MADISON, Wis. — Kendall Boatman, Rockford, Ill., and T.R. Putz, Otley, Iowa, were awarded $2,500 Hereford Herdsman Scholarships during the Hereford Youth Foundation of America (HYFA) Scholarship, Award and Maroon Jacket Ceremony at the 2026 VitaFerm^® Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE), July 9 in Madison, Wis.

Sullivan Supply Inc. and Hereford herdsmen from across the nation partner with HYFA to make these two scholarships possible. 

During the 2026 JNHE, HYFA awarded more than $50,000 in scholarships and awards to exemplary Hereford youth and will allocate more than $220,000 throughout the year to support junior members in their academic pursuits.  

Kendall Boatman is a sophomore at Lake Land Community College competing on the livestock judging team and working toward her agricultural transfer degree. She is excited to pursue future internship opportunities but knows her focus will work in roles that highlight the importance of agriculture to the consumer.

“I envision staying connected to the beef industry, possibly through roles in marketing, public relations, working for a cattle breed association or even managing my own cattle operation,” Boatman says. “Regardless of the exact path I take, I will always be committed to ensuring that agriculture remains strong, respected and supported for generations to come.”

Currently serving on the National Junior Hereford Association board, Boatman credits the organization with setting her up for success and helping teach the values that have shaped her as an individual.

T.R. Putz is a senior at Iowa State University majoring in agricultural studies with an emphasis on animal science, agricultural business and supply chain management. His long-term future is a career in agricultural sales, while also developing his Hereford operation, focusing on quality, proven genetics and gradual expansion to be able to host a fall cattle sale in the future.

“I believe a self‑made person earns what they get. That mindset has shaped every decision I've made in college,” Putz says. “My involvement in the Hereford breed has taught me discipline, responsibility and resilience. It has also given me mentors who expect excellence from me.”

Putz’ involvement in the Hereford breed as a junior member, leader and breeder have set him up for success in the future and career that will put the title of a Hereford Herdsman in the right hands.

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The Hereford Youth Foundation of America (HYFA) was established in 2000 and is a not-for-profit corporation dedicated to its four core pillars of scholarship, leadership, education and research. The mission of HYFA is to encourage, recognize and reward the development of life skills and values in the next generation of leaders by providing education, scholarship and leadership opportunities for Hereford youth. For more information about HYFA, visit Herefordyouthfoundation.org. 

Find photos and press release here.