Sale of Champions: Scholarships, Livestock, and Lifelong Impact for Iowa’s Youth

Celebrating Iowa’s Future: Inside the Sale of Champions at the Iowa State Fair

When it comes to showcasing the very best of Iowa’s agricultural youth, few events match the prestige, tradition, and excitement of the Sale of Champions at the Iowa State Fair. For decades, this signature event has celebrated hard work, rewarded dedication, and created life-changing opportunities for young livestock exhibitors.

We start with Mike Doran, the long-time Sale Manager whose steady leadership has helped transform the event from its humble beginnings—raising just $50,000 in its first year—into a powerhouse that now generates nearly $725,000 annually in livestock sales, scholarships, and awards. Behind the scenes, Mike coordinates sponsors, secures buyers, and ensures that every young exhibitor experiences their moment in the spotlight. His dedication to the Iowa Foundation for Agricultural Advancement (IFAA) has built an enduring tradition of generosity and community support.

Then there’s Joe Stien, a rising star who captured Reserve Grand Champion honors in the 2024 4-H Market Hog competition. Known for his online platform, The Joe Show, Joe uses his voice to spotlight the passion and perseverance of youth in agriculture. From early mornings in the barn to the adrenaline of stepping into the ring, Joe’s story reflects the grit and determination shared by every exhibitor who earns a place in the Sale of Champions.

But the impact of the IFAA goes far beyond the sale ring. Each year, the organization awards over $240,000 in scholarships, including the prestigious Winner’s Circle Scholarships, to students pursuing degrees in agriculture. These investments shape the future of farming, supporting the next generation of leaders who will feed, fuel, and inspire our communities.

Whether you’re a livestock exhibitor, a parent, a sponsor, or simply a fan of the Iowa State Fair, this event is a powerful reminder that tradition, teamwork, and opportunity can change lives. From the scholarship stage to the sale floor, the Sale of Champions is more than an auction—it’s a celebration of Iowa’s agricultural legacy and a promise to its future.

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