Luke Bjorklund awarded 2023 Dan Johnson Memorial

Left to right: Cheryl Johnson, Luke Bjorklund, Lee Bjorklund, Jack Bjorklund, Doug Bjorklund, Pam Bjorklund

Pictured left to right: Jack Bjorklund, Sam Fisher, Luke Bjorklund and Lee Bjorklund. Sam is their cousin.

Luke Bjorklund of Henning, Minnesota has been attending NAJRAE for 10 years. Luke is the son of  Doug and Pam Bjorklund and is majoring in Animal Science at SDSU.

Upon graduation Luke would like to become a professional services embryologist. He has always been very fascinated with livestock and genetics and would love to assist clients with their genetic improvements. He will also continue to stay heavily involved with the family farm, raising and selling Red Angus cattle. 

Throughout his junior career he has been actively involved within the Red Angus breed by raising cattle on their family’s operation and involvement with the association. The Bjorklunds have been raising Red Angus cattle for over 30 years and with time and dedication have made big improvements within their herd to run amongst some of the best in the country.

Luke has attended numerous state and nationals shows, making some of my biggest dreams come true with national titles. The ribbons and trophies are memorable but the memories and friendships can’t be replaced.

Red Angus cattle are a passion and what Luke has fallen in love with growing up. Having had the opportunity to work with and meet some amazing people in the breed, forming valuable connections and friendships he feel these will last a lifetime. It is a commitment to Red Angus cattle that will help continue to improve the breed, with functional cattle that perform not only in the show ring but also in production.

Growing up in the small town of Henning, Luke learned the value of giving back to his community and is grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the place that has shaped who he is today. Ways in which Luke has given back to his community is assisting at the Henning elementary boys basketball practice teaching basic ball-handling and fundamental skills. Luke is happy to share his knowledge of the livestock industry by mentoring young 4-Hers starting to show livestock. Paying it back through 4-H, incorporating valuable life lessons of responsibility, leadership, and teamwork is important to him. Last but certainly not least Luke volunteers in his church by assisting with the Awana ministry overseeing students during their class.

Throughout high school, extra curricular activities were a very important aspect of our lives. Actively involved in 4-H, basketball, track and field, band, choir and yearbook helped develop strong leadership skills that allowed Luke and his teams to be successful. 

During his first year at SDSU, clubs and organizations that have kept him busy are Block and Bridle, Collegiate Cattlemen’s, and Little International. Luke is excited and looking forward to his second year in the fall and finding new organizations to be apart of.

Luke is also active in managing their show barn and farmhand at Bj Farms. Luke’s responsibilities include managing show and sale cattle, feeding cows, fieldwork and other farm duties.

Congratulations Luke and we wish you great success.