TCA’s First President Dr. Bob Coley Reflects On Association’s History & Future

During the 2026 TCA Convention, TCA Talk had the opportunity to spend some time with Dr. Bob Coley, who served as the first President of Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association when the organization was founded in 1985. In addition to looking back at the early years of TCA, Dr. Coley discusses how some of those early grassroots efforts that were a part of building the association still apply today. As an example, Dr. Coley points to the work that goes into strengthening TCA’s county-level groups and increasing membership to ensure all beef producers benefit from TCA’s overall advocacy and resources.

Dr. Coley also notes the important role the next generations of producers will play in furthering the reach of TCA as the association continues to move into the future. As you will hear, Dr. Coley believes that engaging youth through 4-H and Future Farmers of America will be vital to increase youth awareness and involvement that will benefit the cattle industry for years to come. As he looks back on what started in 1985, Dr. Coley is quick to credit the many people who took over leadership roles and the effective executive directors who have managed the organization over the last 40 years. To learn more about the TCA, please visit the association’s website, TNCattle.org.