WCA Annual Awards
Each year, the Wisconsin Cattlemen's Association honors a Cattleman of the Year, Friend of the Cattlemen, BQA Award and Environmental Stewardship Award. WCA award recipients will be recognized at the 2026 Summer Tour.
Nominations are open for the 2026 awards. Help us celebrate the leaders, advocates and stewards who are shaping the future of Wisconsin's cattle industry by submitting a nomination by June 5.
CATTLEMAN OF THE YEAR
This award honors a cattle producer from Wisconsin who excels in various areas of the state’s industry and exemplifies the ideals of WCA. Areas of excellence may include: accomplishments within a beef or dairy operation, including
Beef Quality Assurance Award
This award recognizes Wisconsin beef producers who have implemented BQA practices on-farm, helped in the promotion of the BQA program in Wisconsin and helped improve animal care practices for the beef and/or dairy industry. Nominees must possess a current BQA certification to be considered for the award.
FRIEND OF CATTLEMEN
This award honors an organization or individual that has gone above and beyond to support the Wisconsin beef industry. This might include involvement with the WCA Steak Trailer, legislative efforts, educational events, and more. Support to the state’s beef industry may also include support of fellow beef producers or other organizations and events, such as the Wisconsin Beef Council, Wisconsin State Fair, UW-Extension or other academic institutions. Award criteria are broad in order to allow the selection of any deserving recipient who has made a positive impact on WCA, individual cattlemen, and Wisconsin's beef industry as a whole.
Wisconsin Environmental Stewardship Award
The award recognizes a Wisconsin cattle producer for their outstanding environmental stewardship practices and conservation achievements. At the national
2025 WCA Award Winners
The following individuals were honored for their outstanding contributions to Wisconsin's beef industry at the 2025 WCA Summer Tour.
Cattleman of the Year
Dr. Amy Radunz | Ellsworth, WI
Dr. Amy Radunz is a stocker cattle producer from Pierce County and Beef Cattle Technical Specialist for Purina. With decades of experience and a deep-rooted passion for the beef industry, Radunz has made a lasting impact both in and beyond Wisconsin. She has guided and mentored countless young cattle producers—fostering their growth and leadership within the industry. Her influence spans from state-level leadership to national representation. Radunz currently serves as President of the Wisconsin Beef Council and as Vice President for NCBA’s Region III Federation of State Beef Councils. Although no longer serving on the Wisconsin Cattlemen’s Association Board or Committees, she continues to support the organization and now represents WCA on the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture’s Export Advisory Council.
Friend of the Cattlemen
Richard Hauser | Richland Center, WI
Known for his steady presence and hands-on support, Hauser has become a trusted advocate for Wisconsin beef producers. Through his company, Neptune Enterprises, he provides valuable sponsorships and expert guidance on cattle handling and facility design. His approachable style and deep knowledge have helped producers improve safety and reduce animal stress across the state—all while quietly mentoring the next generation of cattlemen.
Beef Quality Assurance Award
2K Cattle Enterprises | Glen Haven, WI
2K Cattle Enterprises is owned and run by Kevin, Keri, & Kelsi Retallick. The Retallicks are not just breeders—they’re champions of quality, leadership, and Wisconsin cattle heritage. Tucked into the rolling hills of Grant County, this fourth-generation family operation has set the standard for Beef Quality Assurance—long before their practices earned them official recognition. Year after year, they’ve raised nationally celebrated Angus cattle, hosted educational clinics, and welcomed producers to learn from their farm firsthand. Their annual, performance‐tested bull and female sale draws buyers seeking superior genetics and animal welfare standards. Their commitment to science-based husbandry, public engagement, and unwavering quality represents exactly what BQA stands for—raising trust in Wisconsin beef from pasture to plate.