an advisor to Little International for three years, but her connection to the event began as a student. “I really like what Little I offers in terms of opportunities. It is one of the shining stars at SDSU,” Nold said.
One of Nold’s favorite aspects of the event is the Pete Pritchett Memorial
Award, which she considers a significant honor for students. Created to recognize individuals nominated by staff for their dedication and hard work, the award honors the memory of Pete Pritchett, a livestock coordinator whose deep involvement with Little International and other SDSU campus activities left a lasting legacy before his passing the summer before his senior year. This year, she’s excited about the reintroduction of wool breeds in the sheep show and expanded opportunities like fitting contests.
Written by Makenzie Alberts
Peter, better known as “Pete,” Pritchett of Pipestone, MN, 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 the 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 established the Pete Pritchett Award, given to a staff member who exemplifies the same commitment and leadership that Pete demonstrated. Recipients of the award are nominated and voted on by the entire staff, making it one of the most meaningful honors of the event.
During the 101st Little International, Kaleb Koerselman and Ethan Wright were selected as co-recipients of this prestigious award.
Ethan, of Brandon, SD, majored in agricultural science with minors in animal science, precision agriculture, and commodity risk management. On campus, he was involved in Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club and Little International.
During Little “I,” Ethan was on the equipment staff during his sophomore and junior years before becoming one
of the executive equipment committee members in his senior year. Ethan’s favorite memory of Little “I” was putting the “LI” out in the middle of the chips every year before the opening ceremonies.
To Ethan, placing the “centerpiece” down was always special, as it symbolized the final touches of all the work done in the weeks leading up to Little “I” to prepare the arena for the twoday event.
The moment Ethan and Kaleb were selected as co-recipients of this award was a memorable one. The Pete Pritchett Award is one of the most honorable awards Ethan has ever received.
“I know that each year the staff does an outstanding job nominating so many deserving individuals who put countless hours above and beyond what they are expected to do for Little I. It’s a shame we can’t have multiple recipients every year,” said Ethan. “It was definitely a moment I will never forget, and you just can’t put into words what that means to me.”
Since graduating from SDSU, Ethan has worked back home on his family operation.
Kaleb, a Le Mars, IA, native and 2024 graduate, majored in agricultural science with minors in agricultural business, agribusiness marketing, and precision agriculture.
During his time as a student, Kaleb was the Assistant Beef Superintendent his freshman year and showed a pig. In his sophomore year, he showed another pig and served as the ag sales superintendent. That year, he received reserve champion showmanship honors and advanced to compete in the round robin. His junior year was spent on the equipment staff, followed by his senior year, when he served on the executive team as one of the equipment managers alongside Ethan.
One of Kaleb’s favorite memories of Little “I” was building and assembling the new barn, a process that transformed the face of Little “I” for years to come.
“Receiving the Pete Pritchett Award was a very high honor for me. I am very appreciative to be a part of the past individuals who have also received the award,” said Kaleb. “It truly shows that when you put your heart and mind toward something, a lot of good can pay off in the end.”
After graduation, Kaleb moved home to Le Mars and continues to work with his family’s farm and agriculture retail business. This business involves selling seed and chemicals, and Kaleb has spent many hours in a sprayer throughout the summer.
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
2006 Eric Gjerde, Hazel, SD
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, Suterl and, 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
2024 Kaleb Koerselman, Le Mars, IA
Ethan Wright, Brandon, SD
Each year, animal science students are selected to serve as ambassadors for the South Dakota State University (SDSU) Department of Animal Science. For the 2024–2025 academic year, the Animal Science Ambassadors include:
• Teigen Hadrick of Faulkton, SD
• Mitchell Vander Wal of Howard, SD
• Bruce Van De Stroet of Canton, SD
• Ella Kreber of Granville, IA
• Lauren Ballard of Waiteville, WV
• Sydney Heins of Wayzata, MN
Lisa Roker, an animal science advisor, oversees the program.
“The Animal Science Ambassadors assist with prospective student visits and share a student perspective on classes and opportunities,” said Roker. “Ambassadors also provide peer mentorship to students in their first year at SDSU.”
The program is designed to promote the Animal Science department by engaging with prospective students and their families. Ambassadors provide tours of the Animal Science Complex and Livestock Units, answer questions, and share insights about life as an SDSU Animal Science student.
“My favorite part about being an ambassador is sharing all the things I love about SDSU Animal Science with potential incoming students,” said Sydney Heins. “This department has so many amazing things to offer, and I hope to help our recruits choose SDSU because of that.”
In addition to recruitment efforts, the Ambassadors serve as mentors for first-year Animal Science majors. They offer guidance to help new students transition from high school to college, sharing advice on achieving academic success and navigating campus life.
The Ambassadors’ passion for SDSU drives their dedication to connecting with younger students. This program fosters personal growth for both the Ambassadors and the students they mentor. Ambassadors develop leadership and communication skills, while first-year students gain relatable mentors who provide valuable insights and encouragement.
Written by Grace Sargent
Randy Wirt can be remembered as the manager of Little International in 1978 or as a successful purebred swine breeder. However, to his family, Randy was known as a hard worker, an encourager, and someone whose passion for youth in agriculture was unparalleled.
Randy began his agricultural journey through 4-H and FFA before attending South Dakota State University in 1974 to pursue a degree in animal science. While his ultimate goal was to return to the family farm, he discovered a deep calling in the red Little I barn.
Randy’s involvement in Little I began as a swine exhibitor, earning reserve round robin showmanship honors in 1976 and champion sheep fitter recognition in 1977. After serving as assistant manager, he became manager of the 57th Little International.
One of his proudest accomplishments during his tenure was relocating the event from the old barn on campus to the animal science arena.
This transition brought new challenges, including assembling the iconic red barn cutout and the white fence synonymous with the event’s green and gold chips.
Katie Fish, Randy’s youngest daughter, reflected on his pride during this time.
“He could probably care less what grades he had in the books.” Katie said. “He knew he was coming back to the farm, so the diploma was pride itself, but to get involved with people was something he always loved—and livestock too—which was a perfect combination for him.”
Little I also became a place of introduction for Randy and his future wife, Chris, who was pursuing an associate’s secretarial degree at the time.
“While he was assistant manager, him and one of the guys came out and made rounds for the livestock,” Chris recalled. “And I had a Hereford heifer. I was out on the farm working on it, and that’s how we met.”
During his time at SDSU, Randy also participated in Alpha Gamma Rho, Rodeo Club, Block and Bridle, and the livestock judging team. However, the relationships he built on the green chips held a special place in his heart.
“It was really important to him to see it evolve and grow,” Chris said. “He had his little stake in the ground for how he impacted that.”
Randy’s connection to Little I extended beyond his college years. The family made annual trips to Brookings for the event, instilling the tradition in his children. “As a kid, that was a guaranteed annual trip that we were going to Brookings for Little I,” said Adam Wirt, the son of Randy and Chris.
Sarah Baloun, Randy’s middle daughter, also cherished these trips.
“It was very much a family event we attended every year,” Sarah said. “As a little kid sitting in the bleachers, it was always something I wanted to do someday.”
After graduating, Randy returned to the family farm, where his father, Russell, had built a purebred Duroc operation. Randy added purebred Hampshires and expanded the operation to include sheep. In 1977, the family hosted their first sale of purebred boars and gilts.
Over time, the swine industry’s shift toward artificial insemination led the operation to focus on producing highquality show pigs. Today, the sale, now in its 47th year, continues under Adam and Sarah’s management.
“We’ve lost a pretty important herdsman,” Adam said. “Sarah took over the day-inand-day-out of the swine operation, and I’ve done that with the sheep side, and yet we work together closely.”
Randy’s pride in his SDSU days was evident through his continued support for the university. He donated show pigs for Little I exhibitors and opened his farm to the SDSU livestock judging team for practice.
“[My dad’s] days at SDSU, like for many of us, created strong relationships for the future,” Adam said.
In addition to his farm duties, Randy was actively involved in several organizations, including the South Dakota Purebred Swine Breeders Association, Turner County Pork Producers, and South Dakota Pork Producers.
He also served as a co-superintendent for the Aksarben swine show and a dedicated volunteer for the Turner County Fair. Despite his busy schedule, Randy prioritized his family and youth in agriculture.
“My dad was excited when anybody had an interest in showing or livestock in general,” said Katie. “He gravitated towards that person. He had their back and was excited they were doing it.”
Randy’s enthusiasm for youth programs and livestock shows was unwavering. He was instrumental in the creation of the Born and Bred Sheep Show and consistently attended the Spotlight Show and the South Dakota State Fair.
“He always liked the idea of providing more opportunities for kids and for them to show their animals and win money back,” Katie said.
Known for his kindness and vibrant personality, Randy left a lasting impression on everyone he met.
“He was so busy doing things on the farm, but if someone needed something, he was always there,” Chris said.
Even at national shows, Randy’s ability to connect with others stood out. His children fondly recall long conversations he had with other breeders and memorable road trips to major shows.
“I’ll never forget the 2 a.m. gas-up at a truck stop in Illinois when my dad contemplated buying an AC/DC cassette to help with the drive,” Katie said. “The tape eventually got stuck and is still in the farm truck.”
Randy’s legacy lives on through his children, who all attended SDSU and participated in Little I. Adam followed in his father’s footsteps, eventually becoming the manager of the 79th Little International. Sarah and Katie also embraced the family’s agricultural traditions, excelling in livestock activities during their time at SDSU.
Through his dedication to agriculture, family, and the community, Randy Wirt created a legacy that continues to inspire.
As Adam reflected, “It was so cool to hear all the stories about the impact he made on others. That really showed us what kind of guy we got to spend time with.”
Written by Ella Stiefvater
2025
2024 Randy Wirt, Parker Edward T. Blair, Vale
2023Rod Geppert, Kimball
2022Don Marshall, Brookings
2021Kevin Vander Wal, Volga
2020Donna Moenning, Hayfield, MN
2019David Stenberg, Colman
2018Leon Wrage, Brookings
2017Mike and Betty Brink, Redfield
2016Gary Haiwick, Highmore
2015Dr. Kelly Bruns, North Platte, NE
2014Gilbert and Rosemar Mohrhauser Family, Hartford
2013 Steve and Arloine Goodfellow, Bruce
2012Duane and Colleen Blare Family, Winner
2011Dr. Lowell Slyter, Brookings
2010Fred and Joan DeRouchey Family, Mitchell
2009Sharon Odegaard Family, Lake Preston
2008Edward and Gina VanderWal family, Volga
2007Leonard and Violet Wulf, Morris, MN
2006Dr. Roger Hunsley, Omaha, NE
2005Darrell Anderson, Sherburn, MN
2004John and Delina Nagel, Avon
2003Denny Everson, Yankton
2002Dr. Fred Cholik, Brookings
2001Jim Woster, Sioux Falls
2000Dr. Dan Gee, Brookings
1999Dr. William Costello, Brookings
1998W.C. McCone, Redfield
1997Chester Gullikson, Bath
1996Walter Schaefer, Sioux Falls
1995Howard Hillman, Canova
1994Darwin G. Britzman, Sioux Falls
1993Robert Duxbury, Wessington
1992Vern Fritz, Sioux Falls
1991Leonard Fawcett, Ree Heights
1990Walter Bones, Parker
Mrs. Barbara Law, Yankton
1989Gordon Brockmueller, Freeman
1988Russell Wirt, Parker
Mrs. Eleanor Krokosh, Ipswich
1987Mark Keffeler, Sturgis
Mrs. Lucille Ronke, Watertown
1986John W. Curry, Elk Point
Mrs. Margie Esmay, Murdo
1985Martin Jorgensen, Winner
Mrs. Gene Christie, Brookings
1984Carl Ham, Pennington County
Mrs. Ethel Christiansen, Yankton
1983Forrest (Shorty) Ireland, Belvidere
Mrs. Kay Snyder, Piedmont
1982Bernard Beastrom, Pierre
Mrs. Emily Jennings, Spearfish
1981Gordon Quinn, Timber Lake
Mrs. Chrys Daniel, Wentworth
1980Pat Gant, Geddes
Mrs. Florine Glaus, Chamberlain
1979Ervin Dobberstein, Baltic
Mrs. Mildred Acheson, Chester
1978Warren Wright, Brandon
Mrs. Grace Sanderson, Aurora
1977Wendell Leafstedt, Alcester
Mrs. Dorothy Littau, Winner
1976John Glaus, Chamberlain
Mrs. Anna Mae Tesch, Watertown
1975Dr. H.M. Briggs, Brookings
Mrs. Alvida Sorenson, Brookings
1974Clarence Hillman, Canova
Mrs. Alyce Kettering, Mellette
1973Rodney Larson, Fruitdale
Mrs. Clarence Levins, Brandt
1972Walter Taylor, Pennington County
Mrs. Martin Muchow, Sioux Falls
1971Don Jorgensen, Ideal
Mrs. William Kirsch, White River
1970L.L. Zeller, Vermillion
Mrs. Laurence Stuck, Mellette
1969Clark J. Lamport, Britton
Mrs. Lillian Tornberg, Beresford
1968Leonard Dailey, Jefferson
Mrs. Lillian Dahl, Clear Lake
1967John Gauger, Clear Lake
Mrs. Edith May Garrett, Pierre
1966Harry Blair, Sturgis
Mrs. Robert Knickrehm, Verdon
1965Pete Ginsbach, Dell Rapids
Mrs. Warren Wright, Brandon
1964Allen Sperry, Bath
Mrs. Joe Biever, Oelrichs
1963Harry Gustafson, Brandt
Mrs. Marvin Twombley, Vale
1962Jay Welch, Mitchell
Mrs. Howard Hansen, Pierre
1961Walter Feind, Hazel
Mrs. Adolf Larson, Bath
1960Hugh Faulkner, Faulkton
Mrs. Charles Newcomb, Rowena
1959Nick Fox, Watertown
Mrs. Orville Blocker, Webster
1958Justin Mortvedt, Dell Rapids
Mrs. Charles Reid, Nisland
1957Fred G. Hoscher, Faulkton
Mrs. Alvin Kausuke, Milbank
1956Ted Larson, Pierre
Mrs. Percy Copeland, Kennebec
1955Emil Rezac, Tabor
Mrs. Earl Lambert, Fedora
1954Art Thelin, Sioux Falls
Mrs. R.H. Gardner, Madison
1953Jim Magness, Miller
Mrs. Cyrus Heifner, Rosholt
1952A.B. Taylor, Pierre
Mrs. Louisa Sale, Montrose
1951Ernest Ham, Piedmont
Mrs. Bernice Smiley, Mt. Vernon
1950Sam Bober, Newell
Mrs. George Becker, Onida
1949Wilbur Bryant, Canton
1948Enos Blair, Sturgis
Mrs. Lorenz Lippert, Crow Agency, MT
1947Henry N. Dyvig, Humboldt
1946John Hartman, Humboldt
1945World War II
1944World War II
1943C.B. Newcomb, Madison
1942Thad Oviatt, Huron
1941Albert Hill, Alexandria
1940Charles S. Blackman, Watertown
1939In memory of H.G. Skinner, Brookings
The College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences (CAFES) has named South Dakota State University’s Agronomy and Precision Ag Club as the 2024 CAFES Club of the Year. Each year, the CAFES Prexy Council selects one club that has gone above and beyond to provide members with meaningful experiences throughout the school year.
The Agronomy and Precision Ag Club strives to provide its members with quality information on agronomy and precision agriculture. Professional development is a core focus, achieved through hosting industry speakers and offering internship and career opportunities by connecting members with industry professionals.
A major accomplishment this year was hosting the National Meeting of Agronomy Clubs. The process involved forming a planning committee and submitting a proposal, which was accepted in the summer of 2024. The meeting will take place on SDSU’s campus this spring.
The club fosters members’ passion for agronomy by organizing events each semester that introduce cutting-edge agronomic information and promote an inclusive atmosphere of like-minded individuals. According to club president Kade Wassman, the connections formed within the club have had a significant impact, helping members secure jobs, internships, and lifelong friendships.
This year, the Agronomy and Precision Ag Club boasted 65 active members from diverse majors, including agronomy and agricultural business. Member involvement is encouraged through initiatives such as the annual road ditch cleanup, participation in the Hobo Day parade float, and the hosting of the national meeting of agronomy clubs.
“Looking back at my time at SDSU, I can say Agronomy Club has been one of my most impactful experiences. It connected me to some of my best friends, gave me incredible opportunities, and it has grown into something that is so much bigger and more impactful than I thought possible,” said Wassman. “This club is bigger than just something to be involved in—it is an inspiring organization that pays back dividends to its members in every way possible.”
Written by Grace Sargent
Background
Kent and his wife, Faye, reside on their family farm near Wilmot, SD, where they remain actively involved in agriculture.
Agricultural Roots
Kent’s passion for farming began early. He raised Registered Duroc hogs, earning recognition by exhibiting the Grand Champion Duroc Sow at the South Dakota State Fair in 1963. In 1965, he transitioned his operation to Specific Pathogen Free (SPF) hogs to provide healthier breeding stock.
Kent chose South Dakota State University for its strong agricultural programs, inspired by his high school experience in FFA and Ag Education. He majored in Agricultural Education with minors in Speech and Political Science.
Campus Involvement
An active student leader, Kent participated in Ag-Ed Club, Block and Bridle, Alpha Zeta (serving as Chancellor), Alpha Gamma Rho, and Little International.
Little International Experience
Introduced to Little International in high school, Kent later served as Assistant Swine Superintendent (1967), Swine Superintendent (1968), and Master of Ceremonies (1969). He credits the experience with fostering teamwork, broadening his agricultural horizon, and building lifelong connections.
Awards and Achievements
Kent was named “High Point Freshman” and won first place in Swine Fitting and Showmanship at Little International. He also served as Freshman Class President, competed in Forensics, and was selected for an International FFA Ambassador program in 1967, where he studied European agriculture.
After SDSU, Kent dedicated his career to agriculture and education. He taught Ag Education and FFA for 13 years, served as President of the South Dakota Pork Producers, and held leadership roles in the South Dakota Legislature for 14 years, including four years as Assistant Minority Leader. He also led the South Dakota Association of Agricultural Educators.
Commitment to Agriculture’s Future
Kent remains passionate about mentoring young agriculturalists, emphasizing the importance of commodity organizations and succession planning for family farms. He values SDSU and Extension Services as key resources in advancing these efforts.
Reflections and Advice
Kent regards Little International as a transformative experience, encouraging all SDSU students to participate.
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“It will be a life-changing experience.”
KENT FRERICHS
We recognize this list is incomplete and welcome any additions that belong.
2024
High Point Freshman, Beth Holst
High Point Upperclassman, Jenna Dougherty
Grand Champion Round Robin, Bradyn Lachenmeier
Reserve Champion Round Robin, Emma Richardson
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
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
High Point Freshman, Amy Beckstrand
2015
Grand Champion Showmanship, Andrew Berg
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Kaitlyn Kline
High Point Upperclassman, Tyler Jensen
High Point Freshman, Andrew Berg
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
Grand Champion Showmanship, Jason May
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Ashley Beer
High Point Upperclassman, Jay Wolff
High Point Freshman, John Weber
2011
Grand Champion Showmanship, Kyle Sommers
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Sara Sample
High Point Upperclassman, Brett Tostensen
High Point Freshman, D.J. Buseman
2010
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
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
1995
Grand Champion Showmanship, Carie Dressen
Reserve Champion Showmanship, Joel DeRouchey
High Point Upperclassman, Erin Pettigrew
High Point Freshman, Mark Beitelspacher
1994
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
High Point Freshman, Kent Frerichs
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, Ray Lein (Fitting and Showmanship)
The Ag in the Classroom committee is an exciting new addition to the 102nd Little International, and it is already making a significant impact. The committee’s primary goal is to provide local children with a foundational understanding of agriculture and its connection to their everyday lives.
For many, agriculture has been a way of life for generations. Growing up on farms, surrounded by fields and livestock, individuals learn firsthand the essential role agriculture plays in feeding, clothing and supporting the world. It is deeply embedded in their identity. However, with each new generation, society as a whole becomes increasingly disconnected from its agricultural roots. Today, many children are unaware of where the food in their refrigerator comes from or how it is produced.
This is where the Ag in the Classroom committee steps in. The committee seeks to bridge this gap by teaching children about various agricultural practices and demonstrating how these practices directly relate to their own lives. Lessons are designed to be hands-on, engaging, and memorable, helping students retain the information and share it with their families.
So far, the committee has reached 210 students from three schools in the Brookings area: Medary, Hillcrest, and Dakota Prairie. However, this is just the beginning. With the start of the new year, the committee is focused on expanding the program even further.
The first lesson, “What’s on My Thanksgiving Plate?” introduced students to the agricultural origins of the foods they enjoy during the holiday. The lesson covered farming practices for turkeys, wheat, potatoes, and pumpkins while connecting these crops to South Dakota’s agricultural landscape.
By highlighting local connections, the lessons became more relatable and meaningful to the students.
The ripple effect of these lessons is powerful. Students are not only being educated, but are also taking what they’ve learned home, sparking conversations with their families, and spreading awareness further.
Both the Ag in the Classroom committee and Little International recognize the importance of teaching the next generation about agriculture and its vital role in our industries. With each lesson, the committee is empowering the leaders and consumers of tomorrow to stay connected to agriculture. Together, they can ensure its legacy continues to thrive.
Written by Elle Ploeger
On Saturday, September 14, 2024 the South Dakota Cattlemen’s Foundation was named the SDSU Friend of the Beef Industry during the South Dakota State versus Augustana football game.
The South Dakota Cattlemen’s Foundation was established in 2013 with a combined passion of cattle producers and industry supporters. The Foundation partnered with Feed South Dakota in 2013 to create the Prime Time Gala fundraising event.
Since 2016, at the gala, $15,000 is awarded to five students attending South Dakota schools that are interested in the improvement of beef production and promotion. Although the scholarships are open to any student enrolled in any post-secondary institution, there is an overwhelming majority that attend South Dakota State.
As a foundation, innovation is at the core. This past year, that fostered a new partnership with South Dakota State, to fund undergraduate research through the Department of Animal Science. Currently, two projects are being funded on an ongoing basis.
“It’s an honor to participate in the recognition of such avid supporters of undergraduate education and beef cattle research at SDSU,” said Dr. John Jaeger, Calvin & Mary Hayenga Department Head of Animal Science.
“It really made sense to partner with the land grant university to allow students to look at different research opportunities within the beef industry and the partnership has been outstanding,” said Ryan Eichler, President of the SD Cattlemen’s Foundation.
Eichler was an SDSU animal science graduate in 2001 and has been with the foundation since its inception.
“Speaking on behalf of the foundation, the industry participants and supporters this award is extremely special,” said Eichler, “Our goal is to highlight the philanthropy of the beef industry, and we’re merely stewards of these dollars and it’s special to be recognized and to accept this award on behalf of the South Dakota Beef Industry.”
Looking forward to the future, the foundation is working to broaden the scope of their innovation tenant. During the Prime Time Gala in June, the foundation announced they will be raising dollars to support human nutrition research to prove beef’s critical role in Americans diets.
“Agriculture is the most important industry in the world. We work every day to feed people, and I think pursuing a career in the beef industry is important because beef provides so many nutrients,” said Eichler. “The beef industry is a very rewarding industry that has shaped all of our lives at the foundation.”
“It is my honor to be part of recognizing the South Dakota Cattlemen’s Foundation for all they do to support the South Dakota beef industry,” said Dr. Joseph Cassady, SD Corn Endowed Dean-Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences.
Written by Kristen Smith
South Dakota State University is breaking new ground with its innovative bison studies program. This new academic area includes proposed minor and certificate options, pending approval from the South Dakota Board of Regents. Aimed at students from a variety of disciplines, the program integrates courses from Animal Science and Natural Resource Management (NRM), with a focus on the unique dual nature of bison as both wildlife and livestock.
“The bison courses offer students across SDSU the ability to blend commonly discussed topics from both natural resource management and animal science,” said Philip. “Bison occupy a unique niche within production systems, as they behave as wildlife and livestock simultaneously.”
The program features two core courses, Intro to Bison Management and Advanced Bison Production, which combine theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on experiences. Students in the advanced course will even participate in the iconic Custer State Park Bison Roundup, offering unparalleled fieldwork opportunities.
“Both courses will have hands-on components,” Philip said. “The introductory course will focus on developing strong theoretical skills, whereas the advanced course will hone those skills into tangible deliverables.”
Despite initial concerns about enrollment, the program has received an enthusiastic response from students across campus, as well as support from industry partners. “It is very rewarding to be able to offer these courses to students who evidently wanted to include bison in their curriculum,” Philip said. “The industry is genuinely excited to have students coming from university with bison-related experience and material.”
The Center of Excellence for Bison Studies, established nearly five years ago at SDSU, has played a pivotal role in fostering interest and expanding educational opportunities for students looking to join the bison industry and community.
“I am excited to not only see bison-specific coursework being offered at SDSU, but a suite of courses that will engage students in meaningful education about bison as a food production, ecological keystone, and culturally significant species,” said Kristi Cammack, PhD, from South Dakota State University. “Bison leaders understand the importance of educating the next generation about bison to ensure longevity of their industry and community.”
By emphasizing both land and animal management, the program prepares students for diverse careers in bison conservation and production, from herd management to roles in government organizations like the USDA and NRCS. With the rapid growth of bison production and a 20% increase in membership in the National Bison Association, graduates will be well-positioned to make meaningful contributions to this expanding industry.
Written by Lauren Weishaar
In the fall of 2024, South Dakota State welcomed the first-ever professor in agricultural communication to campus – Dr. Erica Summerfield.
Summerfield, a Clark County, Ohio native quickly because involved in the agriculture industry though her high school vocational agriculture courses. Her passion for agriculture continued to flourish as did her involvement in FFA, showing livestock, working for local farmers and competing in a variety of judging and employability skills contest.
To continue pursuing that passion she had, Summerfield attended Oklahoma State University where she studied agricultural leadership and extension education. Although she didn’t initially begin in agricultural communication, she quickly found a love for communication in the agriculture industry. This drew her to complete her master’s degree in agricultural
communication from OSU before completing her PhD at The Ohio State University in May 2024. Summerfield’s goal was to pursue a faculty position in agricultural communication at a land grant university.
“SDSU allows me to work in a collaborative program which prepares students for their future careers in agricultural communication while holding trust to the values of a land grant institution,” said Summerfield.
The growing group of agricultural communication students at SDSU are active across both CAFES and the College of Communication and Journalism (COJO). Students range from photographers, writers and designers for local companies and university entities. The opportunities for students studying agricultural communication range from advertising agencies, commodity groups, breed organizations to broadcasting and television.
“Ag Communication is the voice for the agricultural industry, students who graduate from our program are able to understand both the science and
technicalities of agriculture while having the skills set to communicate effectively to a wide variety of audiences,” said Summerfield.
Those skills are in writing, public relations, marketing and media to help tell the story of agriculture.
During the next academic year, two new agricultural communications courses will be added, Principles of Agricultural Communication and Agricultural Communication Capstone.
The agricultural communication major has a dedicated student organization, Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow (ACT), which provides professional development and networking opportunities for students interested in communicating about agriculture. This organization is open to all students.
Written by Kristen Smith
South Dakota State College built the present horse barn in 1925, giving life to a unit that would serve the people of South Dakota and provide years of educational experiences. The original purpose of the barn was to house the draft horses that were used to farm the original Experiment Station acres. The experiment station was established to provide the people of South Dakota the opportunity to learn and develop new agriculture methods and animal husbandry practices. At the unit, Percherons, Clydesdales, and Belgians were bred and raised to be utilized for field work. When the horses were not being used, they found themselves integrated into the first Little International stock and grain show held in 1921.
The barn is constructed of brick and mortar with a Gambrelshaped roof graced by three cupolas and six dormers. It stands 36 feet wide by 96 feet long with a large hay mow capable of storing 4,000 small squares or lots of loose hay. The original trolley rail system is still in place for moving loose hay into the mow. Both ends of the building have double cathedral doors on a rail system held in place by pulleys and weights. This allows the doors to slide down and away, opening the mow to receive hay. A large hay hood protects the doors and allows the hay trolley to extend out to drop down and grab hay from a wagon. A beautifully, smoothly worn double floor completes the upstairs mow, worn by years of bales sliding across and a little dancing years ago! The ground-level flooring in the barn is unique and built to provide comfort for horses standing for long periods of time. Foot-long chunks of 4x6 timbers were pounded into the floor on end and tarred over for waterproofing. While the floor has seen plenty of hooves, it is in excellent condition and has many years of use left.
The barn could accommodate nine teams and eight individual drafts in tie stalls with mangers, two tack rooms for harness, an office, a small grain room, and two enclosed stalls for stallions. The barn stands virtually the same as when it was first built in 1925. The only changes added are stall fronts on the double boxes to accommodate light horses. One of the harness rooms was renovated into an extra-large box stall. Sometime in 1988-89, the white trim and dormers were repainted to the dark brown it currently is today, while the interior, once an institutional gray, saw a color change to bright white and dark brown. In May of 2022, when the Brookings area was hit by the derecho, many older livestock buildings were destroyed or badly damaged. The brick barn weathered that storm. The only damage was to the old chimney—it was blown clean off.
As time marched on and gave way to new agricultural developments and tractors, so came the shift in the breeds housed at the facility. In 1946, Morgan horses were introduced, and in 1948, American Saddlebreds were added—these two breeds were brought to the university by Dr. Jim Kaiser. In 1949, the era of heavy horses at the college came to an end. In 1952, the first Quarter Horse filly, named Gold Duster, was purchased by Dr. Paul Kohler from the Denver National Western Stock Show. By 1961, the barn housed only purebred American Quarter Horses. In 1986, Dr. Larry Insley reintroduced Belgian draft horses through cooperative efforts with the McCrossan Boys Ranch in Sioux Falls to teach draft horse driving and preserve the history and use of the barn.
In 2005, with the development of the Equine Minor, the barn now sees even more traffic and is used daily in the teaching curriculum, hosting labs, riding classes, and training of the replacement stock raised at the unit, as well as hosting community events and summer programs.
3 4
“Things change quickly, but one thing has stayed the passage of time. The horse barn still stands tall on the northwest corner of campus, a true testament to craftsmanship, care and necessity. It has always been a pleasure to step through those doors, the sweet smells of hay and horses greeting me. It is an impressive site when that barn is full of horses. It is the greatest classroom anyone could ask for. It has been an honor to care for this facility, keeping the traditions alive and providing educational opportunities for all.”
Jennifer Eide
Equine Teaching Facility Manager
In Spring of 2025, brothers of the Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity and sisters of the Sigma Alpha Sorority will join forces to host the 9th Annual “Blue Jackets, Bright Futures” Pancake Feed. This co-hosted event serves to offer a philanthropy experience for members as proceeds from the event go to benefit the South Dakota FFA Foundation and their Blue Jackets, Bright Futures Program. This program provides FFA jackets to students across the state of South Dakota, which serve as an important piece in their FFA journey. These jackets, valued at $85, are awarded to select students through an application process. Jackets are provided to members who are either unable to afford their own or have gone above and beyond in their chapter in their leadership skills and involvement.
All of the profits collected at this event are donated to this program and have continued to provide jackets for many FFA members. In 2024, enough funds were raised to cover the cost of 16 jackets. The planning committee behind the execution of this event is composed of members from both organizations. Members dedicate time throughout the spring semester to make improvements, gather sponsorships, and advertise the event in order to make this event a success.
On the day of the pancake feed, members of the planning committee join with additional brothers and sisters to volunteer their time in the set up, cooking, and serving of the event. Last year, more than 60 members from both organizations volunteered their time and resources to make the pancake feed a success.
The members of the Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity and Sigma Alpha Sorority would like to thank SDSU and the Brookings community for their continued support of this event. This support has allowed our event and philanthropy efforts to grow so that we can support an organization that holds a special place in our hearts. The planning committee and members invite you to join us at the 9th annual Blue Jackets, Bright Futures Pancake Feed to enjoy some pancakes, sausage, and scrambled eggs. The event will be held at the Old Sanctuary Banquet Hall in Brookings on Sunday, April 27th from 10 a.m to 1 p.m. Plates are only $5 and children 5 and under eat free.
Sunday, April 27, 2025 • 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Old Sanctuary, Brookings, SD
$5/Plate
*Children 5 and under eat free*
Come enjoy pancakes, sausage & eggs!
All proceeds will go to the Blue Jackets, Bright Futures program.
Manager - Teigen
Hadrick is a senior majoring in animal science with minors in meat science and agribusiness marketing. He is the son of Troy and Stacy Hadrick of Faulkton, SD. Teigen previously served on the livestock transport committee for two consecutive years before elected the position of Assistant Manager.
Asst. Secretary - Abigail
Morse is a junior majoring in animal science with minors in agricultural business and agribusiness marketing. She is the daughter of John and Kristin Morse of Madison, SD. During her time in Little “I,” Abigail previously showed novice dairy and was on the scoring and tabulations committee.
Asst. Manager - Cassidy Strommen is a junior studying agricultural communications. She is the daughter of Aaron and Sheyna Strommen of Solen, ND. On campus, Cassidy is involved in NAMA, Sigma Alpha Sorority, Collegiate Cattlemens, SD State FFA Meats Judging Student Chair, and works at the Collegian.
Treasurer - Miles
Hoffman is a senior studying animal science with a minor in agribusiness marketing. He is the son of Colin and Mary Beth Hoffman from Leola, SD. Aside from Little “I”, Miles is active in Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club.
Secretary - Paige Lehrkamp is a senior majoring in agricultural education and agricultural leadership from Hermosa, SD. She is the daughter of Michael and Kori Lehrkamp. On campus, Paige is involved in Sigma Alpha Sorority and serves as an Agricultural Education Ambassador. Off campus, she is active within the South Dakota FFA as the Career Development Coordinator.
Asst. TreasurerTanner Mathiowetz is a junior majoring in agricultural business with minors in land evaluation and rural real estate and commodity risk management. He is the son of Doug and TaLana Mathiowetz of Morgan, MN. Outside of Little “I”, Tanner enjoys football games, going to the lake and farming.
Judging CoordinatorGrace Arthur is a senior majoring in agricultural communications and agricultural leadership with minors in animal science, social and digital media and professional writing. She is the daughter of Bill & Vicki Arthur of Owatonna, MN. On campus, Grace is involved in Jackrabbits Memorial, Block & Bridle and Sigma Alpha.
Equipment - Rogan Bente is a junior studying animal science from Lakeville, MN. He is the son of Jamie and Ashley Bente. On campus, Rogan is actively involved in Alpha Gamma Rho and Jackrabbits Memorial.
Asst. Judging - Cayleigh Reed is a junior majoring in animal science with a minor in equine studies. She is the daughter of Shelly Walz and Craig Reed of Piedmont, SD. Outside of Little “I”, Cayleigh’s hobbies include hunting, hiking and spending time with friends and family.
Communications Coordinator - Lauren Weishaar is a senior studying agricultural communications with minors in animal science and advertising. She is the daughter of Shawn and Sarah Weishaar of Lemmon, SD. Outside of Little “I”, Lauren owns and operates her own photography and design business, Shots by Lauren Elyse.
Livestock - Makenna Skiff is a senior majoring in animal science and dairy production from Norfolk, NE. She is the daughter of Matt and Angie Skiff. Before serving as the 101st Assistant Livestock Coordinator, Makenna was the 99th Dairy Committee Assistant and 100th Dairy Committee Superintendent.
At Large Exec Member -
Kade Wassman is a senior agricultural business major from Ormsby, MN. He is the son of Karl and Karyn Wassman. Previously, Kade served as the Agronomy Superintendent. On campus, he is involved in Agronomy and Precision Ag Club, Farmhouse Fraternity, and is a CAFES Ambassador.
Asst. LivestockLindsey Schmoll is a sophomore majoring in agricultural business with minors in animal science and graphic design. She is the daughter of Kavin and Stacy Schmoll of Wausau, WI. Lindsey was the 101st Little “I” Lamb Lead Superintendent and serves as the Assistant Wool Judging Coach.
At Large Exec Member
- Raesa Zelinsky is a sophomore majoring in animal science from Brookings, SD. She is the daughter of Rob and Christy Zelinsky. On campus, Raesa is involved in Block and Bridle, where she serves as their Prexy Council and Lamb and Wool Club. Off campus, she serves as President of the United Junior Suffolk Sheep Association.
Equipment - Kyle Hagen is a junior majoring in agricultural systems technology with minors in agricultural business and precision agriculture. He is the son of Dawn and Kevin Hagen of Glencoe, MN. Kyle is involved in Agronomy and Precision Ag Club, JATEC, CAFES Ambassador, Prexy Council, Meat Science Club and Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity. Outside of Little “I”, he enjoys hunting, fishing and tractor pulling.
Asst. Communications
- Mallory Drake is a junior majoring in agricultural leadership and agricultural communications with minors in agricultural business and agribusiness marketing. She is the daughter of Dana and Jill Drake of Comfrey, MN. On campus, Mallory is involved in Swine Club, Collegiate Farm Bureau and Collegiate FFA/Ag Ed Club.
At Large Exec Member
- Charlee Petersen is a senior studying animal science and agricultural science from Moville, IA. She is the daughter of Amy Dietrich and Bart Petersen. Charlee currently serves as the President of Meat Science Club, an employee at the SDSU Meat Lab, and has previously competed on the Meat Judging Team.
Ag in the Classroom Superintendent
- Elle Ploeger is a junior majoring in agricultural communications and animal science. She is the daughter of Lonnie and Kathy Ploeger of Pierson, IA. On campus, Elle is active in Swine Club, State-A-Thon, and serves as a student engagement officer at the SDSU Foundation. She is also a member of the Iowa Pork Collegiate Team and works at the SDSU Swine Unit.
Asst. Ag in the Classroom - Cally Faulhaber is a sophomore majoring in agricultural education and agricultural leadership with a minor in agricultural business. She is the daughter of Chuck and Sue Faulhaber of Plankinton, SD, On campus, Cally participates in Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club, Block and Bridle, Collegiate FFA/ Ag Ed Club, Collegiate Farm Bureau, and LeadState.
Ag Mechanics
Superintendent - John Dexter is a freshman majoring in agricultural systems technology. He is the son of Jo and Dale Dexter from Delta, CO. On campus, John is a member of the 1/4 Scale Tractor Team. In his spare time, he enjoys exploring various aspects of ag mechanics and refining his skills with equipment.
Ag Sales
Superintendent - Payten Benda is a junior studying agricultural science with minors in animal science and agricultural business. She is the daughter of Matthew and Gretchen Benda of Jackson, MN. Her past Little “I” experience includes showing a pig and winning the reserve champion swine showman. On campus, Payten is involved in Jackrabbit Memorial and Block and Bridle.
Asst. Ag in the Classroom - Karley Mills is a junior majoring in agricultural education and animal science. She is the daughter of Sheila Mills from Storm Lake, IA. A returning staff member, Karley previously served as an assistant for booth and banquet. On campus, she is involved in Sigma Alpha-Sorority, Collegiate FFA/AgEd Club, Collegiate Farm Bureau, and serves as a TeachAg Ambassador for SDSU.
Asst. Ag in the Classroom - Erin Jacobson is a sophomore majoring in agronomy with minors in agricultural business and marketing. She is the daughter of Erik and Heidi Jacobson of New Richland, MN. On campus, she is involved in Dairy Club and Agronomy Club. After exhibiting a dairy heifer last year, Erin was inspired to take on a larger role in Little International.
Asst. Ag MechanicsJacob Post is a freshman majoring in agricultural science. He is the son of Doug and Ginger Post from Volga, SD. On campus, Jacob is actively involved in FFA and the National Holstein Association. In his free time, he enjoys tinkering with small engines and exploring various mechanical projects.
Asst. Ag Sales - Carli Vigesaa is a freshman majoring in agronomy and precision agriculture. She is the daughter of Jesse and Janelle Vigesaa of Barnesville, MN. On campus, Carli is involved in Agronomy and Precision Ag Club and Swing Dance.
Asst. Ag in the Classroom - Meta Tewes is a junior majoring in agricultural education and animal science. She is the daughter of Jeffrey and Jennifer Tewes of Jackson, MN. On campus, Meta is involved in Sigma Alpha, serves as a College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences Ambassador, and is a member of the FFA/Ag Ed Club.
Asst. Ag in the Classroom - Madelyn Caulfield is a freshman majoring in animal science and political science. She is the daughter of James and Ann Caulfield from Bradley, SD. On campus, Madelyn is active in the Pre-Veterinary Medicine Club, Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club, and Block and Bridle.
Asst. Ag Mechanics - Zachary Connor is a freshman majoring in animal science. He is the son of Matthew Connor from Howard, SD. On campus, Zach is involved in Alpha Gamma Rho. He also remains active in the National FFA Organization and 4-H. In his free time, he enjoys hunting, farming, and engaging in various aspects of agriculture.
Agronomy
Superintendent - Luke Gordon is a senior majoring in agriculture systems technology. He is the son of Bill and Dawn Gordon of Worthington, MN. On campus, Luke serves as a CAFES Ambassador, the Vice President of Prexy Council, and is a member of the Agronomy and Precision Ag Club, JATEC, and Pride of Dakota’s Marching Band.
Asst. Agronomy - Macey Filipek is a freshman majoring in animal science. She is the daughter of Amanda and Clint Filipek of McClusky, ND. Outside of Little “I”, Macey’s hobbies include showing cattle and sheep at the county and state level.
Asst. Awards - Olivia Hadrick is a freshman studying animal science. She is the daughter of Troy and Stacy Hadrick of Faulkton, SD. Outside of Little “I”, Olivia is active in Sigma Alpha Sorority and Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club.
Asst. Beef - Tessa Ellensohn is a sophomore animal science student. She is the daughter of Nicki Sitzmann and Eric Ellensohn of Le Mars, IA. She has previously served on the beef committee and shown a goat in Little I. On campus, Tessa is actively involved in ACT, Block and Bridle, and the Jacks Classic.
Booth and Banquet
SuperintendentSamantha Moser is a junior studying animal science and agricultural communications. She is the daughter of Stuart and Karin Moser of Beaver Creek, MN. On campus, Samantha is active in Swine Club and Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club, and is an agricultural reporter for The Collegian.
Awards Superintendent - Dellana Muck is a senior studying agronomy with minors in agricultural business and crop protection. She is daughter of Dale and Suzette Muck of Caledonia, IL. Previously, she was a member of the fundraising and livestock judging committees. On campus Dellana is active in Sigma Alpha Sorority and Agronomy and Precision Ag Club.
Beef SuperintendentCarter Sanny is a junior studying ag science, with minors in animal science and ag business. He is the son of Eric and Stacia Sanny of Bondurant, IA. He has previously served on the Little I beef committee and shown a bull. Carter’s hobbies include hunting, fishing, and working with livestock.
Asst. Beef - Katie Van Den Top is a sophomore studying agricultural science, with minors in animal science, agricultural marketing, and agricultural business. She is the daughter of Brent and Amy Van Den Top of Hull, IA. Outside of Little “I”, Katie is active in Block and Bridle and Alpha Xi Delta.
Asst. Booth and Banquet - Alivia Danner is a senior studying animal science. She is the daughter of Missy Danner of Estherville, IA. Outside of Little “I”, Alivia is active in Block and Bridle and Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club.
Asst. Awards - Kalyssa Schock is a junior studying agricultural communications. She is the daughter of Vance and Patty Schock of Baldwin, ND. Before transferring, Kalyssa was involved with NDSU’s Little I. On campus, she is active in Sigma Alpha Sorority.
Asst. Beef - Gloria Hansen is a junior agricultural science student with minors in animal science and agricultural business. She is the daughter of Corey and Kaye Hansen of Austin, MN. She has previously shown a bull in Little “I”, and served on the beef committee. On campus, Gloria is active in Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club and Agronomy and Precision Ag Club.
Asst. Beef - Taylor Lacek is a junior double majoring in agricultural business and agricultural communications, with a minor in public relations. She is the daughter of Mary Kay Caraway and Mark Lacek of Canby, MN. On campus, Taylor is active in Block and Bridle, Collegiate Cattlemen’s, Women in Meat Industry Network, and National Cattlemen’s Beef Association.
Asst. Booth and Banquet - Hannah Highum is a sophomore studying animal science. She is the daughter of Steve and Jody Highum of Peterson, MN. On campus, Hannah is active in Pre-Vet Club, Collegiate Farm Bureau, and Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club.
Asst. Booth and Banquet - Kaitlyn Pelster is a junior studying animal science with minors in agricultural business, equine studies, and ranch management. She is the daughter of Dean and Michelle Pelster of Petersburg, NE. On campus, Kaitlyn is active in Alpha Zeta Honors Fraternity. Her favorite hobby includes traveling.
Asst. Catalog - Grace Sargent is a sophomore studying agricultural communications and agricultural leadership with a minor in political science. She is the daughter of Doug and Trish Sargent of Pierre, SD. On campus, Grace is active in SDSU Republicans, ACT, Navigators, and the Residence Hall Association.
Asst. Catalog - Makenzie Alberts is a senior doublemajoring in agricultural communications and agricultural leadership. She is the daughter of Eric and Angie Alberts of Pine Island, MN. On campus, Makenzie is active in dairy club, CAFES Ambassadors, and serves as the Communications Intern for the National Dairy Shrine.
Asst. Dairy - Dillion Sparrgrove is a sophomore studying dairy production. He is the son of Ryan and Bre Sparrgrove of Elk Mound, WI. Outside of Little “I”, Dillion is active in Dairy Club and FarmHouse Fraternity.
Asst. Booth and Banquet - Kendahl Andresen is a sophomore animal science major with a minor in chemistry. She is the daughter of Randall and Tiffany Andresen of Mankato, MN. On campus, Kendahl serves as the social media coordinator for the Medical Anatomy and Surgery Club and is a member of Dr. Menezes’ research team.
Asst. Catalog - Ella Stiefvater is a junior studying agricultural communications. She is the daughter of Mike and Carie Stiefvater of Salem, SD. On campus, Ella is active in CAFES Ambassadors, Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club, Collegiate Farm Bureau, Swine Club, Jacks Classic, and a producer for The Collegian Report.
Dairy SuperintendentAllison Wright is a senior studying agricultural communications and animal science. She is the daughter of Paul and Heather Wright of Hutchinson, MN. On campus, Allison is active in Sigma Alpha Sorority, Dairy Club, Collegiate Farm Bureau, Dairy Judging Team, and hosts an ag radio show called “On-Farm Time”.
Asst. Dairy - Devin Zellmann is a sophomore majoring in mechanical engineering. He is the son of David and Denise Zellmann of Young America, MN. On campus, Devin is involved in Dairy Club and Farmhouse Fraternity. He enjoys fishing, hunting and working on his family’s dairy farm back home.
Catalog Superintendent - Kristen Smith is a senior studying agricultural communications. She is the daughter of Rob and Suzanne Smith of College Springs, IA. Outside of her academic pursuits, she is active in National Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow, Sigma Alpha, CAFES Ambassadors, AFA, The Collegian and CAFES Marketing and Communications.
Asst. Catalog - Emma Heiden is a sophomore studying agricultural communications, with minors in animal science and agricultural business. She is the daughter of Tony and Jessica Heiden of Rushford, MN. On campus, Emma is active in Block and Bridle, Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club, ACT, and Collegiate Farm Bureau.
Asst. Dairy - Wyatt Zehr is a junior majoring in dairy manufacturing. He is the son of Gary and Tricia Zehr of Pontiac, IL. On campus, Wyatt is involved in Dairy Club and FarmHouse Fraternity. His hobbies include showing dairy cattle nationally and hunting.
Dairy Judging SuperintendentJosie Sutherland is a senior studying dairy production with a minor in agribusiness marketing. She is the daughter of David and Dawn Sutherland of Flandreau, SD. Outside of Little “I”, Josie is involved in Dairy Club, MN Holstein Association, Oasis, and serves as the SD State FFA Dairy Judging Chair.
Asst. Dairy Judging
- Beth Holst is a sophomore studying agricultural science. She is the daughter of Jary and Celene Holst of Kellogg, MN. On campus, Beth is active in Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club, Collegiate Farm Bureau, Block and Bridle, and Lamb and Wool Club.
Entertainment
SuperintendentDanesa Willson is a senior agricultural communications major with minors in political science, journalism and professional writing. She is the daughter of Todd Willson and Rhonda Madsen of Harrisburg, SD. On campus, Danesa is active in Sigma Alpha Sorority.
Asst. Entertainment
- Paige Foster is a sophomore studying dairy manufacturing with a minor in animal science. She is the daughter of Joel and Bonnie Foster of Brookings, SD. On campus, Paige is active in Lamb and Wool Club, Dairy Club, and Sigma Alpha Sorority.
Equipment
Superintendent - Alexis Rahm is a senior majoring in animal science and agricultural science with a minor in agricultural business. She is the daughter of Jason and Tamara Rahm of Turton, SD. Outside of Little “I”, Alexis can be found on the farm, in a hunting blind or hanging out with her friends.
Dairy Products
Superintendent - Briana Maus is a senior studying dairy products with a minor in agricultural business. She is the daughter of Darrel and Lisa Maus of Freepoint, MN. On campus, Briana is active in Dairy Club, Dairy Judging Team and Alpha Zeta Honors Fraternity. Her hobbies include sightseeing and making memories with loved ones.
Asst. EntertainmentPheobe-Tate Anderson is a sophomore agricultural science major with minors in animal science and precision agriculture. She is the daughter of Weylin and Minda Anderson of California, MD. Her hobbies include service projects, leadership opportunities, and working on her family’s farm.
Equipment
Superintendent - Nate Green is a sophomore studying precision agriculture. He is the son of Kari and Mike Green of Monticello, MN. Outside of Little “I”, Nate enjoys running equipment for the university, collecting 1/64 farm models and working.
Asst. Equipment - Lillian Harpenau is a senior studying agricultural business with minors in agronomy and accounting. She is the daughter of Chad and Jill Harpenau of LeMars, IA. On campus, Lillian is active in Agronomy and Precision Ag Club, ACT and Block and Bridle. Outside of Little I, she enjoys working on the farm with her family.
Asst. Dairy Products
- Adrienne Edinger is a sophomore studying animal science. She is the daughter of Dennis and Carrie Edinger of Tully, NY. On campus, Adrienne active in Sigma Alpha Sorority, Dairy Club, Collegiate Farm Bureau, Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club, Swing Dance Club, Taylor Swift Society, and ASL Club.
Asst. EntertainmentCaleb Hauger is a junior agricultural science major with minors in agronomy, animal science and agricultural business. He is the son of Mark and Denise Hauger of Springfield, MN. On campus, Caleb is active in Agronomy Club, Swing Dance Club, and the SDSU Men’s Choir.
Equipment
Superintendent - Sam Stahl is a senior majoring in animal science with a pre-veterinary emphasis. He is the son of Todd and Erica Stahl of Canton, SD. Outside of Little “I”, Sam enjoys hunting, golfing and weightlifting.
Asst. EquipmentBrandon Gengler is a sophomore studying agricultural systems technology, with minors in agricultural business and precision agriculture. He is the son of Jeff and Stephanie Gengler of Merrill, IA. On campus, Brandon is active in Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity, Agronomy and Precision Ag Club and Swing Dance Club.
Asst. Equipment - Kory Storm is junior majoring in animal science and agricultural science with a minor in agricultural business. He is the son of Ryan and Amy Storm of Mt. Vernon, SD. On campus, Kory is involved in Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club and Swine Club. Outside of Little “I”, he enjoys working on his family farm.
Asst. EquipmentMarcus Gibbs is a junior majoring in precision agriculture. He is the son of Shawn and Danette Gibbs of Waterville, IA. Outside of Little ‘I”, Marcus is active in Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity.
Asst. Equipment - Brett Roberts is a senior studying animal science and agricultural science, with minors in agricultural business, agricultural marketing and ranch management. He is the son of Gary and Julie Roberts of Mineral Point, WI. On campus, he is active in Collegiate Cattleman’s Club and a member of the SDSU Livestock Judging Team.
Asst. EquipmentCarson Loutsch is a sophomore studying agricultural science, with minors in agricultural business and precision agriculture. He is the son of Jason and Stephanie Loutsch of Remsen, IA. On campus, Carson is active in Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity, Collegiate Cattleman’s Club, Agronomy and Precision Ag Club, Block and Bridle.
Asst. Equipment - Kevin Casper is a sophomore studying animal science, with minors in agricultural business, agribusiness marketing, agronomy, and crop protection. He is the son of Tracy and Kari Casper of Graceville, MN. Outside of Little “I”, Kevin enjoys hunting.
Floriculture
Superintendent - Abigail Bender is a sophomore double majoring in agricultural science and agricultural leadership. She is the daughter of Henry and Janelle Bender of Menno, SD. On campus, Abigail is active in Horticulture Club and Collegiate Farm Bureau. She spends her spare time working and staying active.
Farm Business Management
Superintendent - Taylor Cattin is a senior studying agricultural business with a minor in animal science. She is the daughter of Nicole and Jordan Cattin of Dutton, MT. On campus, Taylor is a member of AFA.
Asst. Floriculture - Leah Grabinski is a freshman studying elementary education. She is the daughter of David and Judy Grabinski of Faulkton, SD. On campus, Leah is a member of Sigma Alpha Sorority. She enjoys spending time with friends and family, shopping and coffee.
Asst. EquipmentCaden Bottum is a junior studying agricultural systems technology and agricultural business. He is the son of Jeremy and Amy Bottum of Tulare, SD. On campus, Caden is active in Jackrabbits Memorial, Agronomy and Precision Ag Club and CAFES Ambassadors. In his free time, he enjoys officiating SD high school football games.
Asst. Equipment - Avery Wittnebel is a senior majoring in agriculture systems technology with minors in agricultural business and agronomy. He is the son of Bart and Kelly of Nassau, MN. On campus, Avery is involved in Agronomy and Precision Ag Club and JATEC Club.
Asst. Farm Business Management - Hadli Heim is a freshman studying agricultural business. She is the daughter of Greg and Jodi Heim of St. Charles, MN. On campus, Hadli is active in Block and Bridle.
Fundraising SuperintendentSydney Heins is a senior studying animal science with a minor in biology. She is the daughter of Kent and Michelle Heins of Wayzata, MN. Aside from Little “I”, Sydney is active in Sigma Alpha Sorority. In her free time, she enjoys reading and showing Hereford cattle.
Asst. FundraisingAubie Hartman is a junior studying elementary education. She is the daughter of Luke and Mindy Hartman of Akron, IA. On campus, Aubie is active in Sigma Alpha Sorority and State-A-Thon.
Asst. FundraisingGabrielle Fink is a senior studying agricultural communications with minors in professional writing, agribusiness marketing and legal studies. She is the daughter of Christopher and Rochelle Fink of Plankinton, SD. On campus, Gabrielle is active in Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club and Students’ Association.
Goat Superintendent - Lilli Steeke is a sophomore double majoring in elementary education and agricultural communications with minors in digital and social media. She is the daughter of Trevor and Misty Steeke of Rhame, ND. On campus, Lilli is active in Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club, Block and Bridle, and Lamb and Wool Club.
Asst. Goat - Grace Kaehler is a freshman studying agricultural education. She is the daughter of Kyle and Kala Kaehler of Kandiyohi, MN. Outside of her academic pursuits, Grace enjoys showing goats, working out and bow hunting.
Asst. Horse - Izabella Jansen is a sophomore studying animal science. She is the daughter of Tina and Gerard Jansen of Omaha, NE. On campus, Izabella is active in PreVet Club, Horse Club, Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club, and Dairy Club. Her hobbies include riding and showing horses, trap shooting, and hanging out with friends.
Asst. Goat - Kacy Goehring is a sophomore studying agricultural science. She is the daughter of Scott and Kristi Goehring of Parkston, SD. Outside of Little “I”, Kacy is active in Rodeo Club, Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club and Block and Bridle.
Asst. Fundraising - Payton Sailor is a sophomore studying agricultural education with a minor in animal science. She is the daughter of Tim and Miranda Sailor of Conger, MN. On campus, Payton is active in ACT and Block and Bridle.
Asst. Goat - Janae Olson is sophomore double majoring in agricultural business and agricultural science. She is the daughter of Barry and Darla Olson of Chancellor, SD. outside of Little “I”, Janae is active in Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club, Block and Bridle and Oasis.
Horse Superintendent - Ella Feldman is a junior studying agricultural education and spanish. She is the daughter of Matt and Chris Feldman of Northfield, MN. On campus, Ella is active in Collegiate FFA and Ag-Ed Club.
Asst. Horse - Justine Eisenmenger is a junior studying animal science and agricultural science student with a minor in equine studies. She is the daughter of Trevor and Kristine Eisenmenger of Welcome, MN. Aside from Little “I”, Justine is active in Horse Club.
Asst. Horse - Chloe Groe is a freshman studying animal science with minors in animal health and agricultural business. She is the daughter of Mandy and Sean Groe of Blue Earth, MN. Aside from her academic pursuits, Chloe enjoys riding horses competitively, hunting and volunteering her time wherever she can.
Horse Judging Superintendent - Anna Moser is a senior studying animal science with a pre-veterinary emphasis. She is the daughter of Deon Moser and Milissa Wolf of Aberdeen, SD. On campus, Anna is active in Sigma Alpha Sorority, Pre-Vet Club and Alpha Zeta Honors Fraternity.
Asst. Horse Judging - Reese McKenna is a junior studying animal science with a preveterinary emphasis. She is the daughter of Patrick and Kristie McKenna of Belle Fourche, SD. On campus, Reese is active in Pre-Vet Club, Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club and Block and Bridle. Her hobbies include rodeo and spending time with family and friends.
Asst. Judging Coordinator - Mason Grams is a sophomore studying animal science and agricultural science. He is the son of Kyle and Jill Grams of Buffalo Lake, MN. On campus, Mason is active in Swine Club, Jacks Classic, Block and Bridle and Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club. His hobbies include spending time with family and friends, bonfires, and lake days.
Livestock Judging Superintendent - Drew Stock is a junior studying animal science. He is the son of Mark and Stacy Stock of Waukon, IA. Aside from Little “I”, Drew is active in Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club, where he serves as the Treasurer, and FarmHouse Fraternity.
Asst. Livestock Judging
- Cassandra Twedt is freshman studying animal science. She is the daughter of Bridget and Jason Twedt of Beresford, SD. Outside of her academic pursuits, Cassandra enjoys showing cattle.
Judging Coordinator SuperintendentJordy Van De Stroet is a freshman studying agricultural education. She is the daughter of John and Melanie Van De Stroet of Fairview, SD. Outside of Little “I”, Jordy is active in Collegiate FFA/AgEd Club, Dairy Club, Pride of the Dakotas Marching Band, and serves as a South Dakota State FFA Ambassador.
Lamb Lead
Superintendent - Lexi Gloege is a sophomore studying animal science with an industry relations specialization. She is the daughter of Christie and Lee Gloege of Bellingham, MN. Aside from her active involvement on campus, Lexi enjoys spending time with family and friends and working on the farm.
Asst. Judging Coordinator - Aurora Peters is a junior studying animal science with a preveterinary emphasis. She is the daughter of Paula Peters of Whittemore, IA. On campus, Aurora is active in Swine Club, Pre-Vet Club, Sigma Alpha Sorority and Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club. Her hobbies include working on the family farm and raising show cattle.
Asst. Lamb Lead - Miriana Eiden is a sophomore studying dairy production. She is the daughter of Pete and Mary Eiden of Buffalo, MN. Aside from Little “I”, Miriana is active in Dairy Club and a member of Minnesota FFA and 4-H.
Asst. Livestock Judging - Edwin Pluimer is a senior studying agricultural science. He is the son of John and Erica Pluimer of Montpelier, IN. On campus, Edwin is active in Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club and Block and Bridle.
Asst. Livestock Judging - Cailey Sime is a freshman studying animal science with a minor agricultural business. She is the daughter of Kent and Susan Sime of Milbank, SD. On campus, Cailey is active in Swine Club, Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club, Block and Bridle. One of her hobbies include showing livestock.
Asst. Livestock Judging
- Kenidey Effling is a freshman studying animal science. She is the daughter of Chris and Kristi Effling of Highmore, SD. Outside of Little “I”, Kenidey is involved in Block and Bridle, FFA, 4-H, and junior beef breed associations.
Livestock
Transportation
Superintendent - Tyler Anderson is a junior majoring in agronomy and precision agriculture. He is the son of Tim and Holly Anderson of South Sioux City, NE.
Asst. Livestock
Transportation - Dylan Zellman is a senior studying civil engineering. He is the son of David and Denise Zellmann of Norwood Young America, MN. On campus, Dylan is active in FarmHouse Fraternity, and the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE).
Meat Products
SuperintendentQuinlyn Dykstra is a junior studying animal science with a minor in food safety. She is the daughter of Aaron & Rene Dykstra of Mattawan MI. Outside of Little “I”, Quinlyn is active in Dairy Club and the American Dexter Association. Her hobbies include fishing, riding motorcycle and spending time with family and friends.
Asst. Meats JudgingGavin Romshek is a junior majoring in agricultural science and food science. He is the son of Tony and Dani Romshek of Shelby, NE. Outside of Little “I”, Gavin is active in Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club and the Meat Science Program.
Asst. Media and Website - Alyssa Schumacher is a sophomore studying agricultural business. She is the daughter of Neal and Niki Schumacher of Kennard, NE. On campus, Alyssa is active in Block and Bridle and Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club.
Asst. Livestock
TransportationMaddox Christensen is a freshman studying agricultural science with a minor in agricultural business. He is the son of Shane and Kris Christensen of Alden, MN. Outside of his studies, Maddox enjoys hunting, snowmobiling and riding dirtbike.
Asst. Meat ProductsBraylee Wolff is a junior studying animal science and agricultural science, with minors in agronomy, agricultural business and agribusiness marketing. She is the daughter of Craig and Michelle Wolff of Westfield, WI. Outside of Little “I”, Braylee is active in Agronomy and Precision Ag Club, AFA and CAFES Ambassadors.
Media and Website
Superintendent
- Merissa Meyer is a sophomore studying agricultural communications, with minors in advertising, digital and social media, and marketing. She is the daughter of Mark and Tera Meyer of Morristown, SD. Outside of Little “I”, Merissa owns Rockin’ M, a photography, videography and design company.
Milk Quality & Products
SuperintendentBrooke (Moorse) Syring is a junior studying agricultural education. She is the daughter of Greg and Becky Morse of Minneota, MN. On campus, Brooke is active in Dairy Club and ACT.
Asst. Livestock
Transportation - Andrew Timm is a freshman studying animal science, with minors in agricultural business and ranch management. He is the son of Ryan and Tiffany Timm of Adams, MN. Outside of Little “I”, Andrew enjoys showing cattle, staying active within the Junior Hereford Association and playing sports.
Meats Judging Superintendent - Kansas Kroll is a junior studying agricultural science, with minors in animal science, agricultural business, ranch management, agribusiness marketing, and meat science. She is the daughter of Craig and Lisa Kroll of Andover, SD. Outside of her academic pursuits, Kansas enjoys spending time with family and friends, working on the family farm, and going to cattle shows.
Asst. Media and Website - Gabi Joos is a junior studying agricultural communications with minors in digital and social media, public relations, and communication studies. She is the daughter of Shane and Bridget Joos of Hancock, MN. On campus, Gabi is involved in Sigma Alpha Sorority, ACT and Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club.
Asst. Milk Quality & Products - Hayley Daubert is a junior studying dairy manufacturing with minors in health science, biology and food safety. She is the daughter of Jeremy and Becky Daubert of Dayton, VA. Outside of Little “I”, Haley is active in Dairy Club, Emergency Medical Services Club, and the Virginia Junior Holstein Association.
Natural Resources Superintendent - Thea
Klarenbeek is a senior studying wildlife and fisheries with a minor in rangeland ecology and management. She is the daughter of Brad and April Klarenbeek of Tea, SD. On campus, Thea is involved in the American Fisheries Society and the Wildlife and Fisheries Conservation Club.
Asst. Nursery
Landscape - Wyatt
Glessing is a freshman studying precision agriculture with minors in political science and dairy industry. He is the son of Dan and Seena Glessing of Waverly, MN. On campus, Wyatt is active in JATEC, Dairy Club, Agronomy and Precision Ag Club, Collegiate FFA and Collegiate Farm Bureau.
Asst. Photography
- Ava Schoenfeld is a freshman studying animal science with minors in agribusiness marketing, public relations and meat science. She is the daughter of Keith Schoenfeld and Jen Boersma of Lake Benton, MN. Outside of Little “I”, Ava is active in Block and Bridle, Swine Club and Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club.
Asst. Poultry - Kevin Weller is a freshman majoring in animal science. He is the son of Matthew and Angela Weller of Redfield, SD. Kevin enjoys hunting, spending time with family and friends, and helping with livestock on the family farm.
Asst. Natural Resources
- Carson Gunnerson is a junior studying agricultural systems technology with minors in animal science and agricultural business. He is the son of Norm and Liza Gunnerson of Peterson, IA. Outside of Little “I”, Carson enjoys hunting and fishing.
Photography
Superintendent - Jenna
Batka is a sophomore majoring in agricultural and biosystems engineering with minors in agricultural business and marketing. She is the daughter of John and Kristi Batka of Ault, CO. On campus, Jenna is a member of Navigators Club, serves as a photographer for Jacks Athletics and mentors fellow students in the agriculture and biosystems engineering department.
Asst. Photography
- Jaleigh Hallsted is a sophomore studying agricultural communications. She is the daughter of Travis and Heidi Hallsted of Pender, NE. On campus, Jaleigh is active in Swine Club, Block and Bridle and Jackrabbits Memorial. She also operates Show Shotz Photography and enjoys showing cattle.
Promotional SuperintendentMadison Weishaar is a senior studying agricultural communications and animal science, with an industry-relations specialization. She is the daughter of Shawn and Sarah Weishaar of Lemmon, SD. On campus, Madison is active in Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club and Alpha Zeta Honors Fraternity.
Nursery Landscape Superintendent - Megan Stiefvater is a junior studying agricultural science and agricultural leadership with minors in animal science and agricultural business. She is the daughter of Kurt and Kathy Stiefvater of Salem, SD. On campus, Megan is active in Dairy Club, Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club, ACT and serves as a CAFES Ambassador.
Asst. Photography - Kaci Bradshaw is a sophomore majoring in agricultural communications with minors in animal science and digital and social media. She is the daughter of Danny Bradshaw and Andrea Ziebell of Hubbard, IA. Outside of Little “I”, Kaci is involved in the Iowa Junior Angus Association, National Junior Angus Association, and the Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club.
Poultry Superintendent
- Madison Hofer is a senior majoring in animal science with a minor in animal health. She is the daughter of Wayne and Kristi Hofer of Freeman, SD. On campus, Madison is active in Lamb and Wool Club, Alpha Zeta Honors Fraternity and Pre-Vet Club. In her free time, she enjoys playing pickleball, golfing, and showing livestock.
Promotional Superintendent - Izzy O’Rourke is a senior agricultural business major with minors in animal science, agribusiness marketing and communication studies. She is the daughter of Darren and Renae O’Rourke of Wells, MN. Outside of Little “I”, Izzy is active in Swine Club, CAFES Ambassadors and intramural sports.
Asst. Promotional - Olivia Bork is a sophomore studying animal science with a pre-veterinary emphasis. She is the daughter of Stacey and Lisa Bork of Valley Springs, SD. On campus, Olivia is active in Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club, Block and Bridle, Pre-Vet Club and Pheasants Forever. Her hobbies include baking, hunting, fishing and hanging out with loved ones.
Asst. PromotionalBrielle Ruen is a junior studying agricultural communications with a minor in human development and family studies. She is the daughter of Eric and Kristi Ruen of Lanesboro, MN. On campus, Brielle is active in Block and Bridle and Swine Club.
Red Barn Reception
Superintendent - Amelie Blakely is a sophomore studying animal science with a minor in animal health. She is the daughter of Chris and Julie Blakely of Sylvania, OH. On campus, Amelie is active in Pre-Vet Club and serves as an admissions ambassador.
Risk Management
SuperintendentBlazden Mueller is a senior majoring in animal science with a preveterinary emphasis, with a minor in animal health. She is the daughter of Shamba Schmidt and Phil Mueller of Big Lake, MN. On campus, Blazden is active in Sigma Alpha Sorority, Swine Club, Lamb and Wool, State-A-Thon and Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club.
Asst. PromotionalAnna Kragerud is a freshman studying animal science with a science specialization. She is the daughter of Ryan and Andre Kragerud of Longmont, CO. On campus, Anna is active in Block and Bridle and Swine Club.
Range SuperintendentMegan Sanders is a junior studying agricultural business with minors in animal science, agribusiness marketing, land evaluation and rural real estate. She is the daughter of Carl and Kari Sanders of Oral, SD. Outside of Little “I”, Megan serves as the President of Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club.
Asst. Red Barn Reception - Mackenzie Steinbrecher is a sophomore studying animal science with a pre-veterinary emphasis, with minors in agricultural business and equine studies. She is the daughter of Bob and Katie Steinbrecher of Yankton, SD. On campus, Mackenzie is active in Horse Club and Pre-Vet Club.
Asst. Risk Management
- Sage Mortenson is a senior studying animal science with minors in animal health, biology and microbiology. She is the daughter of Yvonne Lorenz from Groton, SD. On campus, Sage is active in Pre-Vet Club, Lamb and Wool Club, Honors College Student Organization and serves as the community service chair for Alpha Zeta Honors Fraternity.
Asst. PromotionalMadison Simon is a sophomore studying psychology with minors in human development and family studies and health science. She is the daughter of Josh and Angie Simon of Preston, MN. On campus, Madison is active in Block and Bridle. Her hobbies include showing pigs.
Asst. Range - Benjamin Storm is a freshman studying conservation plan/park management with a minor in criminal justice. He is the son of Kendra and Patrick Storm of Summerset, SD. Outside of Little “I”, Benjamin serves as the 2024-2025 South Dakota FFA State Sentinel.
Asst. Red Barn Reception - Jessica Joens is a sophomore studying animal science with a production management specialization. She is the daughter of Lora Joens of Rapid City, SD. Outside of Little “I”, Jessica is active in Swine Club, Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club and Collegiate FFA/Ag Ed Club.
Scoring & Tabulations
Superintendent - Riley Hetzel is a junior majoring in civil engineering. She is the daughter of Caroline and Dallas Hetzel of Austin, MN. On campus, Riley is active in the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and Agronomy Club. Her hobby includes showing Angus cattle.
Asst. Scoring & Tabulations- Kayleen Kulas is a sophomore studying animal science with minors in agricultural business, agribusiness marketing and leadership. She is the daughter of Jonathan and Amy Kulas of Houston, MN. On campus, Kayleen is involved in Block and Bridle, Swine Club, Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club and Dairy Club.
Sheep Superintendent - Emily Robbins is a sophomore studying agricultural business with minors in agribusiness marketing and land valuation and rural real estate. She is the daughter of Dan and Susan Robbins of Elkton, SD. On campus, Emily is active in Collegiate Farm Bureau, Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club, CAFES Ambassadors, Lamb and Wool Club, Block and Bridle and Students Association.
Asst. Sheep - Maya Howard is a freshman studying agricultural education. She is the daughter of Chris and Amy Howard of Miller, SD. On campus, Maya is active in FFA/Ag Ed Club, Lamb and Wool Club and Cru. Outside of Little “I”, she serves as the 2024-2025 South Dakota FFA State President. Her hobbies include spending time with loved ones, traveling and caring for her Babydoll flock.
Asst. Silent AuctionRachel Teunissen is a junior studying agricultural communications with minors in animal science and agricultural business. She is the daughter of Terry and Shardell Teunissen of Alvord, IA. Outside of Little “I”, Rachel is active in Swine Club, Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club and CAFES Ambassadors.
Asst. Scoring & Tabulations - Brianna Howk is a sophomore majoring in animal science with a minor in production management. She is the daughter of Chris Howk and Jennifer Mackenthun of Hamburg, MN. Outside of Little “I”, Brianna is involved in Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club and stays active within 4-H at the county level.
Asst. Sheep - Alicia Holtz is a freshman studying animal science. She is the daughter of John and Melissa Holtz of Little Falls, MN. On campus, Alicia is active in Block and Bridle, Sheep and Wool Club and Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club. Her hobbies include spending time with loved ones and showing livestock.
Silent Auction SuperintendentKassidy Roseberry is a sophomore studying animal science and agricultural leadership. She is the daughter of Mark and Leslie Roseberry of Cody, NE. On campus, Kassidy is active in SDSU Republicans and Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club. Her hobbies include fishing, helping her dad on the ranch and spending time with friends.
Soils Judging Superintendent - Blake Guenther is a sophomore studying animal science with a minor in agricultural business. He is the son of Neil and Angie Guenther of Bloomfield, NE. Outside of Little “I”, Blake is active in Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club. His hobbies include golfing, watching football and hunting.
Asst. Scoring & Tabulations - Alexa Blume is a freshman majoring in agronomy. She is the daughter of Dominic and Charlene Blume from Elbow Lake, MN. On campus, Alexa works as Dr. Nunes Lab Assistant and is a delegate for Agriculture Future of America (AFA). In her spare time, she enjoys running.
Asst. Sheep - Ethan James is a freshman studying agricultural business with minors in banking and financial services and land valuation and rural real estate. He is the son of Todd and Katie James of Corning, IA. Outside of Little “I”, Ethan is active in Collegiate Farm Bureau, Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club, Block and Bridle, FFA/ Ag Ed Club, and the National Agricultural Marketing Team.
Asst. Silent AuctionGreta Adolf is a senior studying animal science with a pre-veterinary emphasis. She is the daughter of Greg Adolf and Darcee Munsterteiger of Aberdeen, SD. On campus, Greta is active in Pre-Vet Club and Alpha Zeta Honors Fraternity. Her hobbies include baking, hunting and enjoying the outdoors.
Asst. Soils JudgingCody Williams is a sophomore studying animal science with a minor in ranch management and rangeland ecology and management. He is the son of Mark and Sandy Williams of Bonesteel, SD. On campus, Cody is active in Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club.
Asst. Soils JudgingTrevor Ruen is a junior studying agricultural science with minors in agronomy, agricultural business and agribusiness marketing. He is the son of Tim and Jody Ruen of Lanesboro, MN. Outside of Little “I”, Trevor enjoys hunting, fishing and spending time with friends and family.
Asst. Swine - Kaylee Steele is a junior studying agricultural education with minors in agronomy and animal science. She is the daughter of Ryan and Kari Steele of Utica, MN. Outside of her academic pursuits, Kaylee is active in Swine Club, Sigma Alpha Sorority, CAFES Ambassadors, Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club and Agronomy and Precision Ag Club.
Asst. Vet Science - Cole Bauer is a junior studying animal science with a pre-veterinary emphasis. He is the son of Chris and Kristie Bauer of Brownton, MN. On campus, Cole is active in Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club, Pre-Vet Club, FarmHouse Fraternity and Wildlife and Fisheries Conservation Club.
Asst. Wool JudgingMitchell VanderWal is a senior studying animal science and agricultural science. He is the son of Jeff & Beth VanderWal of Howard SD. On campus, Mitchell is active in CAFES Ambassadors, Prexy Executive Council, Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club, Animal Science Ambassadors, Lamb & Wool Club, Dairy Club and the Livestock Judging Team.
Swine Superintendent - Brynn Lozinski is a senior studying animal science with a production management specialization. She is the daughter of Chad and Sharon Lozinski of Clara City, MN. On campus, Brynn is active in Sigma Alpha Sorority, Swine Club, Jacks Classic and Alpha Zeta Honors Fraternity, in addition to completing undergraduate meat science and swine research.
Asst. Swine - Lauren Ballard is a junior studying animal science with a preveterinary emphasis. She is the daughter of Shawn and Michelle Ballard of Waiteville, WV. On campus, Lauren is active in Sigma Alpha Sorority, Swine Club, CAFES Ambassadors, Animal Science Ambassadors and Jacks Classic. Her hobbies include showing livestock, reading, hunting and spending time with loved ones.
Asst. Vet ScienceDestrie Morris is a senior studying animal science with a minor in animal health. She is the daughter of Don and Melissa Morris of Miller, SD. Outside of Little “I”, Destrie is active in Lamb and Wool Club, Pre-Vet Club and an employee at the Animal Disease and Diagnostics Labratory. Her hobbies include attending car shows, camping and spending time outdoors.
Asst. Swine - Alexis Steckelberg is a junior majoring in agricultural science with a swine science certification. She is the daughter of Karl and Tricia Steckelberg of Blooming Prairie, MN. On campus, Alexis is active in Swine Club, Jacks Classic, Dairy Club, FFA/ Ag Ed Club and Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club.
Vet Science Superintendent - Tara Feucht is a senior studying animal science with a pre-veterinary emphasis. She is the daughter of Randy and Jody Feucht of Brookings, SD. Outside of Little “I”, Tara is involved in Pre-Vet Club and Collegiate Cattlemen’s Club.
Wool Judging Superintendent - Rhea Laib is a junior studying animal science with a preveterinary emphasis. She is the daughter of Sheldon and Anita Laib of Mercer, ND. On campus, Rhea is active in Sigma Alpha Sorority, Pre-Vet Club and a member of the 2024 Meats Judging Team.
Write down who you think will be the Champion and Reserve Champion for each division. After the results are announced, compare your picks with the actual winners and see how well you did. Good luck!
Showmanship
Novice Swine
Experienced Swine
Novice Beef
Experienced Beef
Novice Sheep
Experienced Sheep
Novice Goat
Experienced Goat
Novice Horse
Experienced Horse
Novice Dairy
Experienced Dairy
Novice Dairy
Experienced Dairy
Novice Beef
Experienced Beef
Novice Sheep
Experienced Sheep
Novice Goat
Experienced Goat
Novice Horse
Experienced Horse
Join us for the
red barn reception
When: Saturday, March 29 • 2:30 to 4:30 p.m.
Where: South Dakota Agricultural Heritage Museum
Celebrate with us as we honor the 2025 Honored Agriculturalist and recognize the sponsors of the 102nd Little International.
We hope to see you there!
We are thrilled to share the results of the Seventh Annual Little International Photography Contest. Open to all SDSU students, this competition showcases the incredible talent and creativity of our campus community.
Students were invited to submit their best recent work across five categories: Nature/ Landscape, Animal, People, Black & White, and Motion/Action. Every submission was judged anonymously by an independent judge outside of SDSU, ensuring a fair and unbiased selection process. Entries were evaluated based on artistic expression, creativity, originality, and overall quality.
Congratulations to this year’s winners!
Thank you to all who participated—we look forward to seeing more great submissions next year!
1st place
“Jumping Jacks” Taken by Ean Wetzel Brookings, SD
1st place
“Heat
2nd place
“Fall Hayride”
by Madison Hofer Brookings, SD
1st place
“Kentucky Red”
2nd place
“The Final Touch”
by Kaylee Davis Hyannis, NE
2nd place
“Lost
ND
place
“The Final Moments”
by Ean Wetzel Brookings, SD
2nd place
“Watchful
1st place
“Sunset
2nd place
at the 101st little
J Bar H Welding’s line of freestanding panels are the perfect solution for a variety of needs. From building entire feedlot pens, splitting feedlot pens, temporary corrals, and much more – these panels will get the job done.
Also available at J Bar H Welding are bottomless feed bunks, freestanding windbreaks, as well as any other customer requests. Ask about our large quantity discounts!
• Reduce Heat Stress
• Maximize your Gains
• Eliminate mud from sprinkling
• These 30 x 30 heavy weight cattle shades will provide all that and more
• Tarp is heavy duty; designed with strap webbing
• We use heavy walled pipe
• 24’ long x 5’ tall
• One chain and latch attached
• Available with hinges to attach 14-gauge 1 ½” square tube gates
• Full well pipe frame 24’ long x 5’3” tall with 5 rod and 2 7/8” pipe and 5 uprights
• One chain and latch attached
• Available with hinges to attach 14-gauge 1 ½” square tube gates
Gates
• 14-gauge 1 ½” square tube
• Variety of sizes available
• One chain and latch attached
• Several hinge options available
• Add on any of our freestanding panels
• 26’ long x 4’ wide x 26” tall guardrail sides
• Steel endcaps
• 2 7/8” well pipe neck bar
• 24’ long x 8’ wide
• 2 7/8” pipe frame
• 22 gauge galvanized steel
• 8’ opening in front & vented peaks on both ends to allow fresh air
Below, you'll find scrambled letters that form the names of different CDE contests held at Little International. Your task is to unscramble the letters and figure out the names of the contests.
3.
8.
9.
Nursery Landscape 9) Wool Judging 10) Meat Products 11) Soil Judging 12) Horse Judging
Contests Judge Livestock Green Chips 1.
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
BXAZQIAXTNWNRFYCXIVI USOLAAWLUIXSKFITTING YIHRUDRXJIFGUNEHNXDJ MLEOEMMEFUGMZFYIAPTZ VFTNWDNHUJDECUSROGZH GUQYQMBIAUVGEUMMTNMF KFJQSIAAEMKTEUSFSXAH YDSQLRLNRIIAKWDCDTND EGHEILBISNSAGHABMVAW ZWRAQOCKVHRFHKCUHZGY JTFEXCGMBEIENPGCMFEX MHXGEOCGBZSPCNYKGTRK LRYWENCJQAYTJETLIQFL LQPGRTCPJTRGOSPECWDF LFNAEEOHVTGNVCUTTABK NQVUFSKBIMJNXQKAIXYS JCFMETPEDPHQIAMQAODJ UVULYSWHAYSQMECWLZNX OFAMVRQCCKSHOUIZWRRX RFDUBROOKINGSXKWKLCB
RedBarnReceptionShowmanshipGreenChipsBarn LivestockBrookingsManager ContestsFittingAlumni
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. 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. 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
Agtegra Cooperative
SoDak Labs, Inc.
Bobcat
Brookings Powersports
FarmHouse Fraternity
Granum Farms
J Bar H Welding, LLC
Mark and Susan Leddy
Pipestone
Sanken Seeds
Student Associations (SA)
Visit Brookings
Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity
Bomgaars
CBS Bio Platforms
Hadrick Ranch
Millborn/Renovo Seed
First Bank and Trust
Form-A-Feed Inc.
605 Sire & Donors
CHS of Brandon
Crystal Valley
Dakotaland Feeds
Farmers Implement & Irrigation
Farm Credit Services of America
Frontier Agri-Business
John and Kristen Morse
New Fashion Pork
Northern Plains Animal Health, PC
Rembrandt Foods
SDSU Bull Sale
Seaboard Triumph Foods
Sigma Alpha Sorority
Wright Stock Farms
Adams Land and Cattle
Alex and Cassie Heim
Beef Bucks, Inc.
Christensen Farms
Chuck and Dianne Sailor
Custom Genetic Solutions
Dacotah Bank of Aberdeen
Eagle Lake Dairy
Hoffman Herefords
Horizon View Farms
MGA Railroad Construction
Midwest Ag Supply LLC
Prairie View Vet Clinic
Prairie Wind Trailers
Richland State Bank
Rochelle Fink - GNC Design
Salem Veterinary Service
SD Pork Producers Council
SDSU Swine Club
Select Sire Member Cooperative
Show Stock Bedding
Sioux Nation Ag Center
State Bank of Chandler
Team Franz
Vince Koepp
Volga Ag Center
Wagner Herefords
Windy Ridge Veterinary Clinic PLLC
Ag Week
Big Stone A.I. Inc.
Bruce and Kim Paterson
Brookings KCountry 102.3
Brookings Register
Chad and Jill Harpenau
Chris and Julie Blakely
Christensen Broadcasting
Clark County Courier
Dawn Nagel
Hamlin County Republican
Jody Highum
Jonathan and Amy Kulas
Kari O’Neill
Kent and Faye Frerichs
Matt Gunderson
Minnesota Pork Board
Minnesota Research & Promotion Council
Minnesota Soybean Growers Association
Pizza Ranch
Susan VanderWal
The Collegian
Bryce and Mary Healy Manager
Adam and Taylor Krause
Assistant Manager
Patrick Trask
Beef Hardest Worker
Matt and Angie Skiff
Dairy Hardest Worker
Dorn J. Severtson
Sheep Hardest Worker
TexKota Panel and Gate
Goat Hardest Worker
SD Pork Promotion Council
Swine Hardest Worker
Bill and Dawn Taylor
Horse Hardest Worker
New Fashion Pork
Honored Agriculturalist
Joshua and Abbie Cribbs
Beef Team Fitting Contest
Mark and Susan Leddy
Champion Round Robin
Barry and Karen Kerkhart
Reserve Champion Round Robin
Muck Farms
High Point Upperclassman
Rosie Nold
Pete Pritchett Memorial Award
SDSU College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences (CAFES)
SD Pork Promotion Council
Explore the array of opportunities in our Departments:
Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering Agronomy, Horticulture and Plant Science
Animal Science Dairy and Food Science Natural Resource Management Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences
Academic Units: Agricultural Business and Economics Agricultural Leadership, Education, Communication and Science
