American Akaushi Association 2026 Convention Press Release
The American Akaushi Association successfully hosted its annual convention, June 18-20, 2026, bringing together members, industry leaders, and partners for several days of education, fellowship, and celebration of the Akaushi breed.
The event began Thursday with the highly anticipated Branded Beef Challenge, where Sixteen Peaks Cattle Company earned top honors. As part of this achievement, the company will be permitted to use the “Branded Beef Challenge Grand Champion” label on all of their meat packaging for the next year.
Friday’s schedule included industry tours at the Texas A&M Beef Center and the Rosenthal Meat Science Center, followed by lunch, a trade show, and the Stars of Akaushi Sale, which generated an impressive $459,775 in gross sales.
Saturday’s program featured lunch, insightful presentations from leading industry experts, and the annual awards ceremony. Attendees heard from distinguished speakers including Dr. Andy Herring, Dr. Jason Smith, and Dr. David Anderson of Texas A&M University, along with Colin Woodall of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association.
The association proudly inducted Tim and Suzie Stallings, 2F Akaushi Cattle, San Jacinto Ranch, and Herff Cornelius into the Hall of Fame. The Aschermann Family was honored with the Legacy Award, and lifetime members were also recognized for their contributions to the industry.
Throughout the weekend, attendees enjoyed Akaushi beef at every meal while building fellowship, strengthening friendships, and exchanging valuable industry insights.
During the convention, the Board of Directors—Tim Stallings (Chairman), Andrew Pryor (Vice Chairman), Howard Davis (Treasurer), Alyssa Hind (Secretary), Greg Anderson, Aaron Harris, Mark Ganskop, and Ronald Beeman—also shared important organizational updates. The association announced a transition to a new HerdBook system, Helical, with an anticipated launch date of September 1.
Additionally, new rule changes were approved to better support breeders. Fullblood cattle will now be permitted to have white markings, provided DNA confirms 100% Fullblood Akaushi status. Purebred cattle may also have markings if DNA verifies at least 93.75% Akaushi. Purebred cattle will be registered with no inspection or upgrading fee.
The weekend was a strong reflection of the continued growth and momentum within the Akaushi industry, highlighting both its rich heritage and forward-looking innovation.