For a couple who joke, they were “volun-told” to lead the Tennessee Junior Angus Association (TJAA), Robby and Jerri Lynn Sims have a true heart for the kids in the program. Their passion and commitment to The Volunteer State’s youth was clear as the Sims were recognized as the Advisors of the Year at the 2024 National Junior Angus Show (NJAS) in early July. 

Both held back tears in front of the stadium arena crowd as Alli Perry, a Tennessee native and member of the National Junior Angus Board (NJAB), presented the Sims with a plaque.

“[This award means] everything. It was totally unexpected. We haven’t been doing this very long,” Jerri Lynn says, noting when they started, they weren’t sure they were qualified. “[People in the organization] told us, ‘You don’t have to know what you are doing. You just have to be there for the kids.’ So that’s what we’ve tried to do.”

Tennessee Junior Angus Association advisors Jerri Lynn and Robby Sims were recognized as Advisor of the Year. Pictured (from left) are Caitlyn Brandt, director of events and junior programs; Alli Perry, NJAB director; and Jerri Lynn and Robby Sims.

Perry says the Sims’ have gone above and beyond since they started. They were new to the role when the coronavirus pandemic threatened to keep TJAA from hosting the Eastern Regional Junior Angus Show.

“The Sims’ went through every obstacle; made it their goal to make it happen for us,” Perry recalls. “They did everything in their power to keep it as normal and smooth as possible; it was really impressive.”

Four years later, the Sims’ feel more confident in their role as advisors. 

“We say all the time, it’s not about the placing in the ring, it’s more about the show, this one in particular, being the best-of-the-best of the breed and having an opportunity to have your kids surrounded by some of the best people,” Robby says.

It’s why the couple has spent their tenure working to ensure every junior member from their state has an opportunity to experience the camaraderie. 

“They have made the Tennessee Junior Angus Association a family. They have brought us all together,” Perry says. “They have gotten every single kid involved in some way; they find a place for every kid to take part.”

As they stand ringside at NJAS, Jerry Lynn says their “why” is clear.

“Look at the kids out there now,” Robby explains. “That is what is exciting about the future. There are kids that truly have a passion for show cattle and there are some kids that truly have a passion for production and when you combine all those kids, I think the breed is pretty safe.” 

Editor’s note: The Advisor of the Year award was started in 1980 to recognize the incredible work of state advisors who play a large role in the grassroots effort of developing future Angus and industry leaders. Nominations are due in March of each year. Click here for nomination information.