The Pork Checkoff has awarded 20 scholarships to college students around the United States as part of its strategy to develop the pork industry's future human capital. A National Pork Board committee judged the pool of 48 applicants based on scholastic merit, leadership activities, involvement in the pork production industry and the applicants’ plans for a career in pork production.

“The Pork Checkoff is proud to support these young people who are showing a real interest in the pork industry as a career choice,” said Steve Rommereim, president of the National Pork Board and a producer from Alcester, South Dakota. “As our industry continues to evolve, we know we will need more qualified young people to take on the various roles in the pork chain. We must support this effort to help ensure the next generation of talent for our dynamic industry.”

This year’s top scholarship recipients are Jenna Chance and Jadelyn Stewart, who will receive a $5,000- and $3,500-scholarship, respectively. Chance, a senior at Kansas State University, is majoring in animal science. She plans to pursue a master of science degree in swine nutrition at Kansas State University. Ultimately, she would like to complete her doctorate in swine nutrition and become a nutritionist with a production company.

Stewart, a senior at Northwest Missouri State University, is majoring in animal science. She plans to pursue a master of science degree at the University of Illinois. She would like to tailor her degree program to include both animal and environmental science and ultimately work in the swine industry. The other award recipients will receive $2,000 each.

“Recruiting the next generation of thought leaders and decision makers for the swine industry is critical to making continual improvement in how we raise pigs,” said Chris Hostetler, Director of Animal Science for the National Pork Board.

“The Pork Industry Scholarship programme supports students that have made a commitment to the swine industry to pursue advanced degrees in areas of study directly related to pork production.”