Madison Weaver of Ephrata, Pennsylvania, is the 2021 recipient of Holstein Association USA's National Judi Collinsworth Outstanding Junior Exhibitor Award. The Collinsworth Award is presented annually in honor of the Association's former Executive Director of Member and Industry Services, Judi Collinsworth.
The award recognizes youths' work and involvement with Holstein cattle and dairy activities. Recipients are selected based on sportsmanship, herdsmanship, participation in Holstein and other agricultural activities, as well as an essay describing what they have learned while exhibiting Registered Holstein® cattle. The winners at each of the National Junior Holstein Shows receive a $250 cash prize and the overall winner receives an additional $500 scholarship.
Weaver, 19, is a junior at The Pennsylvania State University studying animal science alongside agriculture communications and agribusiness management. She is active in the dairy science club, Alpha Zeta Fraternity, and is a member of the Livestock Judging team. Weaver has also served as an algebra tutor at the Penn State Berks Study Center.
"After many hours in the show barn, I have developed a strong love for raising show heifers and learned that if you find joy and dedication in your work, you will always find satisfaction. " Weaver said. "Being a Junior Holstein member has taught me to take part in something bigger than myself. Holstein Association USA opens doors, but you must walk through the door for the opportunities."
Weaver has participated widely in her state and county Holstein organizations. As a member of the Pennsylvania Junior Holstein Association, she was a 2021 Distinguished Junior Member semifinalist and has participated in Dairy Bowl on local, state, and national levels, as well as Dairy Jeopardy and Public Speaking. After college she plans to pursue a career in animal nutrition while returning to the family farm. She hopes to continue to be a leader and coach for youth in the Junior Holstein Association.
One Judi Collinsworth Award recipient is selected at each of the four National Junior Holstein Shows. Weaver won the award at Premier National Junior Holstein Show. Other winners from 2021 National Junior Holstein Shows are Elizabeth Stoltzfus, Pennsylvania, Grand National Junior Holstein Show; Briley Lenkaitis, Illinois, Southern Spring National Junior Holstein Show; and Payton Erbsen, Illinois, International Junior Holstein Show.
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