By Scout Nelson
South Dakota State University (SDSU) students studying dairy and food science are celebrating big wins after excelling in national dairy judging competitions this spring. Their strong performances brought national recognition to the university.
The SDSU Dairy Cattle Judging Team placed first overall at the North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture Judging Conference in Canyon, Texas. This contest teaches students how to evaluate dairy cattle breeds and explain their choices with reasons.
Evelyn Scheffler ranked highest overall, Vanessa Gonzalez placed first in reasons and third overall, while Dillion Sparrgrove finished in 10th place. The team is coached by faculty member Turner Swartz and plans to join more contests in the 2025–26 academic year.
The Dairy Products Judging Team also had a great showing, finishing second overall at the 101st Collegiate Dairy Products Evaluation Contest in Madison, Wisconsin. This event tests students on their ability to judge dairy items like milk, cheese, yogurt, and ice cream. Undergraduates Emma Mulhern, Brianna Moss, Tucker Anderson, and Lauren Steffl, along with graduate student Zeel Modi, made up the team.
Mulhern ranked fourth, Moss placed eighth, and Anderson took ninth in overall products. Graduate student Modi earned first place in all product categories. The team is coached by Professor Maneesha Mohan and supported by several SDSU staff members.
The SDSU Dairy Challenge Team placed fourth at the North American Intercollegiate Dairy Challenge in Gainesville, Florida. The competition challenges students to analyze dairy farm operations and suggest improvements. Team members included Randall Winch, Hayley Daubert, Briana Maus, and Emma Eggenberger, with coaching from faculty and a local dairy producer.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-jesp62
Categories: South Dakota, Education, Livestock, Dairy Cattle