By Scout Nelson
Young cattlemen and women from across Kansas met in Topeka on February 16–17 for the first session of the 2026 Kansas Livestock Association Young Stockmen’s Academy. The program marks its 20th year and continues to help develop future leaders in the livestock and beef industries. Merck Animal Health remains the exclusive sponsor, supporting the program through a series of four seminars held across the state during the year.
During the first session, participants learned about the many services offered by the Kansas Livestock Association and the importance of advocacy for the livestock industry. The group received insight into the legislative process, toured the state Capitol with KLA lobbyists, observed the House of Representatives in session, and attended the annual KLA Legislative Meeting and Dinner. Members also participated in a financial planning seminar led by Pinion.
The program included communication and media training to help participants share the story of beef production with the public. KLA communications staff, Riley County beef producers and entrepreneurs Andy and Sara Larson, and WIBW-Topeka farm broadcaster Greg Akagi spoke to the group about community involvement, media engagement, and handling interviews. The Larsons shared their experience launching their direct-to-consumer business, 1880 Beef, while Akagi guided participants through mock radio and television interviews.
Members of the 2026 Young Stockmen’s Academy class include James Brack of Moscow, Sierra Cargill of Medicine Lodge, Gatlin Clawson of Meade, Brooke Falk of Harveyville, MaKala Fitzsimmons of Cunningham, Shane Flach of Manhattan, Casey Giffing of Ulysses, Hannah Grund of Wallace, Nick Higgason of Olmitz, Justine Johns of Minneapolis, Luke Kaiser of Grinnell, Adalaide Kline of Colby, Brady McComb of Pratt, Nick Nowak of Ellis, Quinton Porter of Hays, Jack Roenne of Great Bend, Skye Schumaker of Pratt, Baylee Shultz of Berryton, Teagan Sturdy-Milliken of Lyndon, and Taylee Velasquez of Hugoton.
The class will meet again in May for the second installment of the program, where members will explore agribusiness and beef retail industries in the Kansas City area. The Kansas Livestock Association represents livestock producers on legislative, regulatory, and industry issues at both state and federal levels, supported by voluntary membership dues from more than 5,500 members.
Photo Credit: kansas-livestock-foundation
Categories: Kansas, Education, Livestock, Beef Cattle