Prior to the National Hereford Bull Show at the 2023 American Royal hosted in Kansas City, Mo., Marie Prodell, Algoma, Wis., was selected to represent the breed as the 2024 National Hereford Queen. Her first official event as the National Hereford Queen will be at the North American International Livestock Exposition in Louisville, Ky.

Prodell is the 21-year-old daughter of Shawn and Jenny Prodell and has goals of making a difference in the Hereford industry by sharing her story as a first-generation Hereford breeder. This industry developed her into the person she is today and helped steer her toward her future career. Prodell is a senior at the University of Wisconsin – River Falls, studying agricultural business and animal science. When she graduates, she hopes to continue her education in graduate school, studying meat science while expanding her Hereford operation and starting an agricultural event planning business.

Five state queens from across the country represented their respective state with the goal of being selected as the National Hereford Queen. The National Hereford Queen attends events, shows and sales, including the Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE) to present awards and assist with ring presentations.

This young lady is a breed icon, as she is dawned in a white dress, boots, statement sash and classic crown. The National Hereford Women support this program and in conjunction with the Hereford Youth Foundation of America, the queen will receive a $10,000 scholarship at the conclusion of her reign to support her future education.