Elite Breeder Honor for Hendrickson Farm

Jun 05, 2026
By Farms.com

Jeff and Kate Hendrickson earn 2026 Elite Breeder recognition

Jeff and Kate Hendrickson of Jeffrey-Way Holsteins in Belleville, Wisconsin have been named the 2026 Elite Breeder by Holstein Association USA. The award recognizes their long-term efforts in building a productive and high-scoring dairy herd.

“It gives us a sense of pride to be recognized by this award,” said Jeff. “It’s a good feeling to know you’re recognized by your peers, and it provides a sense of accomplishment.

Their journey began as a small FFA and Junior Holstein project and gradually developed into a strong multi-generational dairy farm. Today, Jeff and Kate work alongside their son Brooks, while their other children also remain actively involved in the dairy industry.

The farm operates under the motto “Where family matters,” reflecting the importance of shared dedication and values. Their herd is largely built on a single foundation cow, Inwood Taffy Apollo EX-93, purchased in the early 1980s. Around 90% of the current herd traces back to this influential cow family.

Over the years, several notable cows have contributed to the herd’s success, including Jeffrey-Way Mars Tara-ET EX-90, Mascot Tina-ET EX-91, Format Tate-ET EX-93, Tranquil-ET EX-92, Tanawood EX-95, Addison Sauna EX-95, Saphire EX-94, and Hard Rock Twigs EX-96. Their breeding program has also supported artificial insemination of sires and embryo sales globally.

The Jeffrey-Way herd has been listed on the Progressive Breeder’s Registry for 35 consecutive years and has received multiple Progressive Genetics Herd Awards. The Hendricksons have bred numerous Gold Medal Dams and Dams of Merit, along with 384 Excellent cows.

Beyond herd performance, the farm has also achieved success in dairy shows, earning several Premier Breeder and Premier Exhibitor honors at various levels.

The Hendricksons actively support their community by hosting farm tours for visitors, including international guests during World Dairy Expo. They also contribute to local organizations and youth programs.

Through a strong focus on genetics, hard work, and family values, Jeff and Kate Hendrickson have created a lasting impact on the Holstein industry.

Photo Credit: Holstein Association USA-Jeff and Kate Hendrickson

Video: Veteran Farmers: A Legacy of Service in Rural America

Veterans Day is a time to honor the men and women who have selflessly protected our freedoms and values. And for some, the transition from military service to civilian life brings them back to the farm.

At Farm Bureau, we believe it’s important to not only celebrate veterans but also those who continue to make a difference in agriculture and their community. We've partnered with Farm Credit to establish the Veteran Farmer Award of Excellence to shine a light on those who have continued to go above and beyond to serve their communities.

This year, we recognize retired Colonel Joe Ricker as the inaugural Veteran Farmer Award of Excellence winner. Joe served over 30 years in the Army before retiring from the Pentagon and completing tours in both Iraq and Afghanistan. Since leaving the Army, his commitment to excellence in farming and enriching the lives of veterans has blossomed in a myriad of ways in both his local community of Wilkinson, Indiana, and across the country. Joe grows apples and raises bees on his farm in Indiana. Joe founded “Veterans IN Farming,” an organization, now with more than 1,100 members, dedicated to providing veterans in Indiana with the tools and training to succeed in agriculture.

The American Farm Bureau Federation is an independent, non-governmental, voluntary organization, comprised of and directed by farm and ranch families who engage in all types of food, fuel and fiber production.