Kaskaskia College Dairy Judging Team Shines on International Stage

Kaskaskia College's Dairy Judging Team has garnered international acclaim by winning the International Postsecondary Dairy Judging Contest at the 2023 World Dairy Expo in Madison, WI. This victory led to an invitation to represent the United States on the International Dairy Tour in Scotland and Ireland, an opportunity that has provided the students with unparalleled experiences and insights into global agriculture.

In June 2024, the KC Dairy Judging Team embarked on the International Dairy Tour, where they not only competed but excelled. At the prestigious Scottish Royal Highland Show, the team achieved remarkable success, finishing 1st and 3rd in their categories, marking Kaskaskia College's first international win.

The International Dairy Tour was a tremendous experience for our students, and we were so fortunate and proud to represent American agriculture abroad, said KC Agriculture Professor Aaron Heinzmann. Global networking in our agricultural community is such a valuable learning opportunity, as we can always grow from understanding different management practices and markets for dairy and agricultural products. I am so grateful for the opportunity provided to travel with these students by our donors, especially the KC Collegiate Farm Bureau and Agriculture Club, who really stepped up to support fellow students.

Throughout the tour, the students had the chance to:

• Participate in the Royal Highland Show: An educational experience facilitated by the Scottish Young Farmers Association, allowing students to gain a deeper understanding of agricultural practices in Scotland.
• Compete at the Charleville Show in Ireland: Adding to their accolades and experiences in international dairy judging competitions.
• Visit Notable Sights, Including the Falkirk Wheel, The Kelpies, St. Andrews, Edinburgh, Royal Troon Golf Club, Culzean Castle, Ring of Kerry, and Blarney Castle.
• Tour Local Farms: Offering insights into Scottish and Irish agricultural methods and practices.

This extraordinary opportunity was made possible by the generous support of numerous sponsors, including:

• Kaskaskia College
• Clinton County Farm Bureau
• Clinton County Classic Sale
• Kaskaskia College Ag Club & Collegiate Farm Bureau
• Clinton County Holstein Club
• Illinois Holstein Association
• Huels Embryo Transfer Service
• Weatherington Tractor Service
• Heinz-Hope Farm Nelson & Bonnie Heinzmann
• The Equity
• Bayer
• Midwest Dairy Association
• Leavenworth Cattlemans Association
• Micki Adams
• KC President George Evans
• Duane & Cathy Karrick
• Mary Mohr
• Kelly Easterday Heckaman
• Peggy Quandt
• The Roger Grasher Family
• Dan Friederich
• Brian Engleking
• Delonna & Byron Lehman
• Michael Hutjens
• Nelson & Bonnie Heinzmann

This international tour has provided the Kaskaskia College's Dairy Judging Team with invaluable experiences, enhancing their understanding of global agricultural practices and expanding their professional networks. The team returns with newfound knowledge, skills, and a deeper appreciation for the agricultural industry on a global scale. For more information about the KC Agriculture Program, please contact KC Agriculture Professor Aaron Heinzmann at aheinzmann@kaskaskia.edu or 618-545-3381.