Wisconsin Livestock Breeders Association

09/08/2026

Meet Case IH Master Stockman Alumni, Alisha Klemme 🎉

🎓Alisha graduated from the University of Minnesota in May 2025 with a Bachelor's in Animal Science. She is currently completing her Master's degree in Animal Science at the University of Minnesota, conducting research in cow-calf operations. She is not certain about what she wants to do in the future, but she knows she will continue working within the agriculture industry.

When asked if she encourages others to apply for this award, she responds, " I highly recommend applying for the Masters Stockman Award. It is a great honor and privilege to be selected for this award- no matter who you are. You don't have to come from the biggest operation in the state, or have won every award at every show across the state. You just have to have passion, integrity and determination. Do not deter away from applying just because you think someone else is more qualified. The entire experience, from pulling your application together and then the interview process is beneficial to you to set yourself up for success in your future career."

Thank you, Alisha, for sharing your accomplishments since being awarded the Case IH Master Stockman. We wish you the best of luck in your continuing education and career goals! ✨

09/07/2026

📣 WLBA Members — Got Sales?

The Wisconsin Livestock Breeders Association wants to help promote our members and their upcoming livestock sales! Whether you’re selling cattle, sheep, swine, or goats, send your sale information our way, and WLBA will help share and promote it on our social media pages.

Send us your sale date, sale ad/graphic, online sale or catalog link, and any other important details you’d like included.

🐂🐑🐖 All species are welcome!

Have a sale coming up? Send your information to WLBA and let us help spread the word!

09/04/2026

Calling all WLBA members! 📣

We want to celebrate YOU and all you accomplished this summer! 🏆

From county fairs to state fairs and everything in between, we want to highlight your success. Send us a message with your summer fair wins, photos, and a few details for a chance to be featured on our social media!

We can’t wait to see what our WLBA members accomplished in the show ring this summer! 🐮🐷🐑🐐

09/01/2026

WLBA member, and a large animal vet at Military Ridge Veterinary Service, Dr Amy Robinson advocates for rural large animal vets. Thank you Amy!

08/31/2026

🎓 Case IH Master Stockman Alumni Spotlight

Meet Lindsey Schmoll!

Lindsey is currently a senior at South Dakota State University, majoring in Agricultural Business with a minor in Graphic Design. She remains actively involved in the livestock industry through her family’s Romney sheep flock, where they raise, show, and market quality breeding stock. Her involvement with the flock has allowed her to develop valuable relationships and connections throughout the livestock industry while continuing to grow her knowledge and passion for the sheep industry. Beyond showing, Lindsey finds great fulfillment in helping 4-H members with their livestock projects, sharing her knowledge and experiences to help the next generation of young livestock enthusiasts succeed.

When asked what the Master Stockman Award has provided for her, she responds: "The master stockman award is much more than a scholarship; it allows youth in the state of Wisconsin the opportunity to strengthen their communication skills, build confidence, and connect with industry leaders during the interview process. It has been something that I have found very valuable, not because of the scholarship, but the skills and confidence I have gained along the way."

Thank you, Lindsey, for sharing how being named the Case IH Master Stockman has impacted your journey and is contributing to your success in life. We wish you the best while continuing in your agricultural education!

08/28/2026

🎓 Master Stockman Alumni Spotlight

Meet Bracen Brandt from Reedsburg, Wisconsin!

Bracen recently graduated from the University of Wisconsin - River Falls with a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Business, with a Minor in Animal Science. He moved back home and has recently accepted the role as an Insurance Agent at his local State Farm Office.

Bracen states, "Agriculture has been a passion my entire life. I’ve been fortunate enough to start building my own flock, Brandt Livestock, and helping families find, feed, and exhibit their projects. Between my family, friends, customers, and my recent start to my judging career, I’ve been very fortunate to give knowledge, advice, and an honest opinion to many across the Midwest. My life wouldn’t be what it is today without the Agricultural industry, and I look forward to paying it back in the future.

Youth should definitely apply for this award! There is no greater way to express your experiences and knowledge about your operation and the industry as a whole. The process allows you to grow and develop as a future leader when you get set into the real-world setting. All while allowing you to get rewarded for your efforts and planning for your future."

Thank you, Bracen, for sharing how being named the Master Stockman has impacted your journey and contributed to your success in life. We are grateful for the opportunity to hear your story and learn from your experiences!

08/27/2026

Wonderful tribute to Adam Massman.

08/23/2026

Entry Deadline is TODAY!

Sheep Show Entries: Early entries are due TODAY Sunday, August 23.

08/18/2026

🎓 Master Stockman Alumni Spotlight

Meet Ava Leibfried from Platteville, Wisconsin!

Ava is currently pursuing a degree in Agricultural Business with a Professional Sales Certificate at Iowa State University. Since receiving the Master Stockman Award in 2023, she has continued to build on the leadership and work ethic developed through the livestock industry. Ava remains involved in her family's Angus operation, Leibfried Land & Livestock, where they raise seedstock and commercial cattle while marketing direct-to-consumer Angus beef.

When asked why youth should apply for the Master Stockman Award, Ava shared:

"The Master Stockman Award recognizes the hard work you're already putting into the livestock industry, but it's also an opportunity to grow beyond the show ring. The application process encourages you to reflect on your experiences, build confidence in your own story, and connect with others who share the same passion for agriculture. Some of the relationships you make can last well beyond the award itself. One of the interviewers from my Master Stockman interview is now my roommate's dad—a reminder that this industry is built on relationships. You never know where one conversation or one opportunity will lead."

The Master Stockman Award celebrates young people who are committed to the livestock industry while helping prepare them for future opportunities. Ava's journey is just one example of how the skills, connections, and confidence gained through the program can continue to open doors long after the award is received.