Beef Quality Assurance Award Winner Announced

The Wisconsin Cattlemen’s Association (WCA) recognized outstanding leaders in Wisconsin’s beef industry during its 2026 Annual Summer Tour, honoring individuals and families whose dedication has strengthened cattle production, producer
education, and industry advocacy across the state.

Hosted in the Chippewa Valley, this year’s Summer Tour brought cattle producers together for a day of education, networking, and on-farm learning. Attendees visited Rooney Angus, Strey Farm, and Kostka Ranch, where they learned about each operation’s unique approach to beef production while discussing opportunities and challenges facing Wisconsin’s cattle industry.

“The Summer Tour is one of our favorite opportunities to bring producers together,” Wisconsin Cattlemen’s Association President Jared Geiser said. “Not only do we get to learn from fellow cattlemen and women, but we also have the privilege of recognizing individuals whose leadership and service continue to move our industry forward.”

Beef Quality Assurance Award: Dr. Sandy Stuttgen

The Beef Quality Assurance Award was presented to Dr. Sandy Stuttgen for her exceptional commitment to improving beef quality, cattle well-being, and producer education throughout Wisconsin.

As the agriculture educator for Taylor County with the University of Wisconsin Division of Extension, Stuttgen has been a driving force behind Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) programming statewide. She has devoted countless hours to developing educational resources, leading BQA workshops, and helping producers implement best management practices that
strengthen consumer confidence.

Prior to joining Extension, Stuttgen spent her career as a large animal veterinarian. She earned a Bachelor of Science in bacteriology from the University of Wisconsin–Madison before completing her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree through the UW School of Veterinary Medicine.

“I’m honored to receive this award and grateful for the opportunity to continue working with Wisconsin’s beef producers,” Stuttgen said. “Beef Quality Assurance has allowed me to combine my passion for veterinary medicine with education, helping producers adopt practices that benefit their cattle, their operations, and the future of our beef industry.”