The Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery is celebrating leaders who have shaped American society, and among this year’s honorees is a name that resonates deeply across the cattle industry: Dr. Temple Grandin.
Grandin, a scientist, inventor, and long-time advocate for low-stress livestock handling, has been recognized as one of the National Portrait Gallery’s 2025 Portrait of a Nation Honorees. Her portrait will be featured in a new exhibition opening December 12 in Washington, D.C.
A National Spotlight on Animal Welfare and Handling Design
For beef producers, Grandin’s recognition goes far beyond the museum walls. Her research and designs changed the way North America handles cattle. Because of her work, many farms and feedlots use systems that reduce stress, improve safety, and help animals move calmly.
Grandin’s contributions continue to shape everyday practices. Producers use her ideas when training staff, redesigning facilities, or improving cattle flow. As a result, animals stay calmer, and workers stay safer. These improvements also support stronger public trust in beef production.
Her new portrait, created by artist David Lenz, shows her standing with cattle at Waseda Farms in Wisconsin. The farm built the first Grandin-designed handling system in the state. The artwork highlights her long-standing belief that good design supports both animal welfare and efficient work.
A Moment of Reflection for the Beef Sector
While the exhibition also includes portraits of Jamie Dimon, Joy Harjo, and Steven Spielberg, Grandin’s inclusion stands out for agriculture. Few people from the livestock industry receive national cultural recognition. Her presence in this exhibition shows how important animal welfare has become—not only in agriculture but across society.
For producers, this is also a reminder that:
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good handling starts with good training
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calm cattle move better and stay healthier
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small improvements can create safer working conditions
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consumers continue to value strong welfare practices
Grandin’s work remains central to these efforts, even decades after her first designs appeared in processing plants and feedlots.
Exhibit Information
Portrait of a Nation: 2025 Honorees
National Portrait Gallery, Washington, D.C.
December 12, 2025 – November 8, 2026
Admission is free.
