Reflecting on 100 Years of Meat Judging

A Century of Excellence 100 Years of Intercollegiate Meat Judging

As part of the Centennial of Intercollegiate Meat Judging, one of the most meaningful legacies is not a celebration, but a commitment to preserving the program's history for future generations.

Led by Bo Garcia, Ph.D., with assistance from Sophia Wolff, both from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, an extensive review of historical records, publications, and archives resulted in the first comprehensive digital history of Intercollegiate Meat Judging. The project was introduced during a reciprocal session at the 2026 Reciprocal Meat Conference, where Dr. Garcia shared key findings and encouraged attendees to help strengthen the historical record by identifying corrections or additional milestones.

A limited number of printed copies were available during the Centennial celebration, but the history is intended to remain a continually updated digital resource as new information becomes available, ensuring the historical record continues to become more complete over time.

The digital history, along with the Centennial photo slideshow featured in last week's e-news, is available on the AMSA website as part of the 100 Years of Intercollegiate Meat Judging celebration.

Celebrating 100 Years: National FFA & Youth Meat Judging Chat

Hear stories, insights, and reflections from leaders who have helped shape youth meat judging programs and the students they serve. The discussion explores the impact of judging on education, leadership development, career pathways, and the future of the program. Hear from guests Dan Hale, Ph.D., Texas A&M University, Randy Harp, Ph.D., Eastern Oklahoma State College, Benjy Mikel, Ph.D., WPF Technical Services, Tom Carr, Ph.D., University of Illinois.

2026! Celebrating 100 Years of Intercollegiate Meat Judging

As part of AMSA’s celebration of the 100th anniversary of intercollegiate meat judging, we are launching a new recorded interview series highlighting the people and passion behind this special and unique program.

 The Centennial of Meat Judging Series, moderated by Leslie Frenzel with AMSA, features conversations with individuals who have been closely connected to meat judging as students, coaches, and advocates. The series explores the purpose, impact, and lasting influence of meat judging while building enthusiasm for the centennial year.

Hear Dr. Davey Griffin and Dr. Mark Miller reflect on how meat judging programs, students, and industry expectations have evolved through the decades and why the experience still matters today. Moderated by McKensie Phillips, University of Wyoming and Intercollegiate Meat Coaches Committee Chair.

Students Celebrate Meat Judging

As part of the 100th Anniversary of Intercollegiate Meat Judging, AMSA invited students to help shape how this milestone would be celebrated. The result was a student design competition that generated strong engagement, pride, and creativity across judging programs.

The selected design, led by Grace Bryson, Oklahoma State University, captures the student experience at the heart of Meat Judging. It quickly gained momentum through stickers, student shirts, and social media, creating visible excitement within the judging community.

At the center of the design is the red hard hat, an intentional and meaningful choice. For meat judgers, the hat and frock are more than apparel. They function as a uniform, much like other competitive teams wear with pride. They signal preparation, discipline, and belonging. The hard hat represents a tradition carried by generations of students who have stepped onto the contest floor ready to perform.

This design celebrates the friendships, experiences, and competitive spirit that define Meat Judging from a student perspective.

This space will continue to feature student stories, contest results, and shared reflections throughout the 100th Year celebration.