Get to Know - Jenny Thomas
Holstein World: Describe your position at Holstein World. When did you first begin working, what are your primary responsibilities, favorite tasks, etc.
Jenny Thomas: I started with Holstein World in January 2006 working on special projects including the first issue of AllBreed Access. I then joined the staff as a full-time employee in March 2006 as a breeder advertising sales representative. My duties include sales and editorial responsibilities for AllBreed Access as well as Internet sales for both the Holstein World and AllBreed Access websites. In addition, I help with show, sale and event coverage for both the Holstein World and AllBreed Access publications. The most current addition to my list is the All-American Jersey Contest which has exceeded many expectations in its first year!
Holstein World: Share with our readers a little bit about your personal background. What you did before Holstein World, schooling, family members, pets, hobbies, etc.
Jenny Thomas: I grew up on my family dairy - Richman Farms in Lodi, OH. The farm consists of 700 acres and they are currently milking 40 head of registered Holsteins, Jerseys and a couple Brown Swiss. I attended Ohio State, where I earned a degree with a major in Animal Science and a minor in AgBusiness and Economics. After graduation, I worked for Ohio Farm Bureau as an Organization Director. Two years later, I moved back to the family farm and worked for Ohio Holstein Association as the Office Manager.
In December, I married Nathan Thomas of Triple-T Holsteins, North Lewisburg, Ohio where we currently reside. We board show heifers and cows, while milking our small herd of Holsteins and Jerseys.
My hobbies and pets are much of the same creature…the cows! So much of my life revolves around the cattle and the people that work with them.
Holstein World: What is one of your favorite memories working here? Most exciting accomplishment?
Jenny Thomas: I currently am drawing near to my one year anniversary….and can not believe that it has already been that long! I have enjoyed every minute! What they say is true…time flies when you are having fun and surrounded by great people. It has been a great experience to be part of such a close-knit and cooperative team.
As far as my most memorable moments…my first official week of work sent me on a road trip in Maryland with Frank Putman. We had a great time and a very successful week during our herd visits. We dubbed our trip “Frank & Jen’s Great Adventure.” I felt very fortunate to be able to visit with the great people and their cattle and calling it my ‘job.’
AllBreed Access has been a work in progress, growing and evolving with each issue. The website in return has gained popularity and both the print and internet have taken off to a new level! Now, we have added the All-American Jersey Contest for the deserving Jersey breeders. It has been a great sense of accomplishment to see recognition given to these well deserved individuals and their owners.
Holstein World: Is there any additional information you’d like to share?
Jenny Thomas: Growing up, I always leafed through the pages of the Holstein World. I remember seeing great cattle and high profile herds that covered the pages. I only hoped that one day, I would have something ‘good enough’ to advertise. Now when I reflect, I realize that there is always someone looking to buy…but self-promotion is essential to be found. It does not matter if you do not have the winner from Madison, you still have ’something’ that ’someone’ could be looking for! BE FOUND!