Celebrating Champions of Care during US National Pork Month

In celebration of National Pork Month in the US, Zoetis is shining a spotlight on the unsung heroes of the pork industry—those who care deeply for animals and the people who raise them. 

Through its Champions of Care initiative, Zoetis is recognizing individuals who exemplify the values of compassion, mentorship, and dedication to the future of agriculture.

“A pig farm is only as healthy as its animals. It’s the people who make the difference,” said Wes Lack, National Sales Director, Zoetis Pork. “Every day, we see the spirit of caregiving by those who put their passion into practice. It speaks to everything that is right about American agriculture and what Champions of Care highlights.”

One standout example is Jim Coakley, Swine Herd Manager at Oklahoma State University’s Swine Education and Research Center. Coakley not only oversees the health and welfare of the university’s swine herd, but also mentors students—many of whom are experiencing agriculture for the first time.

“Through caring for the university swine herd, our students have the opportunity to learn solid work ethics and good morals,” Coakley explained. “My biggest goal is to see students graduate with a degree and land a job that benefits agriculture.”

Raised on a family farm in Hobart, Oklahoma, Coakley brings a lifetime of experience and humility to his role. Whether he’s teaching students how to assess animal health by observing eyes, ears, skin, and behavior, or guiding young farm employees, his approach is rooted in care and education.

“Animal health is the most important. We have to provide a level of defense for combating diseases and be committed to providing a safe, high-quality product raised as efficiently as possible,” said Coakley.

His impact is felt far beyond the classroom. McKenzie Squires, a Strategic Account Manager for Zoetis, noted, “Jim goes out of his way to help kids learn animal husbandry skills and opens doors to an industry many wouldn’t have otherwise considered.” 

She added that his students regularly graduate “inspired, informed and ready to make their own contributions to agriculture.”

This National Pork Month, Zoetis is proud to share Coakley’s story and those of other Champions of Care who work behind the scenes to support pig health, care for people, and strengthen the pork industry for generations to come.

Watch a video of Jim Coakley’s story at: www.zoetisus.com/pork/pig-health-monthly/inspiring-the-next-generation.