WATERTOWN, S.D.(KXLG)- The South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association (SDCA) awarded the Cattlemen of the Year and Friend of SDCA awards at the Cattlemen’s Banquet during the 76th Annual Convention and Trade Show in Pierre.
Chance Popham of Hayti received the 2024 Cattlemen of the Year award. This award recognizes an SDCA member who is active in the association or their affiliate and demonstrates leadership within the beef industry. “Chance has been a committed member of the Clark-Hamlin Cattlemen’s Affiliate and has been a driving force in fostering growth within the affiliate,” said Craig Bieber, Vice President of the SDCA. “Beyond his contributions to SDCA and the industry, he manages a successful cow/calf and feedlot.”
Roger Chase of Huron was awarded the 2024 Friend of SDCA award. This award recognizes an advocate for agriculture who may be a business, organization, media personality, or industry leader promoting agriculture, SDCA, or local Cattlemen’s affiliates.
In addition, the SDCA, in partnership with Farm Credit Services of America and the South Dakota Corn Utilization Council, announced the inaugural class of the SDCA Leadership Academy during the convention. The Leadership Academy aims to foster industry knowledge, enhance leadership, improve communication skills, and promote mentorship among emerging leaders.
Congratulations to the Inaugural Leadership Academy Class:
- Mitchell Vander Wal | Howard, SD
- Colin Geppert | Kimball, SD
- Riley Casper | Lake Preston, SD
- Addie Womack | Mitchell, SD
- Colton Buus | Canova, SD
- Maria Buus | Canova, SD
- Trevor Johnson | Centerville, SD
The participants will engage in various events, tours, interactive seminars, and experiential learning opportunities. Guided by seasoned cattle industry veterans and experts, they will connect with fellow professionals, industry leaders, and potential mentors. This environment will foster the exchange of best practices, expand professional networks, and allow opportunities to address industry-wide challenges.
“Leaders in our industry must understand the unique challenges faced by all segments of the industry – from the cow/calf producers to feedlot operators, packers, and retailers,” said Eric Jennings, SDCA Past President and chair of the SDCA Leadership Academy Steering Committee. “A comprehensive understanding of these various segments and regional experiences, coupled with effective communication, is essential in today’s dynamic landscape.”
For more information about the SDCA Leadership Academy, please contact Lorrin Naasz. Learn more about the SDCA Leadership Academy here.
The SDCA continues to advance the interests of South Dakota cattlemen through representation and promotion of the beef industry. Working together, it protects the industry, seeks solutions to industry problems, and provides a unified voice at local, state, and national levels.