South Dakota Cattlemen’s Foundation Celebrated at Beef Bowl

By Scout Nelson

The South Dakota Cattlemen’s Foundation was recently honored as the recipient of the 2024 South Dakota State University Friend of the Beef Industry award. This award recognizes the foundation’s ongoing contributions to the state’s beef industry.

“The South Dakota Cattlemen’s Foundation is humbled and honored to receive the Friend of the Beef Industry award,” said Ryan Eichler, president of the foundation.

“We’re proud to accept this honor on behalf of South Dakota beef producers who work tirelessly to provide the world with the most powerful protein on the planet.”

A nonprofit organization, the South Dakota Cattlemen’s Foundation is dedicated to promoting and supporting the beef industry through consumer education, advocacy, and charitable giving. Over the years, the foundation has provided over $100,000 in scholarships to South Dakota students enrolled at South Dakota State University (SDSU) and other institutions, supporting their pursuit of careers in the beef industry.

The foundation also facilitates the Fed Cattle Challenge, a program designed to teach youth the science and economics of cattle finishing.

“The South Dakota Cattlemen’s Foundation has had a tremendous impact on the beef industry in our state,” said Joseph Cassady, South Dakota Corn Endowed Dean of the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences.

“The organization’s commitment to advocacy, education, and community service has provided support to one of the state’s most vital industries.”

Through its annual “Prime Time Gala,” the foundation has raised over $2.7 million in donations, providing 1.5 million pounds of beef to Feeding South Dakota for distribution to food pantries.

This year alone, the foundation donated $300,000, supplying 164,000 pounds of beef to help feed South Dakotans in need.

“Whether it’s providing beef to those in need, offering scholarships, or funding research, the South Dakota Cattlemen’s Foundation is committed to supporting the state's beef industry for generations to come,” Eichler added.

The foundation was recognized on the field during the 2024 SDSU Beef Bowl football game on Sept. 14.

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