KANSAS CITY, Missouri (November 1, 2023) – The American Shorthorn Association Awards hosted their Annual Awards Banquet on Saturday, October 22, 2023, at the Hilton Kansas City Airport in Kansas City, Mo.

Alan K. Sears of Eaton, Colo., was honored as 2023 Merit Award Winner. The merit award is given to recognize individuals that are not Shorthorn breeders who support and promote the cattle industry. This award honors those beef cattle industry leaders who have specifically assisted and had a positive influence on the Shorthorn breed. These individuals have been exceptional supporters and dedicated friends of the Shorthorn breed for many years. This describes Alan K. Sears and shows why he is deserving of his recognition.

Sears first beef project was a red Shorthorn heifer purchased at the Indiana Shorthorn Association Blue Ribbon Sale. After that first heifer, he was hooked on the breed. Shorthorn cattle and the Purebred Beef industry became his passion. After graduating from Purdue University, he was hired in 1977 to work at the ASA to run junior activities and as a field representative. He was integral in merging the youth conference and junior national show into one event.   

After leaving the ASA, Sears worked at Drovers Journal and then the North American Limousin Foundation. He found his way back to the Shorthorn breed when he was hired in 1993 to work for the Shorthorn Country magazine. After his time at the magazine, he went to work for the Western Livestock Reporter and then Deiter Bros., followed by Five Star Cattle Systems. In 2008, he returned to Western Ag Report as well as starting his own business providing sale management, genetic and marketing consultation services. You can find him at different Shorthorn sales across the country.

The American Shorthorn Association congratulates Alan K. Sears on the prestigious honor as being selected as a 2023 Merit Award Winner.

About ASA

The American Shorthorn Association’s mission is to serve all members, protect the integrity of the herdbook and database; enhance and communicate the value of the Shorthorn breed, and expand the use of Shorthorn genetics in the U.S. beef industry. Visit shorthorn.org to learn more.

American Shorthorn Association :: 7607 NW Prairie View Road, Kansas City, MO 64151:: 816.599.7777 ###