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Addison Randall Named Program and Events Manager for Iowa Pork

Addison Randall is the newest member of the Iowa Pork Producers Association team. She was hired to fill the Program and Events Manager vacancy after Brielle Smeby’s promotion to Producer Outreach Director. Randall graduated from Iowa State University in May with a double major in Animal Science and Ag Communications.

Hailing from Letts, Iowa, Randall grew up on a diversified crop and livestock operation. She served as an intern with Elanco Animal Health, Iowa Corn Growers Association and Kent Nutrition Group prior to joining the staff at the Iowa Pork Producers Association.

Randall’s passion for the pork industry began at a very young age when she would accompany her dad to the farrowing unit to catch a glimpse at the newborn piglets. From there her time spent showing livestock, helping manage her family’s cow-calf herd, and working in a wean-to-finish unit all encouraged her decision to pursue higher education in animal science and a future career in the livestock industry.

“I’ve done a bit of it all,” Randall said. “from sorting pigs and vaccination days to hanging heat lamps and daily walkthroughs. I think my experiences both in the barn and the classroom have given me a respect for the knowledge and hard work people in our industry do daily. Livestock have always held my interest but it’s the people that work every day to feed the world that are my passion, and I am proud to start my career serving and supporting them.”

A recent study abroad trip to Japan and Thailand gave Randall some unique perspectives on the pork industry, and she’s anxious to put her experiences and education to use in her new role with the Iowa Pork Producers Association.

 “Addison has a good background in production agriculture. Her enthusiasm and passion to help the organization and the industry will be big benefits to the team,” CEO Pat McGonegle said.

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Genetics Behind Swine Resilience - Dr. Jenelle Dunkelberger

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In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, Dr. Jenelle Dunkelberger, geneticist at Topigs Norsvin, explains how genetics can improve disease resilience in pigs. She explores how resilience differs from resistance, the role of genetic variation, and how breeding strategies can enhance health and performance under disease pressure. Dr. Dunkelberger also covers practical applications and future implications for swine production. Listen now on all major platforms!

"Controlled experimental trials confirm that differences in mortality and performance under disease pressure are linked to genetic background, even when environmental conditions remain consistent."

Meet the guest: Dr. Jenelle Dunkelberger / jenelle-dunkelberger-9200ab86 is a geneticist at Topigs Norsvin, where she leads the Global Health and Behavior Research Platform. She earned her PhD from Iowa State University, focusing on host genetics and disease response in pigs. Her work centers on improving swine health and performance through genetic selection for resilience and behavior traits.