Eight Junior Holstein members have been selected for Holstein Association USA’s annual Young Distinguished Junior Member (YDJM) competition. The Young Distinguished Junior Member award is the highest honor given to members of the National Junior Holstein Association, ages 9 to 16.
Launched in 2004, the award recognizes the accomplishments of these young, aspiring dairy leaders. Youth members are selected based on their dedication to working with Registered Holsteins, achievements and leadership in Holstein activities, and school and community involvement.
The 2023 Young Distinguished Junior Member Finalists are:
- Sarah Craun, Mount Crawford, Virginia
- Cathryn Gunst, Pine River, Wisconsin
- Christopher Gunst, Pine River, Wisconsin
- Kiara Konyn, Escondido, California
- Mykel Mull, Chowchilla, California
- Jesslyn Risser, Lebanon, Pennsylvania
- Dylan Ryan, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
- Alexis Schultz, Marion, New York
The eight finalists were chosen by a panel of judges based on their knowledge of the dairy industry and participation in Holstein, dairy, and other activities. Their ability to be a good role model for other youth and positive spokesperson for the dairy industry were also taken into consideration.
The YDJM finalists will be honored at the National Holstein Convention being held June 23 to June 27, 2023, in Lexington, Kentucky.
For more information or to register for the 2023 National Holstein Convention visit www.2023nationalholsteinconvention.com. To learn more about the Young Distinguished Junior Members or Junior Holstein Association visit www.holsteinusa.com/juniors.