Applications Open for 2026 Neil Dierks Swine Science Scholarship

The National Pork Industry Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing research and education in the pork industry, is now accepting applications for the 2026 Neil Dierks Scholarship.

This $5,000 scholarship honors Neil Dierks, the longtime CEO of the National Pork Producers Council, and recognizes his remarkable leadership and dedication to the pork industry throughout his career. The scholarship is awarded annually to a graduate student enrolled at a land-grant university and pursuing studies that directly support the pork industry.

“Neil’s leadership and vision left a lasting impact on producers and the broader agricultural community,” said John Anderson, pork producer from Minnesota and NPPC representative on the NPIF board. “This scholarship reflects his commitment to fostering future leaders and ensures that graduate students with a passion for strengthening the pork industry have the opportunity to build on that legacy.”

Applications for the Neil Dierks Scholarship, funded through contributions to NPIF, are due by December 31, 2025. The recipient will be announced during the National Pork Industry Forum, to be held March 4 to 6, 2026 in Kansas City, Missouri.

A complete application includes a cover sheet and supporting documents. The cover sheet must list the applicant’s full name; the undergraduate institution and degree earned; the graduate institution (current or applied); and contact information, including email, mobile phone, and both home and school mailing addresses. Applicants must also submit an essay that demonstrates their understanding of at least one current or future issue confronting the pork industry and describes how they would address it, along with a brief letter outlining the role they envision for themselves in the pork industry after completing their graduate degree. Two letters of reference are required from current or former professors or industry professionals.

The Neil Dierks Scholarship complements the Lois Britt Memorial Pork Industry Scholarship, also sponsored by NPIF in partnership with CME Group. That program awards $2,500 each to ten undergraduate students pursuing careers in the pork industry, with recipients also recognized annually at the National Pork Industry Forum. Together, these programs demonstrate NPIF’s ongoing commitment to supporting education and developing the next generation of industry leaders.

For full eligibility requirements and to apply, check out NPPC’s online form. If you have any questions, please contact Lucy Russell, NPPC Director of Producer Engagement, at 515-864-7983 or [email protected].

To learn more about the Neil Dierks Scholarship or to make a contribution to the National Pork Industry Foundation, please visit the NPIF webpage.