2023 Industry Leadership Award Recipient

Dee Likes

Kansas Livestock Association Larkspur, CO

Thomas “Dee” Likes of Larkspur, Colorado, and his commitment to causes and achievement of excellence began early. Following a tour of active duty in the U.S. Navy, Likes returned to Kansas and graduated Magna Cum Laude with a bachelor’s degree in animal science from Kansas State University, where he also served as president of the rodeo team.He joined the staff of the Kansas Livestock Association in 1976 after working as a CattleFax analyst.

Likes well known for his work with the Kansas Livestock Association and worked to position the organization as one of the most respected lobbying organizations in Kansas.

In April of 2015, Likes was commended by proclamation from Gov. Sam Brownback and honored with a Tribute Resolution by both the Kansas Senate and House of Representatives for his dedication and leadership given to the Kansas beef industry during his 30-year career as CEO of KLA.