Swine Scholars Auction raises record amount

The 2025 Iowa Pork Congress saw a record-breaking fundraising effort for student scholarships in the pork industry. This year’s Dollars for Swine Scholars Auction raised an impressive $62,511, surpassing the previous record of $61,525 set in 2023.

Held in January at the Iowa Events Center in Des Moines, the auction was a highlight of the Iowa Pork Congress festivities. Proceeds from the event will support scholarships for incoming freshmen, returning students, graduate fellowships and interns pursuing careers in the pork industry.

“We are incredibly grateful to the generous individuals and organizations that contributed to this year’s auction,” said Aaron Juergens, president of the Iowa Pork Producers Association. “This event is about investing in the future of the pork industry by supporting the next generation. It was a fantastic night, and we couldn’t be happier with the results.”

One of the most sought-after items was a CINCH World’s Toughest Rodeo package, donated by the Iowa Events Center, which fetched the highest bid of $4,100.

Adding to the excitement, Iowa State Cyclone football players Tyler Moore and Caleb Bacon—both part of the popular “Purchase Moore Hamann Bacon” promotional campaign—were on hand to sign autographs, meet attendees, and help auction their autographed jerseys. Their efforts contributed an additional $3,300 to the scholarship fund.