Eight youth participated in the inauguration of the Junior National Beef Ambassador Program in Rapid City, S.D. Funded in part by the beef checkoff, the objective of this new youth program is to promote a stronger interest and clearer understanding of the many aspects of the beef industry, its values and virtues, to youth 12 to 16 years old. While preparing for the contest, students have the opportunity to gain knowledge, advocacy skills and an understanding of the importance of beef advocacy and promotion. (Photo L to R: Nolz, Mairose, Loos)

First prize was awarded to Kaley Nolz, an eighth grader from Mitchell, S.D. Nolz loves to show cattle, play sports and is active in 4-H. Erin Mairose, Kimball, S.D., earned second place. Mairose is a sophomore and lives on a ranch that has been in her family for more than 50 years. She is active in 4-H and plays the viola in the Huron Symphony Orchestra. Third place went to Libbi Loos, a seventh grader from Litchfield, Neb. Loos enjoys training, showing and riding horses. She is active in 4-H where she shows cattle and has started her own beef herd with her first show heifer.

All of these youth are encouraged to participate in the National Beef Ambassador Program’s online advocacy efforts and to continue to grow as beef advocates returning to participate in the Senior division of the National Beef Ambassador Program.