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Pork Leadership Institute taps 17 for 2025 class

The National Pork Producers Council and the National Pork Board are excited to announce the Class of 2025 for the Pork Leadership Institute, a premier program dedicated to equipping pork producers with the knowledge and skills to lead the industry into the future. This year, 17 exceptional individuals from across the country have been selected to join the program, representing a diverse group of leaders poised to drive innovation and advocacy within the pork sector.

The Class of 2025 includes:

  • Colorado – Jennifer Martin
  • Illinois – Andrew Erickson
  • Illinois – Randy Kuker
  • Indiana – Matt Paschen
  • Indiana – Tanner Smith
  • Iowa – Matt Thome
  • Iowa – Mikel Jones
  • Iowa – Nathan Nieuwendorp
  • Michigan – Forrest McKenzie
  • Mississippi – Alanna Paden
  • Missouri – Brian Gordon
  • North Carolina – Samantha Raynor
  • North Dakota – Nicholas Bundermann
  • Pennsylvania – Weston Specht
  • South Dakota – Dan Howell
  • Tennessee – Brian Strobel
  • Wisconsin – Bailey Fritsch

"As we step into 2025, ensuring the long-term success of America’s pork producers remains our priority," said Bryan Humphreys, NPPC’s CEO. "The Pork Leadership Institute equips participants with the tools and knowledge to advocate for their operations and the broader industry. These individuals are the future of pork production, serving as steadfast voices on the issues that matter most—from navigating legislative challenges to securing the freedom to operate. The graduates of this program will play a pivotal role in shaping a stronger, more resilient pork industry."

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Genetics Behind Swine Resilience - Dr. Jenelle Dunkelberger

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.