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Crowder Ag Division Calf Fundraiser Auction

  • April 6, 2026

    For Immediate Release
    Office of Public Information
    Crowder College

    RE: Crowder Ag Division Calf Fundraiser Auction

    Carthage, MO – Crowder College Agriculture Division held its 13th Annual Calf Fundraiser Auction on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at the Joplin Regional Stockyard with the registered Red Angus heifer bringing $18,000. This year’s calf is donated by Dr. Dale and Diane Kunkel, Kunkel Farms, in Neosho, MO.

    Each year, the Newton McDonald County Cattlemen’s Association has a local farmer who donates a beef calf for the benefit of Crowder Aggies. These funds provide opportunities for students in our agriculture programs to attend workshops, conferences and contests throughout the year.

    The fitted and halter broke heifer entered the ring and the audience bid multiple times for donations before she finally sold to Bo Johnson of Neosho.

    “This year’s heifer marks a considerable increase in funds raised compared to prior years,” stated Shawna Estep, Agriculture Division Chair. “The efforts to get the word out and the sponsorships really helped. I would like to thank all those who donated or sponsored this event. It allows us to help ease the burden of college expenses for students while providing opportunities to experience agriculture in travel seminars and competitions both locally and internationally.”

    Sponsors for this year’s calf auction included: Missouri Cattlemen’s Association (Newton & McDonald Counties), Joplin Regional Stockyards, FarmTalk, B&M Tire, Hunke Spray Services, S & H Farm Supply, Eubanks Equipment, SmartLic Suppliements, DD Farm & Feed, B&M Tire – Yokohama, Goswick Ag Lime & Fertilizer, Superior Steel Sales, Frye Farm Trailers, 4-State Moto Complex, The 808 Ranch, Red Angus Association, and Cornerstone Bank.

    Crowder College’s Agriculture Division offers transfer and workforce degrees in a variety of programs. For more information visit our website: https://www.crowder.edu/program/agriculture/

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    If you have additional questions, please feel free to contact CindyBrown@Crowder.edu or Shawna Estep, Agriculture Division Chair/Instructor: 417.455.5590.

    Photos:

    • Heifer in the sale ring
    • Crowder College Ag students, staff, Newton & McDonald County Cattlemen’s members along with Dale and Diane Kunkel.
  • February 19, 2025

    For Immediate Release
    Office of Public Information
    Crowder College

    RE: Crowder Ag Division Calf Fundraiser Auction

    Carthage, MO – Crowder College Agriculture Division will hold its 13th Annual Calf Fundraiser Auction on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, 11am, at the Joplin Regional Stockyard. This year’s calf is donated by Dr. Dale and Diane Kunkel, Kunkel Farms, in Neosho, MO.

    Each year, the Newton McDonald County Cattlemen’s Association has a local farmer who donates a beef calf for the benefit of Crowder Aggies. These funds provide opportunities for students in our agriculture programs to attend workshops, conferences and contests throughout the year.

    Joplin Regional Stockyards will bring the March 1, 2025 registered red angus heifer into the ring at 11am to sell with many of the purchasers donating the calf back to auction again with the last bidder taking her home.

    Last year’s calf raised nearly $6,000 for Crowder Agriculture. Besides the bidders the following businesses help sponsor the event: Missouri Cattlemen’s Association (Newton & McDonald Counties), Joplin Regional Stockyards, FarmTalk, B&M Tire, Hunke Spray Services, S & H Farm Supply, Eubanks Equipment, SmartLic Supplements, DD Farm & Feed, B&M Tire – Yokohama, Goswick Ag Lime & Fertilizer, Superior Steel Sales, Frye Farm Trailers, 4-State Moto Complex, The 808 Ranch, Red Angus Association, and Cornerstone Bank.

    Dr. Chett Daniel, Crowder College President, commented, “We sincerely appreciate the calf donation from the Kunkel family. As local farmers and small business owners in the area, they are truly invested in the success of our region and its young people. The Cattlemen’s Association continues to be one of Crowder’s strongest community partners. Our students and the ag program are incredibly fortunate to have cattlemen’s association in our corner.”

    Crowder College’s Agriculture Division offers transfer and workforce degrees in a variety of programs. For more information visit our website: https://www.crowder.edu/academics/departments/agriculture/

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    Attached please find a copy of the sale flyer.

    Joplin Regional Stockyard is located at 10131 Cimarron Road, Carthage, MO.

    If you have additional questions, please feel free to contact CindyBrown@Crowder.edu or Shawna Estep, Agriculture Division Chair/Instructor: 417.455.5590.

  • August 15, 2025 @ 7:30 pm 9:30 pm

    13th Annual Roughrider Rodeo, Aug 15 & 16, 7:30pm nightly.

    Mutton Busting starts at 7pm, followed by IPRA/ACRA sanctioned rodeo. Tickets available: Crowder College | EVENTS

    Advance tickets: $12-Adults, $8-children ages 6-12; Gate tickets: $15-Adults, $10-children. Proceeds help fund scholarships for Crowder Agriculture students.

    $8 – $15 Advance tickets: $12-Adults, $8-children ages 6-12; Gate tickets: $15-Adults, $10-children. Proceeds help fund scholarships for Crowder Agriculture students.
    608 Field Ave
    Neosho, MO 64850 United States
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    View Venue Website