Name: Ichabods of Industry
Start: 2024-11-07T07:30:00-06:00
End: 2024-11-07T08:30:00-06:00
Location: Washburn University - Bradbury Thompson Alumni Center

Join Washburn University for the next Ichabods of Industry. Crystal Hurla, b ed '01, and Derek Thompson, bba '99, of Nextgen Cattle Co. will join us for a Q & A discussion.
7:30 a.m. | Breakfast
8 a.m. | Presentation
$10 for alumni members | $13 for non-members
Crystal Hurla, b Ed ’01, serves as a Cattle Analyst at NextGen Cattle Co. in Paxico, Kansas, where she uses her ranch experience and analytical skills to help guide decisions regarding cattle growth, health, and performance. As a cattle analyst, her goal is to improve genetic gain year after year, resulting in optimal cattle productivity and high quality. Following her graduation from Washburn University, Crystal spent time as an educator and counselor in the Kaw Valley school district before her passion for the cattle industry led her to NextGen. Her connection to Washburn is a family affair, as she met her husband Adam, b Ed ’03, while they were pursuing their education. When she’s not busy at the ranch, you might even spot her at Yager Stadium on Saturdays, cheering on her son, Keller, and his Washburn Football teammates.
Derek Thompson, bba ’99, is the founder and owner of NextGen Cattle Co. in Paxico, Kansas, which has served commercial cattlemen across four separate companies since its founding in 2015. With vast experience in the financial sector as one of the co-founders of Advisors Excel in Topeka, Derek joined forces with his brother, cousin, and long-time friend to bring their vision for a future focused on family into reality. What began as an opportunity to explore their collective passion has now grown into a massive operation, employing more than 500 individuals across all four businesses. With work to be done in all areas of the company from feeding to marketing, breeding to financing, Derek and his co-owners have quickly grown a legacy for future generations – one built on integrity, trust, passion, and vision.