Winning first runner-up was Madison Dent, representing Warren County Cattlemen's. She received a $500 scholarship. The second runner-up was Cadence Koch, representing Franklin County Cattlemen's. She received a $250 scholarship. Also competing was Mary Grace Warden, representing Polk County Cattlemen's.
Each of the four contestants presented a speech on a topic relating to the beef industry and interviewed with a panel of three judges. The competition was held January 20, 2024, in Osage Beach. The Missouri Beef Queen will be responsible for representing the Missouri beef industry at livestock shows, conferences and events throughout the year.
The Missouri CattleWomen's Association hosts the contest each year. It is supported by the Missouri Cattlemen's Association and Missouri's Cattlemen Foundation. Jim and Mila Lowry, Haines Farms, Central Bank-Dawn Shellabarger, Bescher Farms, Sue Day, Wood Family Farms, Poor Farms Cattle, and Andrea Kientzy are all sponsors.
"The Missouri Beef Queen Contest serves as a launching pad for young cattlewomen to become advocates for the beef industry," said Jennifer Poor, Beef Queen Committee member, alongside Carolyn Dieckman and Darla Haines, chair. "Through this program, the queen gains the necessary tools to become a leader for Missouri beef producers."
The annual convention concluded Saturday, January 20.