by Hallie Hackett, AJSA president
Howdy AJSA!
Each year, the AJSA National Classic has been one of the events I look forward to most. I have had the fortunate experience of attending almost every National Classic that has been held while I was eligible, along with a few Regional Classics. Of every show that I’ve been to, I have felt the strongest community of all within the AJSA. To have as many people as we do from different regions, walks of life, and in my case, breeds, come together and bond so deeply is truly special.
Coming from a family without a history in the Simmental breed or the AJSA, the National Classic, to be completely honest, was overwhelming. At nine years old, I didn’t realize just how competitive and large the AJSA was. Since then, my eyes have been opened to the endless opportunities provided by the AJSA’s unique contests and leadership positions. I have always looked up to the AJSA board, but didn’t originally think it was in the cards to run for the board myself. Changing my mind was the best decision that I could have made. I have enjoyed every experience I have had while on the AJSA board and couldn’t have asked for a better time. Most of all, the people that I have shared terms with have made a lasting impact on me. I wouldn’t be the trustee that I am today without those who have surrounded me.
Being successful in the AJSA extends far beyond the show ring, which is something that I feel immense pride in our Association for celebrating. The educational contests have always been my bread and butter; something that I found comfortable with when I might not always excel with my cattle. One thing that I will always strongly advocate for: do the contests. The benefits that I have experienced from the contests goes beyond AJSA, into my college life and career goals. I would not be the confident young adult or competitor that I am today without having done them myself.
I feel incredibly honored to have been elected by my peers to serve as this year’s AJSA president. Looking ahead, I am hopeful to improve upon the AJSA’s current success and continue to support our juniors in all of their endeavors. I hold the AJSA near and dear to my heart and treasure every connection that I have made during my time on the board. My advice to juniors reading this: do the contests, make the friends, and run for the board. .
2025–2026 American Junior Simmental Association Board of Trustees
Ella Fischer Missouri
Noah Goss Kansas
Hallie Hackett Texas
Carter Hall West Virginia
Chase Harker Indiana
Cecillia Newby Kansas
Josie Phillips Kentucky
Audrey Redalen Minnesota
Conley Schick Illinois
Anna Sweat Arkansas
Anna Webel Illinois
