Holstein Association USA members recently gathered in Orlando, Florida, for the National Holstein Convention, held June 22-25, 2026. Themed “Holsteins in Paradise,” the event welcomed nearly 700 attendees from across the United States, Puerto Rico, Canada, and Mexico for four days of education, networking, and Association business.
“Every year, I leave National Holstein Convention energized by the people who make this Association special,” said Holstein Association USA CEO Lindsey Worden. “Whether it is watching Junior members gain confidence, hearing innovative ideas from breeders, or seeing longtime friends reconnect, the week serves as a powerful reminder of the strength and passion of the Holstein community.”
Throughout the week, attendees participated in educational sessions, networking opportunities, tours, and social events designed to strengthen connections within the Registered Holstein® community. Holstein Horizons featured educational sessions and panel discussions on genetics, herd management, technology, workforce development, and marketing. Attendees also enjoyed opportunities to connect with fellow breeders through the National Convention Sale, the Awards Luncheon, A Night of Holstein Magic, and activities in the Holstein Hub.
National Junior Holstein members were actively engaged throughout the convention, participating in contests, networking, and helping guide the direction of the Junior Association. From Dairy Bowl and Dairy Jeopardy to public speaking competitions and team-building activities, Juniors demonstrated the knowledge, leadership, and enthusiasm that will continue to shape the future of the dairy industry.
“After seeing the effect this convention has on kids, it had me hooked from the start,” said Wisconsin member Kurt Loehr. “Since then, we have made it a point to make sure our kids are involved and have the opportunity to meet other individuals who share the same interests they have.”
140th Annual Meeting
Members also heard updates from the Board of Directors and Association Committees, recognized outstanding achievements within the Holstein community, and celebrated the 2025 Herds of Excellence, Star of the Breed, and 40-Year Members. Dr. Jeffrey Bewley presented an update on today’s genetics tools, covering the April 2026 TPI® update, the new Holstein Conformation Composite (HCC), and briefly touched on future updates such as the transition to single-step genetic evaluations coming in 2027.
The meeting also marked a leadership transition for Holstein Association USA. John Burket of East Freedom, Pennsylvania, retired as President, and Spencer Hackett of Rice, Minnesota, retired as Region 6 Director following their service on the Board of Directors.
Delegates elected Dwight Rokey of Sabetha, Kansas, as President and Hank Van Exel of Lodi, California, as Vice President. Darrel Rennich of Bruce, South Dakota, was elected Region 6 Director. Re-elected to second three-year terms on the Board were Region 1 Director Elizabeth Bullard of Turner, Maine; Region 4 Director Scott Yocum of Salvisa, Kentucky; and At-Large Director Andy Lenkaitis of St. Charles, Illinois.
The 2027 National Holstein Convention will be held June 29 – July 2, 2027, in Addison, Texas. For more information about National Holstein Convention, visit www.holsteinconvention.com.
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