New officers, directors take the reins at BIF
The Beef Improvement Federation announced its 2026-27 officers and newly elected board members June 3 during the organization’s 58th Annual Research Symposium and Convention in Boise, Idaho.
Ken Odde, Pollock, S.D., was introduced as president and will lead the organization in the coming year. Odde, DVM, Ph.D., is professor emeritus and former department head for Kansas State University Animal Sciences and Industry. He owns Odde Ranch, a commercial cow-calf operation in north-central South Dakota, and operates the outfit alongside his family.
Craig Hays, Pierce, Colo., will serve as vice president. Hays is director of genetics and product development for Leachman Cattle, headquartered in Meriden, Wyo., with additional major operations in Wellington, Colo. Leachman Cattle markets thousands of high-performing bulls and semen annually to help producers improve their bottom line through genetic improvement.
In addition to electing officers, BIF members selected new directors to help guide the organization’s mission of advancing beef cattle improvement through the use of performance data and genetic evaluation. Newly elected board members are listed below.
Producer representatives:
- Kyley DeVoe, Justin, Texas, 3K Land and Cattle
- Craig Hays, Pierce, Colo., Leachman Cattle (second term)
Cattle Breed Registry Association representatives:
- Larry Keenan, Commerce City, Colo., Red Angus Association of America
- Mark McCully, St. Joseph, Mo., American Angus Association
- Jack Ward, Plattsburg, Mo., American Hereford Association
- Brad Wright, Hearne, Texas, International Brangus Breeders Association
The leadership transition took place during the annual symposium, which attracted more than 400 beef producers, researchers, educators and industry professionals for technical presentations, educational sessions, and discussions on the future of beef cattle genetics and performance improvement.
Founded in 1968, BIF works to encourage the development and responsible use of scientifically sound genetic prediction and performance evaluation tools to improve the efficiency and profitability of beef production.
Additional information from the 58th Annual BIF Research Symposium and Convention, including award recipients, educational resources and presentation archives, is available at BIFSymposium.com.
University honors Nollette’s contributions to research, teaching, Extension
For ensuring the success of research, teaching and Extension programs in one of the University of Nebraska’s most remote locations, John Nollette received a Kudos Award from the University of Nebraska Board of Regents on June 18.
The award recognizes university staff members whose exceptional contributions advance the mission of the University of Nebraska.
Nollette serves as lead ranch technician at the Gudmundsen Sandhills Laboratory near Whitman, where he is known as a dependable problem-solver, mentor and steward of the ranch’s research and education mission. Colleagues say his behind-the-scenes work helps make possible the research, Extension and teaching programs that benefit students, producers and communities across Nebraska and beyond.
Operating a working ranch while supporting multiple research projects requires balancing competing priorities and adapting to changing conditions. Nollette has earned a reputation for doing both with professionalism and a willingness to help wherever needed.
“John makes things work,” said Mitch Stephenson, professor of agronomy and horticulture. “Juggling the responsibilities of managing a ranch with the needs of several research projects is extremely challenging, but John is always willing to find ways to accommodate research, extension and teaching.”
Faculty credit Nollette with helping maintain the integrity of research projects while ensuring the day-to-day needs of the ranch are met. Whether assisting with data collection, adjusting grazing plans, caring for livestock or preparing facilities for visitors and educational programs, he approaches each task with the same focus on supporting the success of others.
His impact extends beyond ranch operations. Students and colleagues describe Nollette as a mentor who creates an environment where people are encouraged to learn, ask questions and grow professionally. Former students recalled his willingness to share knowledge, offer guidance and make newcomers feel at home while living and working at the laboratory.
“John embodies the true definition of teamwork,” said Roger Carpenter, ranch technician at Gudmundsen Sandhills Laboratory. “He’s always thinking of ways to make our busy schedule flow the best that it can while still working with faculty to make sure all parts of their research are getting taken care of.”
Nollette’s commitment to service also reaches beyond the university. A past chief of the Whitman Volunteer Fire Department, he continues to serve his community through emergency response efforts and has volunteered on local boards supporting schools and youth programs.
