Michigan Pork Producers Association Establishes New 4-H Endowment to Support Michigan’s Future Livestock Leaders

Mar 05, 2026

By Abbey Miller

The Michigan 4-H Foundation is pleased to announce the creation of the Michigan Pork Producers Association 4-H Endowment, established through a five-year pledge from the Michigan Pork Producers Association (MPPA).

This new endowed fund strengthens a longstanding partnership between Michigan Pork Producers, Michigan State University Extension’s 4-H Youth Development program and the Michigan 4-H Foundation. Together, these organizations share a commitment to preparing the next generation of agricultural leaders and strengthening Michigan’s livestock industry.

By establishing this endowment, MPPA is making a lasting investment in high-quality educational experiences for 4-H youth. Annual interest earnings will support Michigan 4-H livestock and animal science programs such as the Michigan 4-H Livestock Workshop, 4-H livestock and meats judging camps and contests, and the 4-H Animal and Veterinary Science Camp. In addition, the endowment will provide sustained support for the Michigan 4-H State Swine Award, which recognizes outstanding achievement by youth in the swine project area. Collectively, these 4-H programs help young people build skills in animal care, biosecurity, nutrition, evaluation, and industry stewardship—competencies essential for the future of Michigan’s pork and overall livestock sectors.

Source : msu.edu

Video: Genetics Behind Swine Resilience - Dr. Jenelle Dunkelberger

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.