The Saddle and Sirloin Club is proud to recognize Jim Kirsch as the 2026 Agriculturist of the Year — an honor selected by the students of North Dakota State University. Jim’s lifelong commitment to agriculture, education, and youth development has left an extraordinary mark on the NDSU community and the livestock industry across the region.

Jim grew up on a diversified grain and livestock operation near Gladstone, North Dakota, where his foundation in agriculture began. After graduating from Dickinson High School in 1975, he attended North Dakota State University and earned a degree in Animal Science. As a student, he was an active member of the Saddle and Sirloin Club and showed beef cattle at Little “I,” sparking an involvement with the organization that would later span decades.

Following his undergraduate studies, Jim completed a Master’s Degree in Reproductive Physiology at NDSU. In 1982, he was hired as a research assistant in the Animal Science Department—a position he would dedicate 41 years to, contributing invaluable support to teaching, research, and student learning. Throughout his career, he instructed the Bovine Pregnancy Diagnosis course, assisted with the Reproductive Physiology Lab, and served on numerous departmental and university committees.

In 1988, Jim became an advisor to the Saddle and Sirloin Club, a role he proudly held for 36 years until his retirement in February 2024. Under his guidance, the club grew from roughly 100 members to more than 300 annually, becoming the largest student organization on campus. Jim’s leadership also elevated NDSU’s presence at the National Block and Bridle Convention, where the university has consistently received top recognition since 2010—an achievement strongly tied to Jim’s vision and dedication.

Beyond campus, Jim has been deeply involved in the livestock industry. He is a past member, director, and president of the North Dakota Polled Hereford Association and, alongside his longtime friend Terry Carter, has developed high-quality Hereford and Angus cattle with an emphasis on easy fleshing, soundness, and structural correctness. He has served as a cattle showman, Red River Valley Fair beef superintendent, board member of the KFYR Agri International, and later the manager of its livestock show. Jim is also an active member of the North Dakota Stockmen’s Association and the North Dakota Angus Association.

A devoted community member, Jim has taught Sunday school, served on the Christine, North Dakota, park board, and sat on the advisory board for Riding on Angel’s Wings in Felton, Minnesota. He has hosted numerous fitting and showing clinics for 4-H and FFA youth, always eager to help the next generation gain confidence and skill.

In 2024, Jim was honored with the prestigious NDSU Gunkelman Award, recognizing individuals who foster joy, positivity, and an uplifting environment across campus - qualities Jim exemplifies every single day.

Above all, Jim Kirsch is celebrated for his unwavering support of young people and his belief in their potential as future leaders in agriculture. His decades of service, mentorship, and advocacy have shaped countless students and strengthened the Saddle and Sirloin Club’s legacy.

For these reasons and many more, the students of NDSU proudly recognize Jim Kirsch as their 2026 Agriculturist of the Year.