By Blake Jackson
Joan Seidel of Fleetwood, Pennsylvania, has been presented with the 33rd Klussendorf-MacKenzie Award, recognizing her exceptional contributions to the dairy cattle industry.
The award, established in memory of Duncan MacKenzie, a 1961 Klussendorf winner, honors individuals who embody the highest standards of excellence.
Seidel's extensive experience in the dairy industry includes working for numerous prominent farms, including Elite Dairy, Lylehaven, Ruann, Pappys, Cormdale, Snyder's Homestead, Brigeen Farms, Woodmansee Holsteins, Tumbleweed, Green Meadows, Friendship Farm, and Pintail Point. Her dedication to her craft is evident in her nearly 300 days spent on the road preparing cattle for shows, sales, and classifications.
Seidel's journey began on her family dairy farm in Avon, New York, where she started showing dairy cattle at the age of nine. She quickly gained recognition, winning numerous All-New York and Junior All-New York awards.
As she transitioned from junior activities, Seidel worked for Bennett Farms and Ruann Dairy, where she learned from industry mentors like John Bennett and Lewis Porter.
Seidel and her husband, Doug, later formed the Camelot Cattle Company, where they successfully managed a showstring.
Their commitment to excellence resulted in numerous All-American nominations for their clients' cattle, and the Camelot Cattle Company gained a reputation for winning multiple Herdsmanship Awards at World Dairy Expo.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Seidel is known for her character and dedication. She generously shares her time and knowledge to educate and mentor young people in proper cattle care and presentation. Her peers admire her strong work ethic, attention to detail, and humility.
Seidel approaches every task with dedication and never complains, and she is trusted by many to care for their prized animals.
Seidel's strength, character, and passion for the dairy industry are the qualities that make her a deserving recipient of the Klussendorf-MacKenzie Award.
She joins a distinguished group of award winners, including four other women who have received the honor in the past 33 years.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-vm
Categories: Pennsylvania, Business, Livestock, Dairy Cattle