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Applications Now Open for 2026 Neil Dierks Scholarship Honoring Former NPPC CEO

By Abbey Canon

The National Pork Industry Foundation (NPIF), a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing research and education in the pork industry, is now accepting applications for the 2026 Neil Dierks Scholarship.

This $5,000 scholarship honors Neil Dierks, the longtime CEO of the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) and recognizes his remarkable leadership and dedication to the pork industry throughout his career. The scholarship is awarded annually to a graduate student enrolled at a land-grant university and pursuing studies that directly support the pork industry.

“Neil’s leadership and vision left a lasting impact on producers and the broader agricultural community,” said John Anderson, pork producer from Minnesota and NPPC representative on the NPIF board.

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