Forkner to Join Livestock Industry Giants in Saddle and Sirloin Gallery
Everett Forkner, a respected leader, agent of change and role model for many, will soon receive the livestock industry’s highest award—induction into the prestigious Saddle and Sirloin Gallery. This award, established in 1903, serves to recognize giants in the livestock industry who have gone on to make livestock and the people in it better.
Forker is a graduate of the University of Missouri and was a member of Farmhouse Fraternity and the MU Livestock Judging Team. He lives in Richards, Mo., where he and his wife, Ruby, have spent decades improving livestock and championing many causes, including Forkner's role in establishing the Pork Quality Assurance (PQA) certification program in 1989 representing the U.S. pork industry's production standards.
"He has quietly but effectively served in the roles of breeder, leader, teacher, mentor and change agent. He is also known for his willingness to freely share his time, wisdom and leadership skills serving the greater swine and meat animal industries," the Missouri Pork Association said in a release.
Forkner served as president of the National Pork Board, as well as being a strong promoter and supporter of 4-H, FFA and collegiate livestock programs. His family has hosted thousands of students for judging workouts at their farm since 1961. Earlier this year he was inducted into the National Pork Producers Council Hall of Fame.
A significant part of Everett’s recognition is the establishment of two separate funds to further the education, communications and leadership skills for future generations, the release said. As Everett attributes a significant part of his success to the critical thinking and communications skills he developed as a member of the MU Livestock Judging Team, he has chosen to establish the Everett and Ruby Forkner Livestock Judging Fund at the University of Missouri. To date over $125,000 has been raised towards the goal of raising $250,000.
Additionally, the Forkner Family has generously agreed to establish the Forkner Family Visionary Leadership Fund to support future scholarship and leadership programs of the National Junior Swine Association. This fund will establish the long-term sustainability of NJSA leadership programs and represent the importance of mentorship and leadership development that is cherished by the Forkner Family.
For more information, visit www.nationalswine.com or www.cafnr.missouri.edu.
Everett’s induction into this prestigious group of livestock leaders is scheduled to be held at the Gobbler's Roost, 3 Cedars Event Center, 24327 E. Old Town Road, Nevada, Missouri, 64772 beginning at 5 p.m. CT on Sunday, November 15. A limited number of tickets, which include the meal and support for the Forkner Family Visionary Leadership Fund, are $100 per person. All reservations are due no later than November 8, 2020. Click here for more information.
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