The Junior Herdsman of the Year award is an honor bestowed upon one JRA member at the Red Angus Youth Expo. This award is intended for an individual who upholds the honor and dignity of a present and future cattleman or cattlewoman. The nominee’s pride in their cattle, both in the show ring and at home, should be evident to fellow members across the industry. A Junior Herdsman should serve as a role model for younger members. A positive attitude, willingness to help wherever needed, and diligent work ethic are of the utmost necessity in candidates for this prestigious honor.

Eligibility:

1. A senior JRA member between the ages of 17-21 as of January 1 of the
   current show year. The nominee must be an active JRA Member and attend the current year’s RAYE.
2. An individual may receive the award only once.
3. The online nomination form will be available on the RAYE website and JRA Facebook page. To be considered, completed nominations must be submitted by June 1st.
4. An informal interview is to be held during the RAYE. The interview score will count for 20% of the final vote on the Herdsman Award.
5. The candidates will be promoted throughout the week through announcements made during shows and contests and via social media.
6. All votes must be submitted electronically by exhibitors by midnight, Wednesday, June 11. Each exhibitor may submit one vote.
7. Should a tie arise, a selection committee will break ties.
8. The award recipient will be recognized at the Red Angus Youth Expo Awards Ceremony, and the Junior Herdsman Awards Winner will be presented with a scholarship and recognition at the RAYE Awards Ceremony.

Herdsman candidates will be announced on June 4th, 2025. Voting will open on June 9th and close on June 11th, 2025, at midnight CST.  Only one vote per valid junior member number will be allowed.