Budjon Farm’s Tom Cull had an emotional day at WDE yesterday when he was presented with the highest accolade awarded to a dairy cattle showman in the US.
The Lomira producer – who farms with his wife, Kelli – was presented with the 82nd Klussendorf Award. It is given in memory of Arthur B. Klussendorf, an outstanding showman of his time and an example for all those who have followed him. It recognizes competitors who exemplify great character, sportsmanship, and dedication to dairy cattle shows. The silver trophy is designed by Tiffany Jewelers of New York City.
For the past two decades, Budjon Farms has been a dominant force in the showring, winning Premier Breeder at WDE six times. Its homebred cow, Budjon Redmarker Desire, was the 2005 Grand Champion of the Holstein Show, and Rosiers Blexy Goldwyn-ET was the 2017 Supreme Champion.
In total, Budjon has exhibited four National Supreme Champions, four WDE Grand Champions, four Royal Winter Fair Grand Champions, three North American International Livestock Expo Grand Champions, more than 180 All-American nominations, and more than 80 All-Canadian nominations. Tom was quick to recognize Kelli and his father, John, who has played a pivotal role in Budjon Farms for many years.
To be successful at this level, you have to develop a winning team with great players working from the same playbook. Tom has given many people the opportunity to learn from the family’s show program, which often showcases upwards of 40 to 50 head of cattle at major dairy shows.
Beyond Budjon Farms, Tom gives back, having been a member of the Wisconsin Holstein Association Executive Show Committee for a number of years. He was a significant contributor to WDE’s five-year strategic planning committee that convened just two years ago.
Tom was chosen by the current members of the Klussendorf Memorial Association (first formed in 1937) at its annual meeting held earlier this week in Madison.
