Aug. 6, 2012

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

For more information contact:

Ellie Hoffschneider, public relations and communications intern at 816-383-5100 or printern@angus.org

Visionaries for the Angus Breed

A South Dakota couple honored for commitment to Angus youth as 2012 Honorary Angus Foundation inductees.

Howard and JoAnne Hillman of Sioux Falls, S.D., are true leaders in the Angus breed and exemplify the commitment of Angus producers nationwide.  Because of these qualities and all they have accomplished for the Angus Foundation, the Hillmans were honored by the National Junior Angus Association (NJAA) as 2012 Honorary Angus Foundation inductees. 

The couple was recognized July 20 at the National Junior Angus Show in Louisville, Ky.  The Hillman family has a rich history in the breed that dates back 100 years. The family’s operation, Bon-View Farms, dispersed in 1999, but Howard and JoAnne continue to be involved in the Angus community.  From 2005 to 2011, Howard served as chairperson of the Leadership Cabinet for the Vision of Value: Campaign for Angus. 

“Howard and JoAnne have a deep loyalty and love for the people in the Angus breed,” says Milford Jenkins, Angus Foundation president.  “Those qualities were evident as they were very active in the campaign and are passionate about seeing the breed succeed.”

In addition to Howard’s leadership role, the couple pledged their financial support early in the campaign.  Their generous contribution, along with the donations of many other Angus breeders, has created new opportunities for the Angus Foundation to continue its mission of supporting youth, education and research.  

            Even though the Vision of Value campaign has ended, the Hillmans’ impact continues.  Through the example they have set, other breeders have stepped forward and also provided for the future of the breed. 

            “I can’t think of any youth organization that does more for the development of a young person in so many ways than the NJAA,” Howard says. “Juniors are the future leaders, so giving back allows these young people to be a part of the industry that feeds the world.”   

The NJAA began the Honorary Angus Foundation in 1985 to recognize and thank those who have shown extraordinary interest and support for young members of the American Angus Association^®.  Seven Angus breeders were honored as the first inductees, and each year the NJAA inducts breed supporters or entities.

Any member of the American Angus Association is eligible to nominate individuals or organizations for the Honorary Angus Foundation.  Visit www.angus.org to learn more or to nominate next year’s Honorary Angus Foundation inductees.

The Angus Foundation was established in 1980 as a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization to support Angus education, youth and research. To learn more about the Angus Foundation and the programs it supports, call 816-383-5100 or go to www.angusfoundation.org.

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