About the Program
The Junior Merit Program is a cornerstone initiative of the American International Junior Charolais Association (AIJCA). It honors outstanding junior members who exemplify leadership, achievement in competitive events, and dedication to the Charolais breed.
This program not only recognizes personal success but also helps develop the skills needed to prepare young cattlemen and women for leadership roles in agriculture and beyond.
Recognition Levels
The Junior Merit Program offers three levels of recognition that encourage juniors to set goals and grow in their involvement with AIJCA. Each level builds upon the last, motivating juniors to continue striving for personal, academic, and industry success.
Bronze Merit
Silver Merit
Gold Merit
Elite Gold Award
Each year at the AIJCA Junior National, one outstanding Gold Merit applicant is chosen through a personal interview to receive the program's highest honor, the Elite Gold Merit Award. This prestigious recognitiion includes a $250 scholarship and celebrates a junior who exemplifies exceptional leadership, service, and dedication to the Charolais breed.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the Junior Merit Program, applicants must:
How to Apply
Applications are due April 1 each year.
A complete application includes:
Junior Merit application form
Essay questions (Gold level only)
Why Apply?
Participating in the Junior Merit Program offers more than recognition—it provides lifelong skills and opportunities, including:
- National recognition at the AIJCA Junior National Show
- A stronger resume and college applications
- Scholarship funding to support educational goals
- Improved leadership, communication, and self-presentation skills
- The chance to inspire younger juniors as a role model and future leader
Important Details
- Applications must be received by the Director of Junior Activities by April 1 each year.
- Points are cumulative across an AIJCA member’s entire junior career.
- Recognition levels are awarded once per applicant, but multiple levels can be achieved as points are earned.
2024 Junior Merit Recipients
Bronze
Avery Kohls – Hutchinson, MN
Cambree Holt – Lake Preston, SD
Elijah Dehan – LaMonte, MO
Emma Hankins – Springfield, MO
Claire Williams – Keithville, LA
Lily Williams – Keithville, LA
Jessi Hankins – Springfield, MO
Luke Sonderup – Fullerton, NE
Lora Sonderup – Fullerton, NE
Silver
Avery Kohls – Hutchinson, MN
Elijah Dehan – LaMonte, MO
Emma Hankins – Springfield, MO
Lily Williams – Keithville, LA
Jessi Hankins – Springfield, MO
Gold
Emma Hankins – Springfield, MO
Shade Bunker – Sparta, WI
Weston Schrader – Wells, KS
Gold Elite
Weston Schrader