Six National Junior Angus Board (NJAB) members stepped up to the plate for the final time in Louisville, Ky., a bittersweet moment marking the end of a chapter defined by leadership, friendship and service. As they prepare to hang up their iconic green coats, each reflected on their time spent in the National Junior Angus Association (NJAA).

Ava Leibfried

Chairman
For Ava Leibfried, the relationships built through the NJAA have been among the most meaningful parts of her experience. 

“I think what has made this journey so special is the people that I’ve gotten to experience it with,” Leibfried says. 

As she concludes her junior career, the Wisconsin native encourages younger members to embrace every opportunity and value every connection they build.

“Cheer on your fellow juniors and exhibitors along the way and know that those will be your best friends forever,” Leibfried says.

Saying goodbye is never easy, but Leibfried says she is grateful for every experience the NJAA has granted her. 

“I’m so sad it’s over because it’s been such a wonderful last two years and wonderful junior career, but I’m so happy it happened,” Leibfried says.

Anne Dameron

Vice Chairman
Anne Dameron from Illinois hopes the retiring board will not be remembered just for their accomplishments, but the way they supported one another.

“I want us to be remembered as a fun and kind group,” Dameron says. “I think we were all each other’s cheerleaders, and so I hope that reflected onto the junior members and made them cheer each other on.”

She believes encouraging others is one of the most important lessons junior members can carry forward.

Although her time on the board is ending, Dameron says the relationships formed through the NJAA will continue long after she hangs up that iconic jacket for the last time.

“While I won’t have the green coat anymore, I will still be involved in this association, and I’ll still get to continue these relationships that I got to form and build while I was wearing the green coat,” Dameron says.

Bryanna Smith

Secretary
From the Bluegrass State of Kentucky, Bryanna Smith recognizes the opportunities the Angus breed provides extend far beyond the show ring.
“If you take care of Angus cattle … I think the Angus cow always come back to take care of you,” Smith says.

As she reflects on her service, Smith points to faith as a guide throughout challenges and success.

“Always keep your faith,” Smith says. “There are going to be trials. There are going to be things you don’t expect, but His plan is greater than our own. And always rely on the good Lord, no matter the situation, both in victories and in disappointments.”

That faith has guided Smith throughout her time serving on the NJAB, a goal she had long dreamed of achieving.

“It’s truly a bittersweet moment … to be living that dream the past two years has truly been an unimaginable experience, and to take that jacket off is bittersweet,” Smith says.

Blake Pillars

Events Director

Blake Pillars, from Michigan, says one of his six’s greatest strengths was the bond shared among its members.

“I want our board to be remembered for its unity,” Pillars says. “We were able to do some great things in our two years on the board.”

That sense of connection is something he hopes future NJAA members will embrace.

Having benefited from mentors throughout his own junior career, Pillars says he was proud to give back by serving as a positive example for younger members.

“Get to know people for who they are and how they do things,” Pillars encourages. “Love each other like family.”

As his time on the board comes to a close, Pillars says the experience has had a lasting influence.

“For me, it’s very bittersweet,” he explains. “The board has made me a better person, and for that I will be forever grateful.”
​

Grant Solem

Foundation Director
Grant Solem says serving on the board was an opportunity to give back to an organization that shaped his own junior career.

“[The NJAA had] just a meaningful impact on me, and I’m just glad I was able to give that same impact to somebody else,” the California native says.
He encourages younger members to make the most of every opportunity to serve others.

“Try to stay outgoing and helpful,” Solem says. “Always look for opportunities to interact with junior members, and always stay positive in whatever situation you’re faced with.”

The memories created alongside his fellow board members are those he will treasure most.

“The different experiences and opportunities we were given were just once in a lifetime, and getting to experience them with some of your best friends is pretty cool,” Solem adds.
​

Catie Collison

Education Director
“I just remember coming back home and I was like, ‘I can’t wait to go back next year,’” Catie Collison recalls, thinking back to the excitement she felt after attending her first NJAA event.

That excitement eventually grew into deep friendship that became one of the most defining aspects of her NJAA experience.

“There’s no other group that makes me laugh harder than this group of people,” Collison says. “We have so many inside jokes. We have so much fun in every situation. I always look forward to going to stuff with them.”

As she steps aside for the next group of leaders, the Iowa native says she is confident in the future of the organization.

“All good things come to an end,” Collison says. “It’s time for the next group of young leaders to step up and take over the role.”