Holstein Association USA has announced the finalists in the 2015 Young Distinguished Junior Member (YDJM) competition. The YDJM award is the highest honor a Holstein Association Junior member between the ages of 9 and 16 can achieve.
The eight finalists in the 2015 YDJM competition are: Nicholas Achen, Aberdeen, South Dakota; Nathan Arthur, Sumner, Iowa; Matthew Boop, Millmont, Pennsylvania; Connor Erbsen, Lanark, Illinois; Brock Irwin, Belvidere, Illinois; Isabelle Leonard, Spottswood, Virginia.; Rachel McCullough, Juda, Wisconsin; and Dawson Nickels, Watertown, Wisconsin.
To qualify, a youth must compile a book which demonstrates their involvement and leadership within the Holstein community, their school, and in other aspects of their life.
In his Story of Junior Holstein work, fifteen-year-old Nicholas Achen talked about his involvement in his community, parish, and breed associations. "With these opportunities comes responsibility, the responsibility of acting maturely and being fair and courteous to all. If I can make younger members in my community practice these qualities, I will have succeeded in being a role model," he wrote.
"Having high quality, homebred Registered Holsteins doesn't just happen," said Rachel McCullough in her story of Junior Holstein work. "They are the backbone of my future."
Finalists in the YDJM contest will be recognized at the National Holstein Convention, which will be held June 22-26 in St. Charles, Illinois. For more information about YDJM or other Holstein youth programs, visit www.holsteinusa.com/juniors, or Kelli Dunklee at 800.952.5200, ext. 4124, or by email.
4.1.2015