July 21, 2026
PDF FORMAT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Jay L. Weiker, National Association of Animal Breeders
Email: jweiker@naab-css.org Office Phone:(608) 827-0277
KALLIE HILL AWARDED 2026 NAAB DOAK GRADUATE FELLOWSHIP
Madison, WI – July 21, 2026 – The National Association of Animal Breeders (NAAB) is pleased to announce that Kallie Hill has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 NAAB Doak Graduate Fellowship.
Hill is the eighth recipient of the fellowship and was selected for her commitment to advancing bovine reproductive physiology and genetics. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree with dual majors in Animal Science and Marketing Communications from the University of Wisconsin–River Falls in May 2025 and will continue her Master of Science studies at Iowa State University under the guidance of Dr. Karl Kerns.
Her graduate research will investigate the biological determinants of bull fertility using advanced imaging and computational approaches to identify sperm characteristics associated with fertility outcomes. The project aims to improve fertility prediction through more precise, data-driven evaluation methods.
Raised in the equine industry, Hill developed a passion for animal reproduction and genetics while managing her own herd of horses. As a first-generation cattle producer, she built her own cattle herd from the ground up while gaining extensive hands-on experience in reproduction, herd management, and genetics.
At the University of Wisconsin–River Falls, Hill participated in reproductive management of the university's beef herd through heat detection, synchronization, artificial insemination, and embryo transfer programs. She also managed reproductive care for broodmares, conducted undergraduate research on reproductive synchronization in beef cattle, and served as a teaching assistant and instructor in equine reproduction courses.
Following graduation, Hill joined GENEX as a Reproductive Program Senior Technician in Minnesota, where she worked directly with cattle producers implementing artificial insemination programs. This experience reinforced her interest in improving reproductive efficiency through research.
"Receiving the 2026 NAAB Doak Graduate Fellowship is an incredible honor and a tremendous opportunity," said Hill. "I am excited to work with Dr. Karl Kerns at Iowa State University and contribute to research that advances our understanding of bull fertility. I hope my work will help develop more accurate fertility evaluation tools that benefit cattle producers."
The NAAB Doak Graduate Fellowship provides support for students pursuing a Master of Science degree in bovine genetics or bovine male reproductive physiology. The fellowship was established to develop future leaders with the technical and management skills needed by the bovine genetic improvement industry.
"Kallie's experience with GENEX has given her first-hand insight into the reproductive challenges faced by cattle producers," said Jay Weiker, President and CEO of NAAB. "Her interest in understanding the factors influencing male fertility, combined with her research experience and enthusiasm for the cattle industry, make her an outstanding recipient of the NAAB Doak Graduate Fellowship. We look forward to the contributions she will make to the industry."
The National Association of Animal Breeders is the national trade association for artificial insemination businesses. NAAB members account for approximately 95% of dairy and beef semen sold in the United States and market semen to more than 120 countries around the world.
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