This fall, nine exceptional graduate students will begin their journey as Real Pork Scholars, a prestigious program sponsored by the National Pork Board. During the next two years, these scholars will receive professional mentorship, build a strong peer network and undergo specialized training to effectively communicate technical information.

Program Focus and Objectives

The Real Pork Scholars program is structured around three core pillars:

  • Network Building: Scholars will cultivate connections with professional mentors and peers, enhancing their professional relationships.
  • Communications Training: Scholars will receive training to share research-based insights with non-research audiences, ensuring accurate and impactful communication.
  • Relevant Research: Scholars will engage in research that addresses current challenges in pork production, aligned with the industry’s We Care® Ethical Principles.

Real Pork Scholars Shaping the Future of the Swine Industry

The Real Pork Scholars program identifies outstanding students engaging in value-added experiences. The scholars are conducting academic work to positively advance U.S. pork production and empower emerging leaders to educate various audiences about the industry.

Meet the 2024 Real Pork Scholars Cohort

The 2024 cohort represents a diverse range of academic fields and institutions:

  • Rachel Self – production and monogastric nutrition, University of Missouri (Hometown: Nacogdoches, Texas)
  • Bianca Metallo – swine welfare and behavior, Texas Tech University (Hometown: Berkeley, California)
  • Michael Rezendes – animal science, Texas A&M University (Hometown: central California)
  • Caitlyn Wileman – swine nutrition, Iowa State University (Hometown: Janesville, Wisconsin)
  • Alexa Gormley – swine nutrition, North Carolina State University (Hometown: Marion, Iowa)
  • Katlyn McClellan – swine nutrition and physiology, South Dakota State University (Hometown: San Diego, California)
  • Sara Williams – swine nutrition and microbiomics, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities (Hometown: Northbrook, Illinois)
  • Ty Kim – swine nutrition and management, Kansas State University (Hometown: Hartwell, Georgia)
  • Madison “Maddie” Dvorak – agricultural leadership education, University of Florida (Hometown: Lakeland, Florida)

Throughout the program, these scholars will develop the skills to effectively communicate scientific research, addressing common questions about the pork industry related to environmental impact, public health, community engagement, animal welfare, food safety and more.

What’s Next for 2025?

As the 2024 cohort begins its work, NPB will start recruiting for the next class of Real Pork Scholars. To stay up to date on the latest news about the Real Pork Scholars, visit porkcheckoff.org and subscribe to the news from Pork Checkoff.