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Hanlon joins Iowa Pork Producers Association as communications manager

Olivia Hanlon has joined the Iowa Pork Producers Association team as the new communications manager. She comes to IPPA from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, where she served for four years as an agricultural and natural resources specialist for the ISU Small Farms team and worked as the executive secretary for the Iowa Specialty Crop Growers Association.

Hanlon grew up on a diversified livestock farm outside of Madrid, Iowa. She received her Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Business from Iowa State University and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in business analytics.

“This feels like a great opportunity to merge my lifelong passion for agriculture with my professional experience,” Hanlon said. “From growing up on a farm and working at a swine finishing operation to studying agricultural business at Iowa State and my experience at ISU Extension, I’ve gained a well-rounded perspective on the agriculture industry. I’m eager to leverage this background to effectively promote and support the pork industry here in Iowa."

Hanlon will be focusing on the Iowa Pork Producer magazine, news releases and website content, and preparing materials for the Iowa Pork Congress.

“Olivia brings an in-depth knowledge of Iowa agriculture, a strong work ethic, and a positive attitude to our team and will be a great addition to the Iowa Pork office,” said Kevin Hall, IPPA communications director. “Her wide set of skills will help elevate our communications department to new heights.”

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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.