2026 Herdsman of the Year, Craig Sand, alongside Mark McCully, American Angus Association CEO and 2026 Miss American Angus, Claire Murnin.
Taking a brief moment of quiet, even as the buzz of the Herdsman’s Social hummed in the background, Craig Sand paused in the barn aisles at Cattlemen’s Congress on Jan. 9, 2026, in Oklahoma City, Okla. In his hands was a newly awarded buckle, its silver surface engraved with words that marked a milestone moment in his career: 2026 Angus Herdsman of the Year.
“I appreciate everybody that voted for me,” Sand said. “I’ve worked a lot of years at this, so it means a lot to me and my family.”
The Herdsman of the Year award honors an Angus enthusiast who has demonstrated long-term dedication to herd management, thoughtful decision-making and the continued advancement of their cow herd. It is an award rooted in consistency, discipline and vision—qualities that have defined Sand’s nearly three decades in the cattle business.
Sand entered the industry in 1998, building his career through hands-on experience in the barn and a commitment to relationships that have shaped his professional path. Over the years, those experiences helped form a philosophy centered on stewardship, attention to detail and a respect for the animals and people that make up the Angus business.
Today, Sand works at Circle M Farms — Oklahoma, where he oversees the show and sale cattle operations. He joined the operation in May 2024 after being approached about the position by Chan Phillips, a figure Sand describes as a mentor and a key influence in his career.
Sand views Angus breeders as the driving force behind progress in both the purebred and commercial sectors of the cattle industry. He credits members of the American Angus Association® with supplying genetics that elevate beef production across the board.
“The Angus breed is so important for the beef industry, not only for purebred breeders but for all cattle breeders using Angus genetics to crossbreed and make cattle better,” he added.
While Sand places strong value on cattle quality and genetics, he is quick to point out that the people behind the breed are what truly strengthen the Association. That belief is something he has passed along to his sons, particularly his eldest, Colton, who has come to understand the message in a more personal way.
“My son took on a full-time position working underneath me,” Sand said, explaining that the experience has reinforced the importance of the Angus family and the relationships within it.
Sand also emphasized that his professional accomplishments reflect a shared family commitment, one that extends beyond long days in the barn.
“I’d like to give a special thank you to my wife, Jessica; my son, Colton, for helping all this year, to make this a success; my youngest son, Coy, for being a support,” he said.
His gratitude reaches beyond his immediate family as well. Sand specifically acknowledged Craig McCallum, his employer, and Phillips for their guidance and encouragement, crediting both men with helping him reach one of the most meaningful achievements of his career.
As he looked again at the engraved buckle, Sand allowed himself a moment to reflect on what the honor represents.
“It just means a lot for me, knowing that my peers voted on me to win this year,” he said.
Nominees for the 2026 Angus Herdsman of the Year award were selected by a committee made up of previous recipients. The group evaluates candidates based on their devotion, skill and long-term investment in improving a specific herd and the Angus breed as a whole.
This year’s nominees included Michael Jones of Express Ranches; Cole Kaufman of Oakley Farms; and Brad Paetzel of Hortsman Cattle Company.
The final award recipient is chosen through a peer voting process hosted by the Association. To be eligible to vote, exhibitors must have entered at least one qualifying show in 2025, including Cattlemen’s Congress, the National Western Stock Show, Western National Angus Futurity, Atlantic National, American Royal or the North American International Livestock Exposition.
To learn more about Sand or the other three 2026 Angus Herdsman of the Year candidates, visit https://www.angus.org/angus-media/angus-journal/2025/12/2026-angus-herdsman-of-the-year-candidates-announced.
**News release gathered from The American Angus Association.**
