Holstein Association USA is thrilled to announce six exceptional young adults who have been named Distinguished Junior Member (DJM) finalists. This prestigious accolade has celebrated the dedicated efforts of young individuals in the dairy industry and their work with Registered Holsteins® since 1922.
“Being named a DJM finalist is the highest honor bestowed upon a Junior Holstein Member and a highlight of the National Holstein Convention each year,” says Kelli Dunklee, Holstein Association USA Event and Program Lead. “We look forward to seeing the positive impact this impressive group of young leaders will have on the dairy industry and beyond in the years to come.”
Holstein Association USA named the DJM finalists on June 27, 2024, during the National Junior Holstein Convention Awards Banquet in Salt Lake City, Utah. Congratulations to the 2024 Distinguished Junior Member finalists!
2024 DJM Finalists:
Courtney Glenna, Amery, Wisconsin
Jacob Harbaugh, Marion, Wisconsin
Samuel Mess, Rosendale, Wisconsin
Lila Sloan, Davis, Illinois
Gabriella Taylor, Newark, New York
Keenan Thygesen, Tunbridge, Vermont
DJM judging is a two-part process. Youth members competing put together a book highlighting their Junior Holstein work, activities and projects, breeding program, and personal views. The Junior’s entry book is worth 60 percent of the final score, and the top 12 individuals are named DJM Semifinalists based on their book score.
Phase two of the contest takes place at National Junior Holstein Convention, where the semifinalists are interviewed by a committee of judges. The interview is worth 40 percent of the final score, and the six individuals with the highest combined scores are named DJM finalists.
Have all the Finger Lakes news from Finger Lakes News Radio delivered to your email every morning for FREE! Sign up by clicking here.
