Applications open for pork’s $5,000 Neil Dierks Scholarships

The National Pork Industry Foundation is now accepting applications for the Neil Dierks Scholarship. This scholarship honors Neil Dierks, the National Pork Producers Council’s former longtime CEO, and his remarkable contributions to the industry.

The $5,000 scholarship is awarded annually to a graduate student enrolled in a land-grant university pursuing a field of study that directly supports the pork industry.

“We are honored to continue this scholarship in recognition of Neil’s exceptional legacy,” said Dwight Mogler, an Iowa pork producer and NPPC representative on the NPIF board. “Neil’s unwavering commitment to mentoring the next generation of pork industry leaders was truly inspiring. Through this scholarship, we are committed to carrying forward his vision by empowering students who are passionate about shaping the future of our industry.”

To be eligible, applicants must be current or have applied for acceptance into a graduate program focused on swine studies. A cover sheet should be prepared, including the applicant’s name, the school where they completed their undergraduate degree along with the degree title, the name of the school they are currently enrolled in for graduate work, and their contact information (email address, cell phone number, and home and school mailing addresses).

Applicants must also demonstrate their understanding of at least one issue facing the pork industry today or in the future, and explain how they would address it. Additionally, they must write a brief letter outlining the role they envision for themselves in the pork industry after completing their graduate degree.

Two letters of reference from current or former professors or industry professionals are required. Essays will be evaluated based on clarity and expression, persuasiveness, originality, and relevance to the topic.

Applications for the Neil Dierks Scholarship, funded through generous contributions to the NPIF, are due by December 31, 2024. The recipient will be announced at the National Pork Industry Forum, scheduled for March 12-14, 2025, in Orlando, Florida.

This scholarship program complements the Lois Britt Memorial Pork Industry Scholarship, also sponsored by NPIF in partnership with the CME Group. The Lois Britt Scholarship awards $2,500 each to ten undergraduates pursuing careers in the pork industry, with recipients recognized annually at the National Pork Industry Forum.

For full eligibility requirements and to apply, check out NPPC’s online form. If you have any questions, please contact Lucy Russell, NPPC Manager of Producer Engagement, at 515-864-7983 or russelll@nppc.org.