Dr. Jon DeClerck to Serve as Next American Simmental Association Executive Vice President

Dr. Jon DeClerck has been selected as the next American Simmental Association (ASA) Executive Vice President (EVP). DeClerck will assume the position of EVP on July 1, 2025; Dr. Wade Shafer will continue serving as ASA EVP until his official retirement on June 30, 2025. 

DeClerck is a forward-thinking leader with extensive experience in the cattle industry and a lifelong passion for advancing animal science. Holding a PhD in Ruminant Nutrition from Texas Tech University, he has excelled in technical consulting, education, and research. As a Technical Consultant for Purina Animal Nutrition, Dr. DeClerck has advised stakeholders across the beef production cycle in New Mexico, Texas, and Louisiana, combining innovative research with practical solutions to help producers maximize profitability. Previously, he served as a lecturer and livestock judging coach at Texas Tech and Iowa State University, mentoring students and leading multiple national champion livestock and meat evaluation teams. DeClerck has been recognized as a national champion team coach, and is the recipient of numerous industry awards. Raised on a diversified farm near Aledo, Illinois, featuring a Simmental and commercial cow herd, Dr. DeClerck has a deep connection to the breed. A lifelong advocate for Simmental cattle, he is committed to serving the membership and advancing the scientific innovation and growth that have long defined ASA.

Chris Ivie, Chairman of the ASA Board of Trustees, shared, “On behalf of the American Simmental Association Board of Trustees we would like to welcome Dr. Jon DeClerck as our next Executive Vice President. He will work closely with Dr. Wade Shafer over the next six months; we look forward to working with Dr. DeClerck to continue the unprecedented success and growth we are experiencing here at the ASA.”