Mark Hoge, a Livestock judging coach with Western Illinois University’s Agriculture program, has been named one of four finalists for the prestigious “Best Sr. College Livestock Coach” category in the 2024 Sullivan’s Best of the Barns Awards. This national awards program recognizes leading professionals and organizations within the livestock and agriculture industry.
Hoge’s fellow finalists represent programs at Texas Tech University, Oklahoma State University and Kansas State University. Being named a finalist highlights the excellence of WIU’s Agriculture program, which is a competitive force in the livestock industry despite being a smaller institution than its peers.
Sullivan’s Best of the Barns Awards is regarded as one of the most prestigious honors in the livestock industry. Winners are chosen by peers in the industry and will be announced in the coming weeks. The program celebrates individuals and organizations that demonstrate exceptional contributions and leadership in their respective fields.
WIU’s Agriculture program is known nationally for its ability to recruit and develop outstanding livestock judging team members and prepare students for success in the livestock and agriculture industries. This nomination reflects the program’s dedication to excellence, consistency and the strong leadership provided by coaches like Hoge.
For more information about WIU’s Agriculture program and its achievements, visit wiu.edu/ag.
To vote for Hoge, visit go.wiu.edu/4g0iJp2.
***Courtesy of Western Illinois University***
