Industry Leaders Honored at South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association’s 77th Annual Convention
The South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association (SDCA), a cornerstone of the state’s agricultural landscape, held its 77th Annual Convention and Trade Show in the historic city of Deadwood. This annual gathering celebrates leadership and innovation within the cattle industry, a vital economic driver for South Dakota.
Spearfish resident Eric Jennings, an exemplary leader in the beef industry, was awarded the coveted 2025 Cattlemen of the Year award. Jennings’ tenure as the president of SDCA was marked by his instrumental role in reorganizing the board of directors. “During his four terms as SDCA president, Eric led the association through a reorganization of the board of directors, championed new programs, supported growth, and mentored countless leaders along the way,” remarked Craig Bieber, SDCA President. “Even as he moved into the role of past president, he remained a steady voice, an engaged leader, and a strong advocate for the industry. We are proud to recognize Eric as the 2025 Cattleman of the Year.”
Eric Jennings, 2025 Cattlemen of the Year
Additionally honored was Drew Peterson of Salem, awarded the 2025 Friend of SDCA title. An influential member of the House Agricultural and Natural Resources Committee, Peterson is celebrated for his robust advocacy for ag producers within District 19 of the South Dakota House of Representatives. “Drew is an active member of SDCA’s Southeast Region and a strong advocate for ag producers in his community,” stated Bieber. “His leadership and influence, both in committee and among his peers, have contributed to many positive outcomes in the legislature and wins for agriculture and the cattle industry across the state.”
Drew Peterson, 2025 Friend of SDCA
This year also saw the introduction of the prestigious Myron Williams Leadership Award, honoring the profound legacy left by the late Myron Williams, a respected figure from Wall, SD. This award was granted to the promising leadership of Colin Geppert from Kimball, who emerged from the Cattlemen’s Leadership Academy class. Geppert, set to join the SDCA leadership at their annual Washington D.C. fly-in, embodies the leadership and advocacy that defined Myron Williams’ career.
Colin Geppert, Myron Williams Leadership Award Recipient
The selection process for this award was a heartfelt affair, with Myron’s family, including his daughter Misty Williams Maddox and wife Mary Williams, deeply involved. Misty reflected on the submissions, saying, “It was incredibly difficult to choose among the submissions. What impressed us most about Colin was how his experience with the leadership academy and working with SDCA has led him to not only get involved but make leadership a priority in his community.” Mary Williams added, “He would have been proud.”
The SDCA’s efforts underscore its commitment to promoting and protecting the interests of South Dakota’s cattlemen, from advocating legislative agendas to providing opportunities for up-and-coming leaders. As a grassroots organization, SDCA plays a crucial role in the state’s agricultural economics, advocating for policies that benefit cattle producers across South Dakota.
Held in the culturally rich Deadwood, a city synonymous with the rugged pioneering spirit of South Dakota, the SDCA Convention serves not just as a gathering of industry minds but as a testament to the state’s enduring dedication to agricultural advancement.
The recognition of these leaders at the SDCA Convention highlights their significant contributions to the community and the state’s reputation as a leader in the cattle industry. It underlines a continued pursuit of excellence and innovation in sustainable beef production that will benefit future generations of South Dakota’s cattlemen.
For more information on the South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association Annual Convention and the 2025 award recipients, visit info@sdcattlemen.org.