Driven to Improve: with Curtis Vanden Berge

Driven to Improve: with Curtis Vanden Berge

Hear from Holstein Association USA’s 2026 Distinguished Young Holstein Breeder, Curtis Vanden Berge. Growing up on his family’s California dairy, Curtis developed an early passion for breeding better cows. By focusing on genetic progress and continuous improvement, he has developed a high-performing herd. In this conversation, Curtis explains how he uses genetic tools and programs from Holstein Association USA to guide his herd forward.  Sign up for the Holstein Insider email newsletter here: holsteinusa.jotform.com/253645344326963 [https://holsteinusa.jotform.com/253645344326963]

What to Expect at Holstein Horizons

Get ready for Holstein Horizons! In this episode, Jodi Hoynoski shares what to expect from this year’s educational sessions at the 2026 National Holstein Convention in Orlando, Florida. Taking place Tuesday, June 23, Holstein Horizons offers a full day of learning designed to bring real value back to your farm or career. Centered around the theme Small Investments, Big Returns, attendees will gain practical tools, fresh perspectives, and timely insights. This event sets the stage for the Annual Business Meeting and National Convention Sale that evening—and is open to both adults and youth looking to learn, connect, and grow within the industry. Tune in for a preview of the schedule, featured speakers, and what you won’t want to miss. Learn more at https://www.holsteinconvention.com/holsteinhorizons.

Introducing the Holstein Conformation Composite

The Holstein Conformation Composite (HCC) is a new selection tool designed to help breeders identify animals with the combination of conformation traits most closely associated with balance, functionality, and long-term durability. Directors Dwight Rokey and Jeff King share their perspectives as Holstein breeders who have both served on the Conformation Advisory Committee. They are joined by Holstein Association USA's Dr. Jeffrey Bewley and Dr. Jason Graham, who explain how they combined extensive conformation and performance data and breeder insights to design HCC.  Learn more about the Million Reasons Why Conformation Matters study: www.holsteinusa.com/typematters Learn more about Holstein Association USA Committees: www.holsteinusa.com/association/committees.html

2025 Star of the Breed: Oakfield Solomon Sunset-ET

The highest honor presented to a Registered Holstein, the Star of the Breed award recognizes a cow who excels in both type and production. Receiving the 2025 recognition from Holstein Association USA is Oakfield Solomon Sunset-ET EX-96 2E. Hear Sunset's story from the perspective of her breeders and owners, Jonathan and Alicia Lamb, of Oakfield Corners Dairy in New York, along with Jamie Black, Show Herd Manager who cares for Sunset daily.

The TPI Formula Change Explained

Beginning with the April 2026 genetic evaluation, the TPI formula shifts emphasis from fat toward protein. Join Dr. Jeffrey Bewley, Executive Director of Genetics Programs and Innovation, Dr. Jason Graham, Genetic Evaluation and Research Scientist, Director Spencer Hackett, Chair of the Genetic Advancement Committee, and Board of Director President John Burketfor a conversation about the change. They explain why it makes sense to adjust the formula weightings for PTA Protein and PTA Fat, how the Genetic Advancement Committee and Board of Directors arrived at the decision, and the data and market trends that support it.