March 23, 2006
The judging team endowment campaign at Iowa State University brought in more than $825,000 during the past year. Maynard Hogberg, head of the animal science department, said the endowment funds would be used to fund coaching positions and support judging teams.
"I believe participation on the judging teams helps students develop leadership skills, character, confidence and a better understanding of the animal sciences," Hogberg said.
The endowments will support coaching positions in the dairy, livestock and meats programs. The funds also will support team travel, financial aid and the purchase of equipment.
The animal science department recognized several contributors to the endowment at a dinner held in October. Fern and F.C. Parrish contributed $250,000 to the endowment to fund a coaching position for the meats judging team. F.C. Parrish said the endowment contributes to an activity that enriches each student's experience.
"Judging team competition helps students develop communication, critical thinking, problem-solving and leadership skills. It is an experience that prepares students for the future," Parrish said.
Jeff Hansen with Iowa Select Farms contributed $175,000 to endow the livestock judging coach position.
Hogberg said the success of the campaign is due to the passion of former judging team members. The endowment has made it possible to hire a livestock judging team coach and Hogberg hopes to hire a meats judging coach after July 1.
"We're continually making changes to make the judging team experience relevant to industry needs," Hogberg said.
The judging teams have been a tradition within the animal science department for more than 100 years. The five judging teams in the department compete nationwide.