Ten universities recently participated in the 77th USPOULTRY Foundation Ted Cameron National Poultry Judging Contest, held at Mississippi State University (MSU). Texas A&M University (TAMU) won the high team overall category, while Ohio State University placed second. Additionally, TAMU’s Kyle Leibham and Annalyn Flores were recognized, with Leibham earning high individual overall honors and Flores finishing second.

The program also recognized Bonnie Walters of the University of Wisconsin River Falls for 34 years of coaching service, with the 77th competition marking her final contest.

“As these students look forward to industry careers, we are grateful for their interest in gaining this hands-on experience in judging live bird, breed selection, market products and egg grading. Congratulations to the high team and high individual overall category winners, and to all of the teams that participated. We thank MSU once again for hosting the program. We also thank Ms. Walters for her continued support and all her years of service,” said USPOULTRY Foundation Executive Director Barbara Jenkins.

The contest is part of the USPOULTRY Foundation's comprehensive student outreach program, established to enhance young people's interest in the poultry industry and encourage student enrollment in poultry science and related studies.

Beyond the Ted Cameron National Poultry Judging Contest, the USPOULTRY Foundation supports a wide range of student and youth outreach initiatives. These include sponsoring the annual College Student Career Program, International Student Program and National FFA Career Development Events at the International Poultry Expo (IPE), as well as co-sponsoring the Ph.D. and Vet Student Career Fair during IPE, part of the International Production & Processing Expo. Additional outreach efforts include sponsorship of the National FFA Convention, National 4-H poultry and egg activities, and programs for high school, technical school and elementary school students. The Foundation also supports student recruitment efforts at colleges and universities nationwide.