80 NEBRASKA CATTLEMAN January 2025 ability and innovation in beef production. Our goal is to integrate genetics, management practices and new technologies to create long-term, sustainable solutions for the industry. While profitability and environmental sustainability are crucial for Nebraska’s beef producers, there’s also a pressing need for production-animal veterinarians to support the state’s $6 billion livestock industry. High veterinary training costs, especially in rural areas, deter many students from pursuing this career. In response, UNL launched the Elite 11 Veterinarian Program, offering scholarships and mentorship to Nebraska students in animal science and veterinary medicine. This initiative, which covers up to 100 percent of tuition, ensures that graduates commit to practicing as livestock veterinarians in Nebraska for at least eight years. The program was so successful last year that it is being funded again by the State of Nebraska and UNL’s College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources. The application deadline for the 2025 cohort is Feb. 3, and any Nebraska high school senior is eligible to apply. In October, UNL’s Beef Innovation Hub faculty and research staff met with external advisors, including beef producers, to assess progress in our beef program and to direct the program’s future. Jeff Gold, Ph.D., the newly-appointed president of the University of Nebraska system, kicked off the meeting by reflecting on his first 100 days in office. He emphasized the importance of supporting Nebraska’s beef industry, addressing workforce needs and ensuring students are prepared for the evolving challenges of the industry. Gold reaffirmed UNL’s commitment to advancing research that helps the beef sector adapt, thrive and contribute to Nebraska’s broader economic stability. Looking ahead to 2025, the progress made in 2024 provides a strong foundation for continuing to support Nebraska’s agricultural sector. We look forward to advancing these initiatives and tackling the challenges ahead with the same collaboration, dedication and vision that have guided our work so far. ~NC~ IANR CONTINUED FROM PAGE 78 ® ® BY CONNOR AGRISCIENCE SILAGE BARRIER FILMS SCHAWANG Cattle Co. 28TH ANNUAL BEST OF ALL WORLDS SALE MARCH 15, 2025 (STORM DATE MARCH 22) 1:00 PM CST - At our homestead 3271 K Road - David City, NE • Lunch provided www.schawangcattle.net Selling 35 Bulls • 15 Open Heifers Level 5 Johnes Herd Certification Tested negative for BVD 22 years in a row Pelvic measured Satisfaction guaranteed Design by KWC Print Design Gelbvieh, Angus, Balancer, Simmental, & Red Angus Cross Randy & Mindy Schawang & SonS 402.367.2345 (Randy cell) 402.367.8280 (Mindy cell) Call or text for a catalog!
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NTMxNTA5