Brattleboro, Vt. (April 18, 2016)…Holstein Association USA has named six semifinalists for the 2016 Distinguished Junior Member (DJM) awards. The Distinguished Junior Member recognition is the highest honor given to members of the National Junior Association ages 17 to 21 who demonstrate a lifetime of commitment to the Holstein breed and involvement in a variety of activities.
This year’s semifinalists are: Matthew Kramer, St. Cloud, Wis.; Lucas Plamann, Hutchinson, Minn.; Nicole Pralle, Humbird, Wis.; Elizabeth Sarbacker, Verona, Wis.; Jordan Siemers, Newton, Wis.; and Kayla Windecker, Frankfort, N.Y.
Each of the semifinalists completed an entry book, detailing their Junior Holstein project work, involvement with their cattle, program participation, and school and community activities.
“I could never imagine my life without the dairy industry or Junior Holstein,” said Kayla Windecker of Frankfort, N.Y., in her Story of Junior Project Work. “The opportunities offered and the people I have met have become unforgettable. It is my dream to be able to give back to the industry that has helped shape and mold me into the person I am today and the person I hope to become in the future.”
“Through perseverance, hard work, and calculated decisions I’ve been able to achieve many goals as a member of the Junior Holstein Association,” Jordan Siemers, of Newton, Wis., wrote in his story. “As I transition to an adult member of Holstein Association USA, I will use the skills I learned as a Junior Holstein member for the good of our farm and for my involvement in the Association.”
The six semifinalists will interview at the National Holstein Convention, June 27- July 1 in Saratoga Springs, N.Y., where the finalists will be selected. Finalists receive annual renewed memberships to Holstein Association USA. All Junior members of Holstein Association USA ages 17 to 21 are eligible to apply for the Distinguished Junior Member recognition.
For more information about DJM or other Holstein youth programs, visitwww.holsteinusa.com/juniors, or contact Kelli Dunklee at 800.952.5200, ext. 4124 or by email atkdunklee@holstein.com.