The Hill District Grandstand Livestock Show is excited to welcome Shannon Scotten back to the ring in 2027! After joining us as a judge in 2026, Shannon returns this year to evaluate Market Steers, Breeding Heifers, and Wether Does.

Hailing from Nevada, Missouri, Shannon brings decades of livestock experience, a passion for the industry, and a commitment to developing the next generation of exhibitors. We’re honored to have him return to the Hill District Grandstand.

A Strong Foundation in Agriculture and Education

Shannon’s lifelong connection to livestock began at an early age and has since evolved into a career spanning all facets of the industry. He attended Ft. Scott Community College and Missouri State University, where he further developed his knowledge and skills in agriculture and livestock.

His educational background helped lay the groundwork for his deep understanding of livestock evaluation—expertise he continues to share as a seasoned judge across the country.

Judging Experience

With extensive experience evaluating livestock at the collegiate level and beyond, Shannon has developed a keen eye for excellence across multiple species. Over the years, he has judged shows nationwide, bringing consistency, fairness, and industry knowledge to every ring.

For the 2027 Hill District Grandstand, Shannon will bring that experience to three divisions as he evaluates Market Steers, Breeding Heifers, and Wether Does.

Why Shannon Judges Livestock Shows

Livestock is more than a profession for Shannon—it’s a way of life. His passion comes from a lifetime of involvement in the industry, from the commercial side to raising, selling, showing, and judging livestock.

For Shannon, judging is about more than recognizing quality animals. It is also an opportunity to encourage young people to remain involved in agriculture and continue building upon the traditions established by generations before them.

“I’ve been involved with livestock my entire life and have experienced all aspects of this business—from the commercial side to show animals. It’s something I’m passionate about, and I want to encourage future generations to continue their parents’ and grandparents’ legacy and make this industry even better,” Shannon shared.

His commitment to fostering the future of the livestock industry closely reflects the values of the Hill District Grandstand.

A Rich Family Legacy

Shannon’s passion for livestock is deeply rooted in his family. His wife, Krista, plays an integral role in their cattle, sheep, and goat operation while also teaching 8th grade.

Their children, Spencer and Skyler, have followed in their father’s footsteps, each building impressive careers in livestock judging and education. Spencer teaches and coaches the judging team at Redlands Community College, while Skyler is pursuing his doctoral degree and coaching the judging team at Texas Tech.

Of course, one of Shannon’s greatest joys is spending time with his grandson, Clancy, affectionately described as “the life of the party.” Whether working on the family operation or simply spending time together, family and tradition remain at the heart of everything Shannon does.

Hobbies Outside the Ring

When he isn’t immersed in livestock, Shannon enjoys watching his sons judge shows and spending quality time with his family. He also enjoys golf and hunting, particularly alongside his sons and grandchildren.

Those moments of connection and tradition reflect many of the same values he brings with him into the show ring.

A Message for Exhibitors

Beyond his accomplishments as a livestock judge, Shannon is an advocate for young exhibitors and the lessons learned through showing livestock.

His message to exhibitors is one worth remembering:

“Your hard work and dedication don’t go unnoticed. Remember, it’s not just about winning ribbons but about building skills, character, and lifelong relationships. Enjoy every moment of the experience!”

Welcome Back to the Hill District Grandstand!

We’re thrilled to welcome Shannon Scotten back to the Hill District Grandstand in 2027 and look forward to having his experience and perspective in the Market Steer, Breeding Heifer, and Wether Doe rings.

Having a respected livestock evaluator return to HDGS is something we’re proud of, and we can’t wait for our exhibitors and families to welcome Shannon back to the ring.

Join us in welcoming Shannon Scotten back to the Hill District Grandstand in 2027!