The National Junior Angus Association (NJAA) Ambassador program is designed to recognize one outstanding junior Angus member who will support the production of the Angus breed and the consumption of Angus beef on a national and international level through learning at various educational conferences and seminars.
The winner of the competition will represent the National Junior Angus Association at major shows, conferences, and events across the United States for one year.
Travels Include (But not limited to):
- American Angus Association® Orientation -July 24- St. Joseph, MO
- 2014 Angus Means Business National Convention & Trade Show -November 4-6, 2014 – Kansas City, MO
- Certified Angus Bee/ Building Blocks Seminar -January 2015 -Wooster, OH
- NCBA Cattle Industry Annual Convention – February 4-7, 2015 – San Antonio, TX
- GOAL Conference -February 2015 -Canada
- Beeflmprovement Federation -June 2015 -Location TBD
Additional travel options will vary on the selected ambassador’s location, schedule, and availability. Added events may include the Beef Improvement Federation meeting, state association meetings, state field days, and area farm visits with a regional manager.
Eligibility:
American Angus Association members who are 17-20 (as of January 1) of the current year are eligible to apply to be the ambassador. Applicants must currently be a member of the American Angus Association Gunior, life or regular) and in good standing and own purebred Angus cattle. Ambassadors must sign a code of conduct before their term. Contestants can apply more than once, but are only allowed to hold one (year -long) term. NJAA Board of Directors are not eligible to apply.
Competition:
Application – To apply, eligible members must submit a cover letter, a personal resume (no more than 2 pages), and answer the following questions. (1) Describe your Angus background and livestock experience. (2) What characteristics do you posses that qualifies you to be the Ambassador? (1 page maximum – 10 pt font minimum for each question)
A slate of judges will evaluate the applications and select the top five finalists. The judges will consist of an adult board member, three American Angus Association staff members, and one person at large.
Applications will be due June 15, 2014 (postmark date) and need to be addressed to the American Angus Association Attn: Junior Activities Department 3201 Frederick Ave. St. Joseph, MO 64506.
Contest – The top five successful candidates will be invited to attend the finals at the American Angus Association headquarters in St. Joseph, Mo on July 24. A comprehensive schedule will be provided to those candidates who are selected to attend the final competition. Tours and American Angus Association orientation will also be provided to the top 5 finalists.
The Interview – Each contestant will be interviewed by a panel of judges. Only judges and contestant will be allowed in the contest room. Interviews will last approximately 10 minutes.
Presentation -Contestants will present a 3-5 minute seminar on a relevant topic in the beef industry to the American Angus Association staff, judges and special guests. Finalists are encouraged to research and credit their sources during their seminar. After their seminar is given, finalists will have 5 minutes to answer questions from the floor.
Advisory Committee:
The NJAA ambassador will work with the Junior Activities Director of the American Angus Association.
