Colorado Simmental Association Holds Annual Meeting
Tours, honors, and networking were part of the Colorado Simmental Association’s (CSA) 55th annual meeting on November 9, 2025.
Members toured the refurbished historic Livestock Exchange Building, courtesy of Colorado Cattlemen’s Association, the nearly completed Legacy building, and peered into the huge livestock show arena, both courtesy of National Western Stock Show (NWSS) staff.
Following the early glimpse of the National Western campus changes, CSA members heard reports, including Chad Cook of Walsh giving an American Simmental Association update, and the group planning for upcoming events, including the 2026 NWSS. President Paul Hill of Nunn presented awards. Hill noted the long-term efforts of outgoing director Willie Altenburg of Fort Collins. Altenburg, who was term-limited in his most recent stint on the board, has served on CSA leadership for 26 years. Hill stated: “Willie continues to dream up ideas to make strides for CSA and our part of National Western. He pushes the rest of us to be better and think harder. To thank him for his service, we present this award, noting his exceptional role as Simmental’s leader, promoter, and innovator.”
CSA also recognized two outstanding youth with $500 scholarships to pursue their studies. Jason Dias, a Colorado State student from Fort Morgan, and Jayme Gittlein of Wauneta, Nebraska, who will be heading to Murray State, both received CSA Youth Education Grants. Gittlein, who is current Colorado Junior Simmental president, also was named Youth of the Year. Leah Clark of Monte Vista was elected to her initial three-year term as
director, with Jolynn Midcap of Wray, and Susan Russell of Sugar City, re-elected to third terms on the seven-member board. Officers were all retained. They are: Hill, president; Cody Pitt of Hotchkiss, vice-president; and Russell, secretary/treasurer. .
Members of the CSA gathered for their 55th annual meeting. The group toured the newly built Legacy building.
