World Jersey Cattle Bureau
Royal Jersey Showground
La Route de la Trinite
Trinity, Jersey JE3 5JP

Contact: Cherie L. Bayer, Ph.D.
+1-614/861-3636 Ext. 334

Press Release: 21st Sept 2004

JERSEY BREEDER SELECTED INTERNATIONAL PERSON OF YEAR

Gonzalo Maldonado Gómez, D.V.M., who has worked tirelessly to help develop the dairy industry in his home country of Colombia and promoted the Jersey breed worldwide, has been named by World Dairy Expo Inc. as the International Person of the Year for 2004.

The award is presented annually to an individual who has made significant contributions to international relations, business development, trade, or cooperation in the dairy industry. The numerous contributions of Dr. Maldonado, of Bogotá, Colombia, will be recognized September 29, 2004, at the World Dairy Expo Dinner with the Stars in Madison, Wis.

As the General Manager and owner of Tri-State Ltda. for 37 years, Dr. Maldonado has been a pioneer in introducing U.S. dairy cattle genetics into Colombia.

“He always pushes to achieve and increase genetics and management in his own herd – and for his fellow countrymen,” said Roger Ripley, president and CEO of Accelerated Genetics. Modern genetic selection has been advanced in that country through Dr. Maldonado’s efforts, supported by his company’s sales team. Emphasis has been placed on linear type evaluation and mating programs, plus A.I. training for Colombian producers.

As the president of the Asociacion Colombiana de Criadores de Ganado Jersey (ASO Jersey), Dr. Maldonado has put a new vision to work in its publication, Jersey Colombia. In the last three years, he has taken the role of editor and developed the publication into more of an educational handbook for Spanish-speaking Jersey breeders than a typical breed promotion magazine.

Dr. Maldonado serves on the Council of the World Jersey Cattle Bureau, enabling him to visit dairy operations in such countries as Italy and South Africa in recent years. In 2002, he was elected to serve as Vice President for the Latin American region. His knowledge of the area, plus acute business sense, have been put to good use in advising the world organization on what it can do to expand the use of Jersey genetics in the region.

In addition, he serves on the Board of Directors for both the Colombia Purebred Cattle Association Federation and the National Cattle Fund in Colombia.

Dr. Maldonado’s farm, El Granero, is widely acclaimed with numerous cows recognized on the Honor Roll of the Colombian Holstein Association. He has also exhibited numerous winning Jerseys and Holsteins including the Reserve Senior and Reserve Grand Champion at the national show.

Dr. Maldonado and his wife, Maria Eugenia, have four adult children.