JWCC’s Emma Taylor Wins National Livestock Championship

January 29, 2024

 

JWCC’s Emma Taylor Wins National Livestock Championship

Emma Taylor, a first-year student at John Wood Community College and member of the Livestock Judging Team, emerged victorious in the recent Denver Carload Contest at the National Western Stock Show in Denver, Colorado.

Taylor earned the title of National Champion in the Denver Carload contest, during which 123 participants from 28 schools from across the country judged four groups of cattle.  Each group of cattle consisted of three or four animals of the same breed and sex.  Competitors must rank the quality of each group in order from first to fourth.

Becoming a National Champion is a testament to Emma’s dedication, knowledge, and proficiency in assessing the quality of livestock. This accomplishment signifies her ability to make informed decisions crucial to animal husbandry, breeding, and marketing—skills that are valuable in the agricultural industry.

Participation in livestock judging contests is an integral part of JWCC’s commitment to providing practical learning opportunities for students. The skills acquired through these contests contribute to the well-rounded education and career readiness of individuals pursuing agriculture-related fields.

“We’re incredibly proud of Emma for becoming JWCC’s first National Champion in this contest,” Mike Tenhouse, JWCC Ag Center director said.  “Her success reflects not only her dedication but also the quality of education and guidance offered by our faculty, Justin Lewis and Bethany Beeler.”

Taylor’s victory opens doors for further opportunities in the agricultural sector. This achievement can pave the way for scholarships, internships, and increased visibility within the industry.


John Wood Community College is the educational link between business and community. JWCC collaboratively creates innovative and relevant academic and training programs with business leaders to educate young people and the workforce for today's needs and tomorrow's opportunities. JWCC has centers in Quincy, Pittsfield, Baylis and Mt. Sterling, Illinois. Programs include a comprehensive baccalaureate transfer curriculum, customized business training, career/technical degrees, certificates, and personal enrichment courses.