Neil Dierks scholarship for aspiring Pork Industry leaders

The National Pork Industry Foundation, a non-profit organization overseen by pork industry leaders and managed by the National Pork Producers Council, is pleased to announce the availability of the Neil Dierks Scholarship.  

This scholarship, valued at $5,000, is bestowed annually to a college student pursuing a graduate degree at a land-grant university in a field related to the pork industry. 

Neil Dierks, the former CEO of the National Pork Producers Council, devoted more than three decades to serving the pork industry, making numerous contributions. His efforts included fostering the growth of future leaders and identifying talented individuals with diverse skills to become valuable resources and decision-makers for both the present and future of the industry. Therefore, it is fitting that the foundation has chosen to honor him through this scholarship opportunity. 

Applicants for the scholarship, which is funded through contributions to the pork industry foundation, should submit their applications by the end of December. The recipient for each year will be announced at the National Pork Industry Forum, scheduled to take place in Chicago, Illinois from March 5-7, 2024. 

The Neil Dierks scholarship program complements the Lois Britt Memorial Pork Industry Scholarship, a program sponsored by the National Pork Industry Foundation in collaboration with the CME Group.  

Named after the late NPPC board member Lois Britt, this initiative annually grants $2,500 scholarships to 10 college undergraduates who intend to pursue careers in the pork industry. The NPPC administers this program, and the winners are revealed at the National Pork Industry Forum. 

To find complete eligibility and application requirements, please visit here. The application deadline for this year is December 31, 2023. For any questions about the scholarship, you can reach out to Lucy Russell, NPPC Manager of Producer Engagement, at 515-864-7983 or russelll@nppc.org. For more information on the Neil Dierks Scholarship and contributing to the National Pork Industry Foundation, visit the NPIF webpage.