Semifinalists in the 96th Annual Holstein Association USA Distinguished Junior Member contest, a competition recognizing excellence in the Junior Holstein Association, are announced.
Established in 1922, this contest is the longest running Holstein youth program. The Distinguished Junior Member award is the highest honor given to members of the National Junior Holstein Association, ages 17 to 21, in recognition of a commitment to the Holstein breed and involvement in a variety of agriculture related activities.
The 2018 Distinguished Junior Members Semifinalists are:
- Alexandra Gambonini, Petaluma, Ca., daughter of Frank and Stacey Gambonini
- Daniel Kitchen, Danville, Pa., son of Randall and Patricia Kitchen
- Haely Leiding, Fountain, Minn., daughter of Todd and Stacy Leiding
- Kayla Leiding, Fountain, Minn., daughter of Todd and Stacy Leiding
- Samuel Minch, Green Bay, Wis., son of Glenn and Shelby Minch
- Austin Nauman, Norwalk, Wis., son of Danielle Nauman and Scott Stanford
- Erin Norris, Westhampton, Mass., daughter of Karl and Lisa Norris
- Joseph Opsal, Blue Mounds, Wis., son of Troy Opsal and Jane Sarbacker
- Taylor Pool, Robesonia, Pa., daughter of David and Martha Pool
- Nicholas Logan Potts, Purcellville, Va., son of Mike and Nancy Potts
- Mary Scott, Westgate, Iowa, daughter of Mike and Kathleen Scott
- Danielle Warmka, Fox Lake, Wis., daughter of Russ and Laura Warmka
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.
The twelve semifinalists will interview at the National Holstein Convention, June 29-July 3, 2018 in Acme, Mich. Six finalists are announced at the Junior Awards Luncheon on July 3 at the Grand Traverse Resort & Spa.
Finalists receive annual renewed memberships to Holstein Association USA. All Junior Holstein members, ages 17 to 21 are eligible to apply for the Distinguished Junior Member recognition.
For more information about the DJM contest or other Holstein youth programs, visit www.holsteinusa.com/juniors, or contact Kelli Dunklee at 800.952.5200, ext. 4124 or by email.
