MURFREESBORO, TN—The Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association (TCA) presented the Outstanding Youth Award to two individuals for their outstanding leadership and commitment to the beef cattle industry. They received this award at the Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association Youth Awards Banquet sponsored by Kubota Tractor Corporation, on Saturday, January 18, 2025, in Murfreesboro, Tennessee.
The TCA Outstanding Youth Award is designed to recognize a well-rounded individual in the cattle industry. Winners are selected based on their presence in the cattle industry, both the show ring and production aspect, their involvement in their community and service to others, academics, and their plans for making a contribution to the cattle industry in the future.
“The TCA Outstanding Youth Award is another way for us to recognize youth who are excelling in the beef cattle industry,” said Luke Teeple, TCA Board of Director and Outstanding Youth Award sponsor. “These individuals work hard to manage their own cattle herds, are active in 4-H and FFA, and serve in their community. They deserve to be recognized for their extraordinary efforts.”
Ellie Hensley from Unicoi, Tenn. won the junior division award for ages 12-16. The senior division award winner, ages 17-21, was Haylee Ferguson from Rockvale, Tenn.
The junior division winner received a $250 cash award and trophy belt buckle sponsored by Oakdale Farms. The senior division winner received a $1,000 cash award and trophy belt buckle sponsored by Oakdale Farms. Oakdale Farms is owned by the Luke Teeple Family of Sparta, Tenn.
“I am honored to have received the 2024 Outstanding Youth Award for the junior division,” said Ellie Hensley. “I am humbled to win this award. I truly wouldn’t be the person I am today without the support of my parents and mentors and programs like the Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association.”
Those eligible for the award must complete an application that outlines their involvement in the cattle industry thus far and state how they plan to stay involved in the industry in the future. They must also list their leadership roles and community involvement. The application must be endorsed by their Extension Agent, Agriculture Education Teacher, or county Cattlemen’s Association president. Applicants must also be a paid member of the Tennessee Cattlemen’s Youth Association.
“I am truly honored to receive the Outstanding Youth Award from the Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association alongside many industry peers and role models who have been past recipients,” said Haylee Ferguson. “As a youth member of TCA, I have witnessed the benefits of networking with others in the field, and I hope to set an example for generations to come.”
Applications for the 2025 TCA Outstanding Youth Award will be available in the fall of 2025.
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