Vejraska Joins the American Hereford Association Team

The American Hereford Association (AHA) welcomed Kelsey Vejraska, as the audio visual specialist on May 31.

Vejraska will strategize, plan, and execute studio and field-based video and photo productions, championing the creative process from conception to delivery. Leading the development of visual storytelling, she will create a consistent message for the association.

“I have always been passionate about telling the producer’s story and creating demanding content for the public,” Vejraska says. “The AHA has a bright future and I am excited to be able to tell the stories of Hereford breeders and commercial producers across the nation.”

Originally from North Central Washington, Vejraska grew up involved as the fourth generation on her family’s Angus operation. During her time as a member of the National Junior Angus Association (NJAA) she served as the communications director for the 2020–2021 board of directors. She is a recent graduate of Oklahoma State University with a bachelor’s in agricultural communications and agribusiness.

“Kelsey’s talents in the realm of videography and photography coupled with her previous industry experience provides us with an exciting opportunity to advance our breed and industry communication efforts,” says Jack Ward, AHA executive vice-president.

Prior to joining the AHA, Vejraska interned with the Oklahoma Youth Expo and Legacy Livestock Imaging. She brings a wealth of experience to the team from her previous internships and collegiate involvement.

Shive Named Hereford World Managing Editor

Sydnee Shive recently joined the American Hereford Association as Managing Editor of Hereford World magazine (HW). She will help maintain HW as the communication voice of the Association and the breed. Shive will coordinate a variety of projects for the HW and related Association communications.

“I am excited to begin working with the Hereford World staff,” Shive says. “I cannot wait to see what the future holds for the publication, and I am thankful for the opportunity to join such a talented team.”

Shive recently graduated from Kansas State University with a Bachelor of Science in agricultural communications and journalism. Originally from Mount Hope, Kan., Shive has a great deal of experience in communications. Shive was editor of the Kansas State Agriculturist, communications intern for Kansas Farm Bureau, photographer for Legacy Livestock Imaging and owner of Sydnee Creative.

“The magazine and the Association will benefit from Sydnee’s writing talent, skilled photography and her passion for the cattle business,” says Wes Ishmael, HW executive editor. “We’re fortunate to have her join our team.”

Lewis hired as HPI creative services coordinator

Bailey Lewis is the new creative services coordinator for Hereford Publications Inc. (HPI). She grew up near Strong City, Kan., before attending Oklahoma State University (OSU), Stillwater, Okla. Lewis graduated with a bachelor’s degree in agricultural communications and a minor in agricultural leadership.

“I am thrilled to be joining HPI and I look forward to this opportunity to work with the Hereford team,” Lewis says. “I’m eager to begin connecting with Hereford producers around the country and promoting the breed through print and social media.”

During her time at OSU, Lewis was involved with the Freshman In Transition program, Agriculture Future of America and OSU Swine Club.

Lewis joined the HPI team May 16 with a wealth of communications and industry experience in journalism, graphic design, social media management, photography and videography. Previously, she worked with Taylor Fort, Cowboy Journal, Chesterfield Wedding Barn, Black Leg Ranch and the OSU Swine Unit working in a variety of roles.

“We are excited to have Bailey’s cattle industry knowledge along with her communications skills,” says Caryn Vaught, HPI production manager. “We believe she will be an excellent addition to the HPI staff.”

Hayes Joins Team Hereford

The American Hereford Association (AHA) is pleased to welcome Debbie Hayes, Kansas City, Mo., as the newest receptionist. Hayes will serve as the customer service liaison between AHA members and customer service representatives.

“This is my first role in the beef industry,” Hayes said. “I am excited to learn all that I can to better serve AHA members.”

Previously, Hayes worked in a variety of administrative professional roles. She was the unit coordinator for the State of Kansas Department for Children and Families and was co-owner and office administrator for Hayes Properties, LLC.

“Having Debbie join the team has been an asset to the customer service department at the AHA with her prior experience,” says Laura Loschke, education and information services coordinator, and records supervisor. “We look forward to her getting to know breeders and assist them with their various needs throughout the association.”

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The American Hereford Association, with headquarters in Kansas City, Mo., is one of the largest U.S. beef breed associations. The not-for-profit organization along with its subsidiaries — Certified Hereford Beef (CHB) LLC, Hereford Publications Inc. (HPI) and American Beef Records Association (ABRA) — provides programs and services for its members and their customers, while promoting the Hereford breed and supporting education, youth and research. For press releases and photos, visit Hereford.org/media.