Visit Kentucky for the Annual Meetings
For the first time in half a century, the rolling green hills of Kentucky will once again echo with the conversations, celebrations, and connections of Jersey enthusiasts from across the country. In 2025, the American Jersey Cattle Association (AJCA) and National All-Jersey Inc. (NAJ) are bringing their annual meetings back to the Bluegrass State—a place as steeped in Jersey history as it is in agricultural heritage.
The theme, “Kentucky Heritage: Jerseys, Bluegrass, Thoroughbreds and Bourbon,” sets the stage for a weeklong celebration that honors the past, embraces the present, and shapes the future.
Guests will journey into the heart of Kentucky’s traditions with stops that speak to the soul of the state. At Keightley & Core Jerseys, visitors will witness the dedication behind a Master Breeder herd known nationwide for excellence. A tour of Keeneland Racetrack and Spendthrift Farm will pull back the curtain on the high-stakes world of thoroughbred racing and breeding—where Kentucky’s influence stretches far beyond its borders.
History and hospitality will continue to unfold at Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill, once the third-largest Shaker community in the country, and at Castle & Key Distillery, where the story of Kentucky bourbon comes to life through restored architecture and rich storytelling.
On Thursday evening, attendees will enjoy an old-fashioned social with Chaney’s Dairy Farm and their renowned fresh Jersey ice cream, following a dinner of Kentucky Favorites. As the sun dips low, the National Heifer Sale will begin showcasing 50 of the finest heifers from the breed’s top cow families. The evening closes with live bluegrass music by Cane Run Bluegrass Band, providing the perfect soundtrack for laughter, connection, and reflection.
Throughout the week, honors will be given to those shaping the Jersey legacy. On Wednesday, June 25, seven outstanding young breeders will be
recognized: Brady Core, William and Meagan Grammer, Ryan Haines, Matt Hogan and Kristin Hogan-Kilgore, Andrew and Valerie Mason, and Jessica Stiles-Hess. These individuals represent the next generation of leadership—full of drive, innovation, and pride in the breed.
On Friday, June 27, the spotlight turns to some of the breed’s most respected contributors. Stuart and Elaine Noble will receive the Master Breeder Award. Chuck Luchsinger will be honored with the Distinguished Service Award, and Dan Grigson will be recognized with the AJCA-NAJ Award for Meritorious Service.
But beyond the accolades, the week will also be about the future of the industry. Two engaging producer roundtables will explore how to maximize profit through Jersey genetics and another on how farms can diversify through value-added services and products.
The youth experience will shine just as brightly. Opening night brings games and a pizza party hosted by The Dairy Alliance, followed by the first TransOva Youth Day on Friday. Hands-on workshops, pedigree reading, and dairy judging activities will fill the day at Keightley & Core Jerseys, ending with an evening of go-karts, laser tag, and arcade fun. Because shaping the next generation means fueling their curiosity—and joy.
On Saturday, June 28, the first-ever Jersey Youth Academy Benefit Auction will raise funds to support one of the most impactful youth programs in the dairy industry. In July, 35 students, with trips fully funded, will convene in Columbus, Ohio, to make this year’s ninth class. Over the course of a week, they’ll explore career paths, deepen their understanding of the dairy industry, gain confidence in their place within it, and make lifelong friends to share their experiences with.
At the center of it all are the Annual Membership Meetings, where both reflection and progress take the stage. The AJCA will debut a new election structure, transitioning from 12 to three regional districts, each electing one director and a president to four-year terms. NAJ members will be
introduced to three directors through appointments or elections at their annual meeting.
Candidate biographies will be shared in the May issue of the Jersey Journal and on USJerseyJournal.com. Ballots will be mailed the week of May 19, and voting can be completed electronically, in person, or by proxy.
This isn’t just a meeting.
It’s a homecoming.
It’s heritage.
It’s a celebration of Jerseys, of people, of progress.
Attend. Be inspired. Help shape the future.
Register today: https://usjerseyannualmeeting.com/ and set your family vacation with other Jersey friends around the country!
