Fair sale of champions highlights ACES partnership

URBANA, Ill. — The Illinois Department of Agriculture announced the winners of the Sale of Champions at the 2025 Illinois State Fair — the premier auction showcasing the top livestock exhibited by Illinois 4-H youth.

Through a new partnership with the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 80% of the meat from these award-winning animals will be processed by ACES’ Meat Science Laboratory and donated to food banks through Feeding Illinois.

“These young exhibitors represent the best of Illinois agriculture — skill, dedication and a commitment to excellence,” said IDOA Director Jerry Costello II. “Through this partnership with the College of ACES, their achievements will have a lasting impact by helping to feed families in need across Illinois.”

The remaining 20% supports education, research and public outreach through the college’s meat sciences program, where students gain hands-on experience in meat processing, food safety and product development.

Winning exhibitors are invited to tour the Meat Science Lab facility, observe processing and see firsthand how their work supports food security.

They may also have their animals’ hides processed as keepsakes and are recognized at the college’s annual Celebrate Food and Ag Day.

Sale of Champion exhibitors are members of Illinois 4-H — the youth development program of U of I Extension, housed in the College of ACES — where they gain hands-on experience in animal husbandry, leadership and service.

“We are so proud of our 4-H youth and their successes,” said Kevin Carey, interim assistant dean and director of 4-H. “Their hard work and dedication within the agricultural industry continues to create the next generation of youth who are ready for work and life.”

The Grand Champion and Land of Lincoln Champion animals are sold to the highest bidders, with proceeds supporting both the exhibitors — who often use the funds for education or reinvest in livestock projects — and agricultural youth programs like 4-H and FFA.

This year, Carey purchased the Grand Champion Dairy Goat Milk, and the College of ACES purchased the Champion Chihuahua Cheese — underscoring the college’s commitment to supporting youth and celebrating Illinois agriculture.

Proceeds from champion processed meats products support ACES’ meats judging program and Sleeter Bull Scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students pursuing careers in the meat industry.

“This effort reflects the land-grant mission in action — connecting the achievements of Illinois youth with service to the broader community,” said Anna Dilger, a professor in the Department of Animal Sciences.

“We are proud to enhance student learning, support Illinois agriculture and help address food insecurity — a win for our students, our industry and our state.”