The American Jersey Cattle Association (AJCA) and National All-Jersey Inc. (NAJ) have named Dan Grigson of Stanford, Ky., as the 2025 recipient of the Award for Meritorious Service.

Presented annually, the Award for Meritorious Service recognizes living individuals who, in the joint opinion of the AJCA and NAJ Boards of Directors, have made notable contributions to the advancement of the Jersey breed and to the livelihood of Jersey owners in the United States through research, education, development, marketing, or other significant activities of the allied dairy industry.

A Lifelong Advocate for Agriculture and the Jersey Breed

For more than four decades, Dan Grigson has been a steadfast advocate for dairy producers, a tireless promoter of the Jersey breed, and a driving force behind some of the country’s most prestigious dairy events. His leadership has been instrumental in the growth and prominence of The All American Jersey Show at the North American International Livestock Exposition (NAILE), where he has served as superintendent and assistant superintendent for 40 years.

“Dan has worked tirelessly to make the All American Jersey Show the premier event for Jersey exhibitors, driven by his passion for agriculture and the dairy industry,” wrote Jeff and Alta Mae Core of Salvisa, Ky., in their letter of support. “Thanks to his efforts, the Jersey show continues to be an event we all eagerly anticipate each year. Dan treats every exhibitor like family.”

Deep Roots in Agriculture

Raised on a Kentucky family farm with dairy cattle (Jerseys), beef, and tobacco, Dan developed a lifelong appreciation for the values and work ethic of rural America. He earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in agriculture and crop science from the University of Kentucky, then began a 42-year career as a county extension agent for agriculture and natural resources. Rejecting administrative positions, he chose to remain in the field where he could work directly with farmers and their communities.

Champion for Dairy Exhibitors

At NAILE and the Kentucky State Fair, Dan has been the strong, consistent voice for dairy exhibitors—advocating for schedule improvements, supporting show expansions, and implementing exhibitor feedback to enhance the experience for all. Colleagues describe him as fair, approachable, and deeply committed to making every show run smoothly.

“Mr. Grigson attends every dairy-related meeting at NAILE, which happens year-round,” noted Warren Beeler, NAILE general superintendent. “He’s open to listening to any ideas that will make the shows more successful and accommodating for the exhibitors—then he fights for those ideas as they work through NAILE’s process.”

Dan has consistently gone above and beyond his official duties, from coordinating tie-outs for cross-country exhibitors to resolving last-minute logistical challenges. Exhibitors from Kentucky to Oregon credit him with making their participation easier, more enjoyable, and more rewarding.

A Legacy of Service

Mike Stiles of Waverly Farm in Virginia described Dan as “the person who listens to the thoughts of others and tries to accommodate when possible. His title as superintendent is a job that comes with many hats—and he wears them well.”

Joe and Sarah Rocha of Tillamook, Ore., echoed the sentiment: “Dan has spent a lifetime promoting the Jersey breed and is well deserving of this award.”

Beyond his professional contributions, Dan is devoted to his family—his wife, Linda, their children David and Jennifer, and their five grandchildren.

Recognizing a True Champion

In presenting the Award for Meritorious Service, AJCA and NAJ honor Dan’s exceptional commitment to the Jersey breed, his enduring leadership in the dairy show community, and his dedication to ensuring a bright future for Jersey breeders and exhibitors nationwide.