San Antonio, TX – The Top Judge program brought together 20 of the nation’s most talented collegiate livestock evaluators to prepare them for future roles as livestock show judges and industry leaders. The inaugural program took place in conjunction with the 2025 San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo. The program was launched to provide collegiate livestock judging students with opportunities to hone their skills and develop leadership qualities.

Top Judge builds upon the experiences of collegiate livestock judging teams, equipping participants with the expertise and professional integrity necessary for evaluating cattle, swine, sheep, and goats at the highest levels. Participants refine their abilities through skills-based training and mentorship provided by industry experts while establishing valuable connections within the livestock industry.

“The Top Judge mission is to develop the next generation of livestock industry leaders and judges—professionals who exemplify integrity, humility, and communication skills with a passion for working with young people,” said Scott Greiner, professor of animal science at Virginia Tech. “By equipping these young leaders with elite-level experiences, knowledge, and mentorship, the program ensures that they not only excel in livestock evaluation but also contribute to the growth and integrity of the industry and positive youth development.”

Students were nominated by their college livestock judging team coaches for the Top Judge program. They were selected based on their livestock evaluation skills, background, interests, future plans, character, and integrity.

“The Top Judge program has set a new standard for the professional development of young livestock evaluators.  This event not only allowed for in-depth discussions with those sorting in today’s biggest rings about how to be successful, but it also provided me and other participants with a roadmap for enhancing the exhibitors’ experience as a judge at all levels, said Jacob Klaudt, Top Judge participant from Kansas State University. “Being able to talk about the past experiences of the mentors was extremely invaluable. After hearing them share their stories and perspectives, I'm confident that all of us are better equipped to stand on the end of a mic and work a ring professionally.”

During the four-day program, participants were mentored by some of the country's most prominent livestock judges and industry leaders who exemplify expertise, integrity, and dedication to the livestock industry. Students and their mentors discussed various judging situations, show ring conduct and logistics, and the importance of consistency and defining your “kind.” Other topics covered included delivering a closing speech and working with exhibitors with special needs. Mentors provided one-on-one guidance, helping participants enhance their skills and establish meaningful professional relationships. Participants also had the opportunity to network with Top Judge sponsors and stock show management.

The Sort podcast is a unique aspect of the Top Judge program, which seeks to share the influence of the livestock judging experience from the judge’s perspective. Top Judge mentors, as well as the student participants, are sharing their experiences on the weekly podcast. The podcast can be found on major podcast platforms.

Without the generous support of the following sponsors, the Top Judge program would not have been possible. A giant thank you to Zinpro, Show-Rite, AcuFast Genetics, SC Online Sales, San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo, Primo Feeds, Choice of Champions, Green Meadows Forage, the Iowa State Fair, the Arizona National Livestock Show, the American Hereford Association, and the National Swine Registry.