For more than 30 years, Neil Dierks devoted himself to US pork producers’ well-being. As CEO of the National Pork Producers Council, he encouraged, challenged, supported, and equipped members as they advocated for opportunities in trade as well as reasonable regulation. In times of trial and triumph, Neil provided insight born from experience as well as study. His servant’s heart, along with the tenacity necessary to ensure success, combined to benefit producers of all sizes and philosophies. Above all, Neil nurtured leadership for the pork industry, seeking and elevating talented persons with a variety of skills to serve as resources and decision-makers for today and tomorrow.
Neil’s 2021 retirement created an opportunity to honor his contribution to the US pork industry and legacy as a leader with the Neil Dierks Scholarship. Designed to support students seeking a graduate degree in a field related to the pork industry at a land grant university, this $5000 scholarship will be awarded to one individual, carrying on Neil’s mission to equip new leaders for the industry he served so well. The scholarship will be administered by the National Pork Industry Foundation with applications due each December, with the award made during the Pork Forum annually.
Please fill out the form below to make your online donation to fund the Neil Dierks Scholarship. You have the opportunity to choose either credit card or echeck for your contribution. Please contact Lucy Russell with questions about the scholarship - (515) 278-8012 or russelll@nppc.org. Please contact Megan Beach with questions about making your donation using this form - (515) 278-8012 or beachm@nppc.org.
Thank you!