ASA Welcomes Dr. Elizabeth Dressler as ASA Geneticist
The American Simmental Association (ASA) is proud to announce the hire of Elizabeth Dressler, filling the role of ASA Geneticist. Dressler recently completed her doctoral degree at Kansas State University in animal breeding and genetics. Much of Dressler’s research has been focused on capturing traits that are difficult to measure in beef cattle, including gas fluxes, feed intake, and water intake. She is well-versed in novel trait collection and quantitative genetics, bringing real-world experience in the beef industry to the role.
Dressler grew up on a small cow-calf operation in Berryton, Kansas, just south of Topeka. She received her undergraduate and graduate degrees at KSU, maintaining a 4.0 GPA throughout her studies. In her graduate work, Dressler conducted genetic evaluations, managing phenotype and genotype datasets. By working directly with cooperator herds, Dressler gained valuable experience working one-on-one with beef producers. Dressler’s research has been presented in a number of formats, from academic journals to industry events — she is skilled in communication, understanding the importance of sharing research and findings with real-world producers. In June of 2025, she received a Baker/Cundiff Award from the Beef Improvement Federation, and also presented her research during the educational breakout sessions.
“Dr. Elizabeth Dressler is exactly the kind of forward-thinking geneticist we want at ASA — accomplished, innovative, and passionate about applying science to advance the cattle industry,” Dr. Jon DeClerck, ASA Executive Vice President, shared. “ASA’s progressive producers have always embraced technology to drive progress, and Elizabeth’s gift for turning complex breeding and genetic principles into practical solutions will help them stay ahead in a rapidly evolving beef industry.”
Dressler and her husband, Chase, reside in Manhattan, Kansas, with their miniature Australian Shepherd, Pepper. When she isn’t evaluating beef cattle genetics and gathering valuable data, Dressler enjoys kayaking, reading, country music concerts, and walks with Pepper.